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COVID-19

WorkSafe outlines safety rules for B.C.’s reopening

May 15, 2020 | 1:59 PM

VICTORIA — WorkSafe BC has issued industry-specific guidance for the next phase of B.C.’s restart program.

The agency said every employer is required to have a COVID-19 safety plan that assesses the risk of exposure at their worksite and implements measures to keep their workers safe.

“We’ve developed both general and industry-specific materials in consultation with industry and labour stakeholders to ensure they are practical and understandable for workplaces in each sector,” Al Johnson, head of prevention services, said.

You can find out the details on the WorkSafe BC website.

The guidelines cover the following sectors:

  • Restaurants, cafes, pubs
  • Salons and personal services
  • Real estate
  • Arts and cultural facilities (museums, art galleries, and libraries)
  • Retail
  • Education K-12
  • Parks and outdoor spaces
  • Health services
  • In-person counselling
  • Office space

Sector-specific guidelines for child care and recreation and sports will be available in the coming days.

WorkSafeBC says employers do not need to submit their safety plan for review or approval but prevention officers will begin a province-wide verification and inspection campaign to ensure employers have their plans in place and are keeping their workers safe.

“The planning process should involve workers for their input to ensure their concerns are heard and addressed,” Johnson said.