May 15, 2020
by Israel Foulon Wong LLP

Summary

Since our May 12, 2020 E-Bulletin, the Ontario Government announced that the province will move forward with Stage One in the framework to gradually reopen the economy.

The following will be permitted as of 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2020:

• Golf courses will be able to open, with clubhouses open only for washrooms and restaurants open only for take-out.
• Marinas, boat clubs and public boat launches may open for recreational use.
• Private parks and campgrounds may open to enable preparation for the season and to allow access for trailers and recreational vehicles whose owners have a full season contract.
• Businesses that board animals, such as stables, may allow boarders to visit, care for or ride their animal.

The following industries will be permitted to re-open as of 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, May 19, 2020:

• Construction projects may resume operations.
  • Essential workplace limits are lifted.
• Retail Stores with a dedicated storefront may re-open.
  • They must follow strict social distancing policies.
  • Retail stores located in shopping malls are to remain closed.
  • Stores should continue to encourage curb side pick-up.
• Vehicle Dealerships
  • Retail showrooms are permitted to reopen.
• Select Media Operations
  • Limited to office-based media production where work cannot be completed remotely.
  • On site production requiring large gathering of workers is prohibited during Stage One.
• Health Services may begin providing:
  • Elective surgeries based on availability; and
  • In person counseling and mental health services.
• Select Outdoor Amenities and Individual Sporting Competitions may reopen.

A detailed list of businesses permitted to open during Stage One may be accessed HERE:

Stage One Considerations:

As employers consider reopening, Premier Ford stressed that businesses should only reopen if they are ready to do so. At the forefront of their concerns should be respect for the health and safety of their employees.

Review the Healthy and Safety Guidelines

• The Ministry of Labour has partnered with Ontario’s Health and Safety associations to develop sector-specific health and safety guidelines and best practices.
• The Database is continually updated as new sectors of the economy are reopened.
• Employers are encouraged to carefully review the guidelines.
• The Ministry has provided sector specific posters that employers can print and post in their workplace.
• The full database can be accessed HERE.

Workplace PPE Supplier Directory

• The Ontario Government has created a database of companies and associations that are ready to provide businesses with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• The full list may be accessed HERE.

Given the exceptional and unprecedented situation, we expect further developments in the coming days.

Israel Foulon’s Response to COVID-19 Israel Foulon is assessing the situation as it evolves, and is taking all necessary precautions within its workplace. To slow the spread of COVID-19 and for the health of our team and clients, absent extraordinary circumstances we are working remotely until further notice whenever possible. However, please be aware that our offices remain open and are fully functioning. In the circumstances, we encourage our clients to contact us by phone and email to the extent possible. Voicemail messages left at our office phone numbers are immediately forwarded via email. All messages will be promptly responded to. We remain steadfast in our commitment to our clients and would be more than happy to assist you with concerns regarding COVID-19 or any other employment or labour matters.