While Public Health Ontario has confirmed that the risk of contracting Coronavirus remains low within the province, it is important that employers are prepared.

Currently in Canada, the coronavirus has only been acquired as a result of travel to affected areas in China. Travelers returning from China are screened at Canadian airports and individuals that are not feeling well are directed to medical care and subsequently contacted by public health and health care when necessary.

If an employee at your organization recently travelled to China or is returning from China in the near future, it is imperative that the employee is directed to stay at home for a quarantine period of 14 days to reduce the chances of the virus being spread. We also recommend that prior to their return to work, you obtain medical clearance. This will ensure the continuous health and safety of your employees.

In an effort to keep your workplace healthy, we recommend you encourage your employees to take the following precautionary measures:

1.      Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand-sanitizer
2.      Keep shared surface areas clean. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of these surfaces can help.
3.      Stay at home when sick. Keeping the office healthy should be a priority for everyone!