The following associations have released a series of technical sector guidance documents to further support employers and workers:

• Infrastructure Health and Safety Association
• Public Service Health and Safety Association
• Workplace Safety North

The following will help reduce workplace exposures to respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 (coronavirus):

• wash your hands often and when visibly dirty for 15 seconds
• cover your cough or sneeze with your arm or a tissue, throw the tissue in the garbage and wash your hands
• avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• stay two metres (six feet) apart from others
• avoid contact with people who are sick
• stay home if you are sick

Workplaces (employers):

• post physical distance requirements of two metres (six feet) at the entrance of the establishment and throughout
• install floor markings to promote physical distancing
• protect employees from patrons by using screens or barriers
• emphasize staying home when sick, respiratory etiquette, and hand hygiene by all employees
• provide hand sanitizing stations at entrances where possible and promote good hand hygiene
• use passive and active screening measures such as posting signage or asking questions about exposure and symptoms
• consider conducting employee screening and temperature checks at entrances
  • learn more about screening and guidance for essential workplaces (Ministry of Health)
• perform routine environmental cleaning and clean high touch surfaces often including countertops, handles, light switches, keypads, touchscreens and public areas
  • learn about cleaning and disinfection for public settings (Public Health Ontario) and guidance for food premises (Ministry of Health)
• not require a sick leave note as that will put added pressure on limited health care service:
  • an employee is not required to provide a medical note if they need to take a leave due to COVID-19 (per the Employment Standards Amendment Act (Infectious Disease Emergencies), 2020)
• reduce the number of employees working at the same time
• limit the number of patrons in the store
• discourage workers from sharing phones, desks, offices, tools and equipment
• consider the use of non-medical masks
• take advantage of virtual options and advise employees to work from home, if possible
• have plans for business continuity in the event of prolonged staff absences
• advise employees to avoid all non-essential travel:
  • learn about emerging travel health notices and travel advisories (Government of Canada) and be familiar with information for travelers returning to Canada (Public Health Agency of Canada)

Source: Public Health Sudbury & Districts