Guidelines and Best Practices for Operating Safely during COVID-19

The Government of BC has released BC’s Restart Plan, with timelines on the re-opening of the economy and the repeal of certain COVID-19 restrictions, and WorkSafeBC has issued both general guidelines as well as industry-specific information for re-opening safely.

Employers resuming operations are required to develop a COVID-19 Safety Plan that outlines the policies, guidelines, and procedures they have put in place to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. Employers must involve frontline workers, joint health and safety committees, and supervisors in identifying protocols for their workplace. You do not need a formal plan in place to begin operation, but are expected to develop it while protecting the safety of your workers. Plans do not need to be submitted or approved, but must be posted in your workplace.

WorkSafeBC – COVID-19 Re-Opening and Safe Operating Guidelines

COVID-19 Safety Plan Template
Guidelines by Industry
- Arts and Cultural Facilities Guidelines
- Health professionals
- In-person counselling
- Education (K-12)
- Gyms and Fitness Facilities (as per Fraser Health)
- Offices
- Parks
- Personal services
- Real Estate
- Restaurants, cafés, and pubs
- Retail
Returning to Safe Operating FAQ
What Workers Should Expect

Other Guidelines and Best Practices

General Information for Businesses

The official BC’s Restart Plan (Government of BC)
Returning to Work During COVID-19 (WorkSafeBC)
Frequently Asked Questions on Re-Opening (WorksafeBC)
COVID Management Strategy (Government of BC)
Key Steps to Safely Operating a Business (Government of BC)
Preventing COVID-19 Exposure in the Workplace (WorkSafeBC)
General Info and Questions on COVID-19 (BC CDC)

Industry Specific Information

Blueprint for Opening Restaurants (BC Restaurant and Food Services Association)
Restaurants: Front of House Best Practices.
Restaurants: Beverage Service Best Practices
Restaurants: Back of House Best Practices (BC Restaurant and Food Services Association)
Comprehensive Re-Opening Guide for Restaurants (Hub International)
Guidance to Retail Food and Grocery Stores (Government of BC)
Road to Retail Recovery Playbook (Retail Council of Canada)
Best Practices for Manufacturers and Food Processors (MSABC)
Information for Food Businesses and Restaurants (BC CDC)
Guidance for Construction Sites (Government of BC)
Guidance for Hotels (Government of BC)