Assessing Risks and Adjusting Controls

To control the spread of respiratory infectious diseases (RIDs), workplaces need to be vigilant by continuously assessing the risks and adjusting control measures appropriately. Follow guidance from reliable sources such as your local public health authority.

Assessing Risks and Adjusting Controls

Assessing Risks and Adjusting Controls

Description: Assessing Risks and Adjusting Controls

The risk posed by respiratory infectious diseases (RIDs) can evolve over time and workplaces must adapt to protect workers. Keep adjusting your control measures to match the level of risk.

Follow guidance from your local public health authority and stay informed about:

Factors that can affect risk
How to know if the risk may be high
Community spread
 Seasonally (usually fall and winter) or when there are many reported:
  • Cases
  • Hospitalizations
  • Absences from work due to illness
The type of respiratory infectious disease in the community
 A respiratory infectious disease that can:
  • Result in serious illness or death
  • Spread easily
Vulnerable population within workforce
 Workers who are:
  • Older, especially over 65 years of age
  • Pregnant
  • Have a chronic medical condition or weakened immune system
  • Not vaccinated (if applicable)
Workplace setting
 Working near others (especially when interactions are long and frequent) and in indoor settings that are:
  • Small
  • Crowded
  • Poorly ventilated

Adjust your control measures to match the level of risk.

Consider these control measures:

When risk is lower
  • Using passive screening methods
  • Ventilating and filtering indoor air
  • Encouraging sick workers to stay home
  • Encouraging and practising proper hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette
  • Regularly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch objects and surfaces
When risk is higher
  • Promoting remote work
  • Actively screening individuals before allowing entry into the workplace
  • Encouraging sick workers to stay home
  • Recommending that well-constructed, well-fitting respirators or masks are worn
  • Recommending vaccination, if available
For further information: canada.ca/respiratory-viruses.

Document last updated on: 2023-12-15