Frequently Asked Questions

Source: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/documents/ncov/ipac/2020/09/covid-19-hvac-systems-in-buildings.pdf?la=en  

In general, while there is plausibility of COVID-19 transmission by inhaled virus in air particularly in crowded, poorly ventilated settings, there is limited epidemiological evidence that this occurs. Specifically, the overall scientific evidence does not indicate that transmission of COVID-19 occurs via HVAC systems at this time. Although viral RNA has been detected in air and HVAC systems, the viability of virus in or infection from air circulated through HVAC systems has not been demonstrated. 

Enhancing outdoor air ventilation and good maintenance of HVAC systems will complement other public health measures to reduce COVID-19 transmission, e.g., screening, self-isolation when sick, physical distancing, hand hygiene, respiratory source control, environmental cleaning and disinfection 

Good ventilation is important in indoor environments for the general health and comfort of occupants. Optimization of HVAC systems can be done on the basis of best practices for ventilation, as COVID-19 transmission from HVAC systems has not been observed. In general, avoiding stagnant air conditions and ventilating indoor environments with fresh outdoor air, whether by increasing the outdoor air ratio of the HVAC system or by opening windows, will dilute exhaled air from the occupants including any infectious particles. Thus, most guidance encourage ventilation with outdoor air, avoiding recirculation as far as practically possible and ensuring clean filters  

Source: https://www.worksafebc.com/en/resources/about-us/covid-19/general-ventilation-and-air-circulation-covid-19-faq?lang=en  

It is a requirement for employers to ensure that heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are designed, operated, and maintained as per standards and specifications for ongoing comfort for workers (Part 4 of the OHS Regulation).  

It depends on your risk assessment. We cannot rely only on one type of control, i.e. Masks. Factoring in the hierarchy of controls, a combination of controls are encouraged. We all know masks are not 100% effective, thus having other controls such as occupancy limits, hygiene protocols, in combination of masks can create a bigger impact in reducing the risk of transmission. Carry out a risk assessment for this scenario, and determine what other controls are warranted, and consider what is the acceptable risk to your organization.

The hazard rating assigned by WorkSafeBC should be considered the minimum acceptable hazard rating for workplaces of employers assigned to that CU, with the following exception, multiple-employer workplaces where the work is phased and not all phases have the same hazards present. E.g., A prime contractor in residential construction classification unit 721027 (House or Other Wood Frame General Contracting, Construction, or Renovation Work) with hazard rating of high is providing first aid services when the only work being conducted is painting with hazard rating of medium – a hazard rating of medium may be used. No other subtrades must be conducting any other work at the time of the painting when the medium hazard rating is used. A separate first aid assessment must be documented using this lower hazard rating. If multiple employers are doing work at the same time, the hazard rating of the prime contractor must be used - it is the prime contract’s responsibility to coordinate the safety at the worksite which includes provisions for first aid.

You will have to carry out a risk assessment to determine which is going to be the least hazardous to your employee(s). Factor in hazards such as weather, distance, driver experience as well as the risk of transmission.

Carry out a risk assessment and see what can be implemented. Masks and face shields are recommended anywhere physical distancing is not possible. To reduce risk further, consider taping a flexible piece of clear plastic between the front and rear seats, to isolate passengers from the driver (ensure the driver's vision is not obstructed for driving). Disinfect contact surfaces of the vehicle, when occupants change.

Carry out a risk assessment and see what can be implemented. For example, respiratory protection, face shields, or even taping a flexible piece of clear plastic between the front and rear seats (ensuring vision is not obstructed for driving) may help reduce the risk if it is not possible for employees to use separate vehicles. Ensure that work vehicles are thoroughly disinfected between shifts or use by different employees.

See the video answer to this question.

Unfortunately, Fraser Health does not have capacity to provide release from isolation letters.

At this time, health authorities do not have the capacity to provide confirmation in writing that an employee is COVID-19-free.

Instruct staff not to touch water bottles to the water cooler.

The Alliance is collecting information from employers actively seeking immunization for their workers and will share this information with the health regions as they request it to support their programs. To register your interest in a future phase of workplace immunizations, please send an email to [email protected] with your company name, production facility address(es), number of employees at each facility, and key contact name, and email, and phone for each facility.
The Alliance is collecting information from employers actively seeking immunization for their workers and will share this information with the health regions as they request it to support their programs. To register your interest in a future phase of workplace immunizations, please send an email to [email protected] with your company name, production facility address(es), number of employees at each facility, and key contact name, and email, and phone for each facility.