IRCC has just issued important updates to its COVID-19 health guidelines. Below, you will find the message that was just sent announcing the changes.
Health Canada has updated their Public Service Occupational Health Program in terms of workplace preventive practices for COVID-19. Here is an overview of these changes:
- Masks are now only required to be worn in higher risk workplaces, where large numbers of people either live or circulate (for example, health care settings and congregate living facilities). However, we encourage all IRCC teams, no matter where they work, to create a mask-friendly environment so that people feel comfortable wearing masks or respirators should they choose to do so.
- Physical distancing is no longer required. Since this practice provides an additional layer of protection when practiced indoors where the space or operations allow, we encourage you to adopt distancing where possible and desirable.
- COVID-19 – If you have come into close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you may continue to enter the office or worksite if you are free of symptoms and if you have not been told to quarantine by the local public health authority. If you have tested positive for COVID-19 with either a rapid antigen test or a PCR test, you should not return to the office or worksite for at least 5 days. When you do return to the workplace, you must not have any symptoms (except for a residual cough) and you should also follow any local public health requirements as they apply.
As we return to the office in the final phases of the implementation of our hybrid workplace, we still want to ensure we create a safe and healthy environment in which people feel protected, comfortable and respected. We encourage you to initiate conversations with your managers and colleagues to determine what feels right for you and your teams, and practice preventative measures at your level of comfort and with respect for your colleagues in mind.
We thank you for your cooperation in helping us to create a safe and inviting workplace for all.