(Ottawa) Ottawa mentions a gradual return of its officials to the office, but does not offer more specific objectives like Quebec.
New guidelines from Health Canada on Wednesday indicate that the occupancy rate of federal buildings “can be gradually increased, potentially until full occupancy, depending on operational needs, appropriate use of preventive practices in the environment. work, building layout and local public health considerations ”.
The federal ministry also urges officials to ensure they maintain “the flexibility to adapt to increased transmission rates.”
Treasury Board President Mona Fortier said in a statement that there will be “no one-size-fits-all” and it will be up to managers to ensure the safety and well-being of their employees. She said she expected “that the next steps within federal organizations will be phased in with sustained employee engagement.”
So far, about 95% of federal officials said they were fully vaccinated and 98% said they had received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, she added.
Despite these reported high vaccination rates, it is clear that telework is here to stay within the federal public service. “I count on the continued leadership of departments and agencies to build flexibility into their work models where possible and makes sense,” said Mr.me Fortier by way of press release.
The instructions will however remain strict for those who decide to return to the office. Health Canada recommends wearing the mask indoors when physical distancing cannot be maintained and encourages departments to limit the number and duration of in-person meetings.
While common areas such as dining rooms and cafeterias will be reopened, officials continue to be encouraged to limit their interactions and stay two meters away. “We must encourage employees to eat with as few people as possible,” read the Health Canada guidelines published on Wednesday.
Federal public service employees had until the end of October to sign a certificate on their vaccination status. According to government instructions, those who were not fully immunized by November 15 were to be on unpaid leave and those who lied about their immunization status could be dismissed from their posts.
Health Canada advises, however, that accommodations be made for employees not vaccinated for medical reasons or partially vaccinated employees who are awaiting their second dose. They will be able to perform rapid screening tests and will have to wear the mask at all times indoors, even when physical distancing is respected.
Earlier this week, the Quebec government announced that its officials will return to the office gradually and in hybrid mode starting November 15. The goal is to have all staff in the office, face-to-face, at the rate of a minimum of two days per week by January 28, 2022.