Winnipeg Transit will be giving operators and inspectors non-medical masks for use while on shift.

The city says that the masks are made by a local apparel company and are being offered to transit employees who work in public settings where social distancing is difficult to maintain.

Masks are being recommended by Canadian public health officials as an additional measure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Manitoba public health has noted that while wearing a non-medical mask may help the wearer to help reduce the spread of the virus it offers little protection from contracting it.

Transit says that Winnipeg Transit Plus (formally Handi-transit) contractors will be offered the masks at cost.

© News4.ca 2020