Health & Safety COVID-19 update: The risk to workers continues

Toronto – July 13, 2020 – As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, essential and front-line workers remain at risk and concerned for their health, and the safety of their families. And the risks aren’t just physical. In one StatsCan survey, over half of the participants reported that their mental health has worsened since the onset of the pandemic.

UFCW Canada’s leadership immediately went to work identifying best practices from our global allies, that helped influence many of the safety standards we now see being instituted across the country today. UFCW continues to call on governments of all levels for urgent action to help protect workers and the communities they serve. National President Paul Meinema recently advised Members of Parliament that much work remains – especially when it comes to achieving full compliance and consistency. Click here to watch the full video.

As governments continue to ease restrictions, the potential for a reignited outbreak puts everyone at increased risk of contracting the virus and having it spread to the workplace. Employers always have the legal responsibility of identifying and controlling workplace hazards – and COVID-19 is a workplace hazard.

This pandemic is far from over. UFCW Canada will continue calling to employers and governments to take the best precautions to protect the workplace from COVID-19. It is important to note that once workers have reported concerns to their supervisor, the Joint Health and Safety Committee, and/or the Local Union, to keep detailed notes and continue to follow up until the issues have been addressed.