Public health risk analysis used to justify restrictions no longer focused on decreased transmission of COVID-19
Northwest Territories is easing some COVID-19 restrictions for workers in the territory, following the changes to public health orders announced by the chief public health officer (CPHO) last week.
Effective March 1, proof of vaccination, testing and enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE) will only be required certain employees and contractors, including those:
work with vulnerable members of the public in the healthcare, education and corrections sectors
- work at a federally regulated worksite
- other worksites where there are other vaccination policies or requirements
GNWT employees in these categories who have not submitted proof of vaccination are required to adhere to PPE use and COVID-19 testing as directed by their department or agency, according to the government.
“Based on the advice of the CPHO, we are confident that we can start to reconsider some workplace processes and rules,” said Caroline Wawzonek, minister of finance.
“However, I encourage everyone to continue to remain cautious, conduct our own risk assessments, and continue to engage in healthy practices. A vaccinated public service is still the best way to help protect all of our residents and communities, allowing us to provide the service and support NWT residents rely on us for.”
Accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis for medical reasons or based on protected grounds under the Human Rights Act.
The deputy heads of each department and agency are responsible for the development, implementation and operation of departmental vaccination guidelines and procedures, according to the government.
Last month, a Quebec court denied the appeal of 80 caregivers and residents for unvaccinated caregivers to be given injunction allowing them to enter nursing homes without showing proof of vaccination.
Also, two Canadian premiers along with 16 U.S. state governors called for the vaccination mandate for truck drivers crossing the border to be stopped.
Northwest Territories has also mandated that just the same workers listed above be required to wear PPE, effective Feb. 28. Employees in these categories who have not provided proof of vaccination will adhere to PPE use requirements as directed by their department or agency.
Employees who have not submitted proof of vaccination and had their proof of vaccination verified:
- will be provided with self-administered COVID-19 testing kits and will be required to provide the GNWT with a confirmation that they will adhere to testing protocols as directed;
- will be informed of consequences for non-compliance with the Policy;
- will complete self-administered, at-home testing as required by their department or agency; and
- will inform their supervisor of their compliance with testing as and when required by their department or agency.
On Feb. 28, Nova Scotia eliminated the requirement to show proof of full vaccination before people can participate in non-essential, discretionary events and activities.
