The Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit is seeing a significant increase in new COVID-19 infections in the past weeks, particularly in workplaces. This has resulted in the closures of businesses due to staff being in isolation. They are asking businesses and organizations to maintain strong public health measures to help prevent further spread of COVID-19:
- Encourage unvaccinated employees to become vaccinated and for those who are eligible for a booster to do so. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective.
- Actively screen employees daily and prior to entering the work place.
- Employees must stay home if unwell. Employees should get tested for COVID-19 even if they have mild symptoms.
- Physical distancing (2M/6FT) is still the most effective way to control the spread of COVID 19, configure your workspace to allow for physical distancing including the lunch/staff or locker rooms.
- Ventilation systems in the workplace must be properly maintained. Consider opening windows to allow for additional fresh air to enter the workspace i.e. kitchen, lunch rooms etc.
- Masks must be worn while indoors and within 2M/6ft distance of any other employee.
Masks and eye protection must be worn when coming into contact with the public while their masks are removed i.e. eating, drinking, facial procedure etc. - Redeploy workers to another job where they can maintain physical distance (2M/6ft) or are behind an impermeable barrier at all times if they have a medical condition that prevents them from wearing a mask.
- Ensure impermeable barriers are installed in locations such as at the cash register or service counters.
- Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces as often as necessary to maintain hygiene.
- Promote proper hand hygiene and cough/sneeze etiquette.
- A workplace safety plan is required. Guide to developing your COVID-19 workplace safety plan
Slowing the spread of COVID-19 will protect workplaces and our community and may prevent future shut downs or more restrictive government regulations. For more information about COVID-19 including surveillance information, vaccines and testing locations please visit the health unit website.
