According to a Feb. 17 news release, B.C. public health officer (PHO) Dr. Bonnie Henry has made the adjustment to the Provincial Health Officer Order on Workplace Safety “to support the transition of employees back into the workplace.”
Under the old rules, employers were made “to allow workers to work from their private residence, if possible, given the nature of the work involved, unless the employer had an operational requirement to have the worker at the workplace.”
The release goes on to state that all workplaces must continue to have COVID-19 safety plans in place, and that Henry’s “Face Coverings Order continues to apply to some workplaces.”
“The Province and the PHO recognize that every workplace is different,” it states. “Many workplaces will be able to transition to in-person work again quickly. Others may wish to continue with remote or hybrid models. Workplaces and businesses are encouraged to choose the option that works best for them.”
Henry’s move comes as B.C. lifts a handful of restrictions.
This week, restrictions were eased on personal gatherings, organized gatherings and events, bars, nightclubs and restaurants, as well as exercise and fitness facilities and adult sports tournaments, according to a separate news release.
“Capacity limits will return to normal,” it states.
B.C.’s vaccine passport policy, however, will be kept in place, as will indoor masking requirements and COVID-19 safety plans.
“With more than 90 [per cent] of eligible B.C. residents vaccinated with their second dose, British Columbia will transition to a sustainable COVID-19 management plan focusing on vaccination, self-monitoring and specific actions to protect those most at risk,” it goes on to state.
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