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Ontario Government Now Requires Business Owners to Pre-Screen Employees for COVID-19 Daily

From: Leanne Standryk

 

The Government of Ontario introduced a further amendment to O.Reg. 364/20 on September 25, 2020 which became effective September 26, 2020 at 12:01 a.m.  The amendment introduces a requirement that: the person responsible for a business or organization that is open shall operate the business or organization in compliance with the advice, recommendations and instructions issued by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health on screening individuals.

 

On September 25, 2020, the Ontario Ministry of Health introduced a COVID-19 Screening Tool for Workplaces (Business and Organizations).

 

http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/coronavirus/docs/workplace_screening_tool_guidance.pdf

 

The Tool provides basic information only and contains recommendations for business for COVID-19 screening per O.Reg. 364/20.  The Tool is to be implemented for workers (intended to include students, contractors or volunteers that conduct business or related activities) or essential visitors (individuals providing a service in the establishment whoa re not employees or patrons of the establishment ie. delivery, maintenance, contract workers).  The Tool also does not include patrons entering a workplace (e.g., customers entering a grocery store, restaurant, bar or other food or drink establishment). It also excludes emergency services or other first responders entering a workplace for emergency purposes. Further, essential workers who travel outside for Canada for work purposes should not be excluded entry on this basis alone.

 

As a result, effective September 26, 2020 workplaces in Ontario are required to proactively screen employees for COVID-19 symptoms prior to entry into the workplace every day the employee reports to the workplace.

 

Should you have questions regarding this most recent amendment it is recommended that you reach out to a member of our labour and employment law group at 905-641-1551.

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