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Returning to the Workplace After Easing of COVID-19 Restrictions

When returning to the workplace after COVID-19 restrictions have eased, some workers may need extra time and supports to adjust. It’s important to communicate throughout the process. Provide information in different ways, get feedback, and encourage discussion.

Additional resources on returning to the workplace post-pandemic:

Returning to the Workplace After Easing of COVID-19 Restrictions Infographic and its text description

Infographic: Returning to the Workplace After Easing of COVID-19 Restrictions

Description: Returning to the Workplace After Easing of COVID-19 Restrictions

Return to the workplace safely by following these steps:

Don’t let your guard down

Continue to follow the direction of your local public health authority and maintain these measures:

  • Wear a mask
  • Maintain good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette
  • Practice physical distancing
  • Clean and disinfect
  • Screen and test

Assess the risks

Before workers return, evaluate the workplace:

  • Number of people
  • Job tasks
  • Physical distance of interactions
  • High-touch surfaces and items
  • Other health and safety hazards

Consider the building

  • Inspect the workplace, including ventilation, fire code requirements, safety systems, and hazards caused by prolonged shutdown (mould, stagnant water, pests etc.)

Consider worker factors

  • Accommodation needs
  • Stress and mental health
  • Fatigue
  • Impairment

Develop a COVID-19 safety plan

With your health and safety committee or representative, develop and implement a COVID-19 safety plan.

Multiple layers of protection are best. Include both public health measures and workplace health and safety controls to minimize risks.

  • Create or update policies
    • Sick leave
    • Hybrid workforce
    • Responding to cases of COVID-19
    • Vaccination and testing requirements
  • Decrease exposures
    • Allow remote work
    • Hold virtual meetings
    • Close high-risk services and spaces
    • Avoid unnecessary travel
  • Adjust the workplace
    • Maximize ventilation
    • Separate workstations and install physical barriers
    • Use contactless devices and services

Communicate and train

Communicate changes and provide training to workers on policies and procedures.

Evaluate

Continuously evaluate your COVID-19 safety plan, update, and recommunicate as needed.

Document last updated on: 2021-09-24