Chamber_ResourceGuide_ThompsonOkanagan_August9_2021

CRITICAL RESOURCES 02 |
Vaccine Information
VACCINE CHALLENGES AND LEGAL RESOURCES
Visit these sites for current information on legal and regulatory
obligations related to workforce and employment matters that are
critical to protecting your business and your workers.
Employment Standards and Workplace Safety The law in BC sets standards for
payment, compensation and working conditions in most workplaces. The standards
promote open communication, fair treatment and work-life balance for workers.
The Law Foundation of British Columbia hosts a robust, multi-lingual site dedicated to
COVID-19 information.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has a web page devoted to resources.
See this article from Filion Wakely Thorup Angeletti on the ongoing vaccine debate.
Also see the Human Rights Commissioner’s Vaccination Guidance.
THE CHALLENGES AND IMPLICATIONS FACING BUSINESSES
Click for more
Vaccine related
updates
Currently in British Columbia there is no specific legislation requiring workers to get
vaccinated. However, please note that this will evolve. See “Can an employer require
employees to get the COVID-19 vaccine?”
The BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) is the most comprehensive source
for COVID-19 data and vaccination information. Visit the site to learn how to protect
yourself, your family and your community.
WorkSafeBC posts additional FAQs, grouped under various topic headings.
The Province of British Columbia has posted orders, notices and guidance
information. In a Provincial State of Emergency, the Provincial Health Officer can make
orders as needed. You must follow the orders. The Province also has a dedicated
information line at 1-888-COVID19.
Most adults in BC have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. This has raised
questions about whether an employer can ask if their workers are vaccinated. Whether
a person has been vaccinated is considered sensitive, personal health information.
Adam LaRoche, a lawyer with Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP suggests that employers
should consider three things before asking their workers about their vaccination status.
1. The realistic risk posed by COVID-19 to the workplace.
2. Any accommodations that would have to be made for protected grounds under
human rights legislation, such as a disability that makes them high risk for side
effects or religious beliefs.
A THOMPSON | OKANAGAN RESOURCE GUIDE FOR SMALL BUSINESS RESILIENCY | Copyright © 2021 – BC Chamber of Commerce
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