The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) has released its first version of COVID-19 standardized protocols for construction sites.
In a news release, the CCA explained construction companies must remain aware of rapidly changing best practices and integrate with the CCA Standardized Protocols instructions, best practices and requirements from Health Canada and local public health authorities as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds.
“Our position is that compliant sites should be open and those that cannot consistently comply with measures and guidelines of public health authorities should shut down,” said Mary Van Buren, president of the CCA.
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Today, CCA is releasing its first version of its guidelines for job sites during the pandemic.
The standardized protocols outline the best practices and a consistent national approach for employers and employees to follow in order to protect themselves and the public at large and help minimize the spread of the coronavirus so that work can continue safely.
The protocols include measures on prevention, detection and rapid response based on information and recommendations from respected public health authorities.
As the situation continues to evolve and new best practices emerge, CCA will be updating the document, and publishing new versions as required.
CCA also plans to keep an open dialogue with stakeholders to ensure the industry remains proactive to any emerging risks.
CCA welcomes the support and endorsement of these protocols by any and all members of the construction industry and its allied sectors.
The objectives of the Standardized Protocols are to:
- Prioritize the health and safety of workers and of their surrounding communities.
- Apply recommendations and best practices from federal, provincial and municipal public health authorities to construction site procedures.
- Establish and maintain a common COVID-19 Pandemic Response Plan across construction sites.
- Foster open communication amongst stakeholders and ensure a respectful work environment.
To read the full document, visit: COVID-19 Standardized Protocols for All Canadian Construction Sites
The construction sector is one of Canada’s largest employers and a major contributor to the country’s economic success.
The industry, 70 per cent of which is made up of small and medium enterprises, employs more than 1.5 million Canadians and contributes 7 per cent of Canada’s GDP.
