WorkSafeBC expects employers to be taking all reasonable steps to comply with the Public Health Officer (PHO) orders and requirements to protect their workers in addition to their responsibilities under the Workers Compensation Act and Occupational Health and Safety Regulation.
Workplace inspections play a critical role in ensuring workplaces are healthy and safe. During this situation, WorkSafeBC will continue their work with employers and workers to help them take the necessary steps to protect those who remain at work, including preventative measures to slow the progression of COVID-19. Wherever possible, WorkSafeBC will explore alternative approaches when connecting with workplaces (employer and worker representative), including remote inspections.
WorkSafeBC recommends the use of this new guide Preventing exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace. This guide contains questions employers should ask themselves to better understand the health and safety concerns in the workplace raised by COVID-19. Topics covered include:
- Identifying exposure hazards and developing measures to control exposure
- Controlling the number of people on site
- Prohibition of workers who are sick and those returning from outside Canada