Construction spared from Peel and Toronto COVID-19 lockdown

lockdown

Construction activity won’t be affected by new lockdowns put in place in Ontario in an attempt to curb the growing numbers of COVID-19 cases.

On Nov. 20, the Ontario government announced Peel Region and Toronto would move into the “Grey Lockdown” phase of the province’s Keeping Ontario Safe and Open Framework.

The Lockdown comes into effect on Monday, Nov. 23 at 12:01 am.  

“My friends, I’ve been clear on this: the situation is extremely serious and further action is required to avoid the worst-case scenario,” Premier Doug Ford said.  

While many businesses will see wide-scale measures and restrictions, including closures, construction will largely continue in Peel and Toronto.

“Manufacturing, agriculture, supply chain and most construction can continue,” said Christine Elliott, Ontario’s Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.

Although construction will continue through the Peel and Toronto lockdown, employers are asked to place an increased focus on health and safety in order to keep job sites open.

All measures taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19 should be done in compliance with requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and associated regulations and public health directives issued by the Chief Medical Officer of Health.

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The province offers these tips to help prevent the spread of germs:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Sneeze and cough into your sleeve.
  • If you use a tissue, discard immediately and wash your hands afterward.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home if you are sick.
  • Avoid high-touch areas, where possible, or ensure you clean your hands after.
  • Where possible, wear gloves when interacting with high-touch areas. Do not touch your face with gloved hands. Take care when removing gloves. Ensure you wash your hands after removing them.
  • Wash your clothes as soon as you get home.
  • If you are ill: notify your supervisor immediately, complete the self-assessment and follow the instructions you get.