This morning, Dr. Bonnie Henry announced the termination of the Emergency Order enacted at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

A significant outcome of this decision is removing the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for employment in the healthcare system. Employees who lost their jobs due to previous orders requiring COVID-19 immunization refusing vaccination can now reapply for open positions, provided they meet the qualifications.

For more information, read "Provincial health officer rescinds orders for COVID-19."

Additionally, the ministry announced a requirement for operators of publicly-funded healthcare beds to compile a comprehensive inventory of their employees' vaccinations. This includes COVID-19 and influenza vaccines and all vaccines against communicable diseases. The data collected will assist medical health officers in managing disease outbreaks within the healthcare system. While purely private pay homes are not mandated to participate, they are strongly encouraged.

For more information, read "COVID-19 public-health emergency ends, new vaccine registry will keep people safe."

Reportable immunizations include:

• COVID-19
• Influenza
• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella
• Hepatitis B
• Whooping cough (pertussis)
• Chickenpox (varicella)

Considerations for employers to maintain safe workplaces

• Update organization policies and revise any COVID-19-related policies to reflect the new circumstances and ensure they are clear and equitable for all employees
• Provide appropriate re-training and re-onboarding programs to help former employees reintegrate into the workplace and familiarize themselves with updated protocols and practices.
• Maintain a safe working environment.
  • Review and update communicable disease policies.
  • Review current public health guidelines.
  • Ensure risk assessments and exposure control plans are in place for infectious diseases.
  • Continue to encourage vaccination and other preventative measures.
  • Ensure handwashing stations are appropriately equipped
• Openly communicate with employees about the rehiring process and address concerns with empathy.
  • Be sensitive to the experiences of former employees who may have faced stigma due to their status. 
  • Offer resources and support for employees with concerns or questions about vaccinations and workplace safety.
• The WorkSafeBC COVID-19 presumptive clause is linked to the BC Emergencies Act. With the act lifted, there may be changes to how COVID-19 claims are compensated for healthcare workers.