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Southwestern Public Health’s Medical Officer of Health has issued a letter to all workplaces in Elgin County, Oxford County, and the City of St. Thomas recommending vaccination policies to protect their employees and the public from COVID-19.
The proposal comes during the fourth wave of the pandemic, with 82 active cases currently reported by the health unit, the majority of which are people under 40 who are not yet vaccinated.
“Workplaces have worked very hard over the past 18 months to help control the spread of COVID-19, and we appreciate all you have done,” says Dr. Joyce Lock. “Now we are dealing with a very aggressive Delta variant, and this is one further step we can take to protect each other, prevent outbreaks, and prevent more restrictive measures such as closures. Our community’s recovery depends on using all the tools available to us.”
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, employers are obligated to maintain a safe work environment and take every precaution reasonable to protect their employees. A vaccination policy is a recommended precaution to protect workplaces and employees – including staff, volunteers, on-site contractors, and other personnel – from the impact of this virus.
The health unit distributed the letter of recommendation to local Chambers of Commerce and Business Improvement Associations electronically for their membership. All registered businesses will receive a paper copy via mail by the end of this week.
Southwestern Public Health has detailed guidance to support workplaces with putting vaccination policies in place at www.swpublichealth.ca/WorkplacesCOVID19. A sample workplace policy template to adapt is included.
“I urge us all to work together to make workplaces and indoor settings as safe as possible. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, and is one of the best ways to protect your workplace and its staff from ongoing illnesses and closures related to this virus.”
Media Contact:
Megan Cornwell
Communications Manager
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