Insights Header image
Insights Header image
Insights Header image

BC Lifting COVID Mandates

March 10, 2022 Employment Bulletin 2 minute read

Earlier today, the BC Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry announced significant changes to the Provincial COVID-19 mandates as part of what she called a “balance and transitioned approach” to take place over the next few weeks.

These changes signify a significant easing of restrictions for employers and businesses and relate to the lifting of both mask and vaccine mandates, restrictions on capacity for worship services, visitation to long-term care and seniors’ assisted living facilities and requirements in the workplace.

Face Coverings

Effective March 11, 2022, the Face Coverings Order will be repealed in its entirety. This means that masks will no longer be mandatory in low- to medium-risk public indoor spaces, including indoor common spaces in workplaces (as currently required under the Workplace Safety Order). Masks will continue to be encouraged on public transit and BC Ferries, and any areas where social distancing is difficult. Individual businesses, event organizers and employers may continue requiring masks on their premises if they wish.

BC Vaccine Card

Effective April 8, 2022, the BC Vaccine Card will no longer be required. This means that proof of vaccination will no longer be required to access non-essential businesses, events and services.

Individual businesses and event organizers may continue requiring proof of vaccination for entry to their premises if they wish.

COVID-19 Safety Plans

In our article dated January 25, 2020, we provided an update regarding the Workplace Safety Order, which required all BC workplaces have a COVID-19 Safety Plan in place. Effective April 8, 2022, workplaces will no longer be required to have a COVID-19 Safety Plan and may revert to following the general communicable disease prevention guidance from WorkSafeBC.

We will continue to monitor closely any changes relating to COVID-19 restrictions for employers, and report more details as they become available. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding these changes and how they may effect your business.

by Dianne Rideout and Kristen Shaw (Articled Student)

A Cautionary Note

The foregoing provides only an overview and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are cautioned against making any decisions based on this material alone. Rather, specific legal advice should be obtained.

© McMillan LLP 2022

Insights (5 Posts)View More

Featured Insight

A Shopping Cart of Competition Law Changes

The Government announced amendments to the Competition Act as part of its announcement regarding combatting escalating grocery prices.

Read More
Sep 18, 2023
Featured Insight

CRA Audit Requirements: Can a Taxpayer Contest Unreasonable Deadlines?

When the CRA demands information or documents within an unreasonable period, what options are available? A recent decision of the FCA offers some guidance.

Read More
Sep 18, 2023
Featured Insight

Deadline for Federally Regulated Employers to Provide Existing Employees with Employment Statements Fast Approaching

Amendments to the Canada Labour Code require federally regulated employers to provide existing employees with employment statements by October 7, 2023.

Read More
Sep 18, 2023
Featured Insight

New “Safety Index” for Heavy Vehicles to Be Developed by Quebec

The Quebec Standards Bureau is set to develop and publish by November 2024 a safety index for heavy vehicles to protect vulnerable road users.

Read More
Sep 13, 2023
Featured Insight

Expansion of OSFI’s Powers to Supervise Non-Financial Risks: Compliance Challenges for FRFIs

On September 6, 2023, OSFI issued a letter to industry outlining its steps to supervise emerging non-financial risks.

Read More
Sep 12, 2023