With the warmer weather upon us, a temporary exception to SOP 03.02.17 – Uniforms is in effect for staff assigned to Operations, Community Paramedicine, Materials & Equipment and Education & Development only:

• When assigned to a call and/or during vehicle/equipment cleaning, staff that intend to wear PPE, inclusive of mask, eye protection, gloves and gown will be permitted to remove their tactical uniform shirt prior to donning PPE, provided they are wearing an unmarked navy blue T-shirt undergarment.
• Once PPE has been doffed, staff must return to wearing the tactical uniform shirt per SOP 03.02.17 – Uniforms at the earliest opportunity (i.e., immediately after doffing and performing hand hygiene), and before proceeding with any other duties. 

This temporary exception to SOP 03.02.17 will remain in place until further notice.

As stock becomes available, a maximum of three (3) T-shirts will be issued upon request to a Superintendent.

APR Respirators

The Air Purifying Respirator (APR) is the recommended primary mask when anticipating high-risk procedures (i.e., performing an AGMP or when using the Laerdal^® portable suction unit). Paramedics should have a disposable N95 mask (e.g., Pleats Plus^®) available to them on all calls. 

Staff are reminded to perform a seal check after donning the APR. Staff experiencing APR mask loosening or slipping should move to a safe space and adjust the APR. If the adjustment is unsuccessful, change to a disposable mask. Staff should contact the SSC (416-338-2700) to report any suspected, or confirmed PPE breach.

If needed, arrangements can be made to meet with a Clinical Superintendent to review APR fit and resolve any identified issues.

Safety Vests and Gowns

Paramedics should continue to wear their reflective vests over their gowns in situations indicated by SOP 03.03.1 – Safety Practices.

Safety vests can be cleaned using the wipes provided. Staff are reminded to doff the vests appropriately while wearing gloves and safety eyewear to minimize risk of infection. The same level of care should be taken when cleaning the vests after the call. 

If you have any questions, please contact your Superintendent.

Sincerely,

(Original signed by)
Leo Tsang