COVID-19 RESOURCES
BILD Alberta is monitoring the government restrictions and is committed to communicating relevant industry information to members.
BILD Alberta is not a regulatory or licensing authority but we play an important role in providing information and supporting resources to members. This extends to changes to safety obligations for employers.
Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) has provided updated guidance that employers are required to treat COVID-19 as a workplace hazard. Similar to other workplace hazards, employers are obligated to “eliminate a hazard wherever possible”. This extends to changes to safety obligations for employers. BILD Alberta recommends all member companies familiarize themselves with these new requirements.
The guidance from OH&S identifies staff vaccinations as an effective control of the hazard and a first choice in addressing it. If vaccinations are not used as a control, employers must implement other controls such as a combination of alternative work arrangements, physical barriers, enhanced ventilation, physical distancing and use of PPE.
Based on the employers’ above obligations, a number of member companies have introduced vaccination polices for their staff. A preliminary canvas of members indicates that the companies who build more than 50% of all new homes and lots annually have either introduced a vaccination policy or are in the process of instituting one. While the specifics vary, most of policies require employees to provide proof of vaccination or negative test results multiple times per week.
In an effort to assist member companies as they navigate these changes to employer obligations, BILD Alberta engaged Tenfold HR Solutions to prepare a generic vaccination policy that members can use, should they choose. We are making this document available to BILD Alberta members free of charge. A number of companies have also provided generic versions of their policies which are available on request.
It is recommended that companies review any policy with their human resources staff and/or legal counsel prior to implementation.
Additional Resources:
Alberta Human Rights Commission – Vaccine Mandates and Proof of Vaccination
Government of Alberta – Vaccine Myths and Facts
Government of Alberta – Vaccine Effectiveness Statistics
Government of Alberta – Paid Sick Leave for Vaccination
Government of Alberta – Employer Toolkit
Occupational Health and Safety – Hazard Assessment and Control Guide
National Advisory Committee on Immunization – Latest Studies
Health Canada – Vaccine Safety
Public Health Emergency
The following is information on current / incoming health restrictions from the Government of Alberta.
Showhomes - Effective Sept. 20
We have received the following guidance from government regarding showhomes.
If a business does not implement the restrictions exemption program, the following restrictions apply:
- Capacity restricted to 1/3 fire code occupancy.
- Attendees must be with household members only, or 2 close contacts if they live alone.
- Masks and 2 metre physicial distancing is required.
Working from home - Effective Sept. 16
It is presently unclear whether the Restrictions Exemption Program can apply to offices and we are seeking guidance.
- Mandatory work-from-home measures are in place unless the employer has determined a physical presence is required for operational effectiveness.
- If employees are working on location, they must mask in all indoor settings, except while alone in work stations.
Restriction Exemption Program
Starting September 20, discretionary events and businesses must follow one of these 2 options:
- Implement the Restrictions Exemption Program requiring proof of vaccination or negative rapid test result to continue operating as usual, or
- Follow capacity and operating restrictions as outlined on the government website.
Business Restrictions
Businesses that implement the Restrictions Exemption Program can operate as usual if they only serve people (ages 12 and over) who have:
- proof of vaccination
- single dose accepted between September 20 and October 25 if received 2 weeks before time of service
- double doses required after October 25
- documentation of a medical exemption
- proof of a privately-paid negative PCR or rapid test within 72 hours of service (tests from AHS or Alberta Precision Laboratories not allowed)
Businesses do not need to apply for the program. Audits and enforcement will occur to ensure rules are followed.
The Restriction Exemption Program would not apply to:
- businesses or entities that need to be accessed for daily living
- employees of businesses participating in the program
- children under 12
Proof of Negative Test
To enter spaces participating in the Restrictions Exemption Program, people aged 12 and older can show proof of a negative test result.
- Tests must be privately-paid COVID-19 PCR or rapid tests completed within 72 hours.
- Tests must not be from Alberta Health Services or Alberta Precision Laboratories.
Masking - Mandatory restriction – Effective Sept. 4 and 16
- Masking and physical distancing are mandatory in all indoor public spaces and workplaces. This measure extends to places of worship as of September 16.
- Employees must mask in all indoor work settings, except while alone in work stations.
Member Shared Resources
The following documents are examples of the safety practices our builder members have implemented to reduce the spread of COVID-19 on worksites. These are working documents and are subject to change.
Mattamy Homes
Reduce Exposure on Site
Prevention Protocol
Office & Site Signage
Safe Return to Work Plan (Mid or High Rise)
Safe Return to Work Plan (Low Rise)
Rohit Group of Companies
CHBA National
Resources available for members (login required):
Government Relations
This sections outlines how CHBA National is engaging with government and stakeholders to inform further responses and support you during this challenging time.
Key Government Measures
This section summarizes key measures taken by the federal government to support Canadians and businesses during the COVID-19 epidemic.
Guidelines for Operating during COVID-19
This is a living document, open for discussion and input from members across the country who are on jobsites and adjusting their business practices to follow the recommendations and requirements of their local health authorities, while also finding innovative ways to be most efficient, productive and safe.
Best Practices for Business Owners
A list of best practices for business owners to consider during the current pandemic as well as any future event.
Resources
Resources related to COVID-19 for members and HBAs.
Government Resources
– Restrictions on businesses
– Restrictions on gatherings
– Essential services
– Support for Albertans
– Support for employers and employees
– Current Situation
– Your health
– Financial & Economic Support
– Safety & Security