***November 19, 2020 – UPDATE – Dr. Bonnie Henry, Provincial Health Officer, announced various increased measures to curb the spread of Covid-19 in the Province. Click here to see how it affects your business.
“Every employer in BC is required to have a COVID-19 safety plan that assesses the risk of exposure at their workplace and implements measures to keep their workers safe.” – WorkSafeBC
Why a COVID-19 Safety Plan is Needed
Developing and implementing a COVID-19 Safety Plan in your workplace that outlines specific guidelines, policies, and procedures will assist in the reduction of COVID-19 transmission, which will keep the community safe. Additionally, WorkSafe BC requires employers to develop and implement an up to date COVID-19 Safety Plan and conduct regular health checks.
What to Do
- Assess the risks at your workplace and record any unsafe conditions that require fixing. You can do this by conducting a walk through of your workplace and involving other important individuals (employees, health officers/experts) to help with assessing risk.
- Correct any unsafe conditions immediately based on the risk assessment conducted. Use “The Hierarchy of Controls ” as indicated on WorkSafe BC’s website.
- Develop a Safety Plan that is practical and effective that includes all protocols, policies, guidelines, daily health check requirements (see No. 5 below) for your workplace. Also, review the industry specific information included on WorkSafe BC’s website.
- Implement the Safety Plan you developed by communicating it to your workers and visitors. It is important that you communicate the Safety Plan via email, verbally and by posting posters. Posting the Safety Plan in various areas of the workplace will notify staff and visitors of the procedures and guidelines.
- Ensure each worker conducts a daily health check prior to coming into work. Have visitors also conduct a health check prior to entering your place of business. Your employees and visitors should provide a written, online, or verbal confirmation that the health check was completed. The self assessment requirement should be made part of your Safety Plan. Furthermore, have an entry check poster for visitors.
- Keep up to date on new orders, notices, guidelines and update the Safety Plan accordingly.
Please feel free to contact our office and speak with a lawyer directly to assist with the development of a safety plan.
Guides and Resources:
WorkSafe BC:
Ministerial Order:
Order of the Provincial Health Officer
**Please note that this information is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or create a solicitor-client relationship. For more information or assistance with a Covid-19 Safety Plan please contact our office to speak with a lawyer directly.
