The Northwestern Health Unit is cracking down on businesses not following public health rules.
New workplace protocols have to be followed as of today.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kit Young Hoon says all employees and staff must pass a COVID-19 screen before entering the workplace.
Anyone with even one symptom and has failed the self-assessment must stay home from work, self-isolate and get tested.
Other measures include ensuring workers can physically distance two metres. If they can’t, they are to wear appropriate personal protective equipment. Masks also have to be worn indoors at all times.
Management must also maintain a log of employees working so health officials can follow up on high-risk close contacts if there is a case.
The health unit will also issue fines to workplaces that allow employees to attend work while symptomatic or while they should be self-isolating.
Dr. Young Hoon says our area has seen an increase in the number of workplace-related cases and outbreaks in recent weeks.
She notes some individuals are attending work with symptoms, and increasing rates will only lengthen the time current public health restrictions are applied.
Dr. Young Hoon urges workplaces to support employees as much as possible during these times.
For more information on the workplace instructions, visit Workplace Instructions.
