As the Covid 19 pandemic is in its second wave, we all need to be mindful of what the health professionals are saying and follow their advice. We all need to be respectful and considerate of others, as well as taking responsibility for ourselves.
Should you be exhibiting any symptoms of Covid 19, under no circumstances should you be going to work. Call 811 and follow the direction of the health authority. If you are directed to self-isolate, you must inform your supervisor.
Here are the most common symptoms: (source: Government of Canada self-assessment website)
Most common symptoms:
fever
dry cough
tiredness
Less common symptoms:
aches and pains
sore throat
diarrhea
conjunctivitis
headache
loss of taste or smell
a rash on skin, or discoloration of fingers or toes
Serious symptoms:
difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
chest pain or pressure
loss of speech or movement
If 811 or any public health authority has advised you to self-isolate, you need to follow their advice and inform Canada Post.
If you have had a Covid-19 test and are awaiting results, you must wait for those results, and get clearance from the public health authority and inform Canada Post before returning to work.
If you have been told by the public health authority to self-isolate, you need to inform your supervisor right away. During the time that you are required to self-isolate, Canada Post should code you as paid special leave which is paid at 100% of your regular wage. If Canada Post refuses to do so, please speak with a shop steward right away.
Cancelled RDO overtime is abundant at this time of year. Many of us rely on that income, however, this is not a reason to ignore what your doctor or medical professional has advised you.
Below are some basic guidelines that have been mandated by the province of British Columbia:
Social gatherings and events
No social gatherings of any size at your residence with anyone other than your household or core bubble. For example:
-
- Do not invite friends or extended family to your household
- Do not host gathering outdoors
- Do not gather in your backyard
- Do not have playdates for children
Core bubble
For most people, their core bubble is their immediate household. An immediate household is a group of people who live in the same dwelling. For example:
- If you have a rental suite in your home, the suite is a separate household
- If you live in an apartment or house with roommates, you are all members of the same household
For others, including people who live alone, their core bubble may also contain a partner, relative, friend or co-parent who lives in a different household. This should be a maximum of two people outside of those living in your immediate household.
While these restrictions may be temporary, if not adhered to they could be extended or tightened, as the province deems. Currently these restrictions are in place until December 7th, 2020.
Hopefully by following these orders from the provincial health authority, these restrictions will loosen.
Our first priority is to look after each other and get through the pandemic safely. Think about your co -workers, especially those with high -risk loved ones, and those with limited options to protect themselves. Think of your co – workers who go home to vulnerable loved ones when they return from work.
Support your co -workers who are making good choices. Do what you can by not only to following appropriate safety guidelines, but also to show your co -workers that you’re looking out for their health. We’ll be stronger and healthier when we do all this. Let’s pull together and minimize the number of people who get exposed to the virus. It’s on all of us.
In solidarity,
Blair Bancroft
1st Vp Vancouver Local 846