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A Further Update on COVID-19 – Toronto and Peel Public Health Regions Stay at Home Order Lifted – Businesses Permitted to Open at Grey Level

March 8, 2021
by Israel Foulon LLP

Summary

On March 5, 2021, the provincial government announced that in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health it was lifting the stay-at-home order for the Toronto and Peel public health regions.

Toronto and Peel Public Health Regions Moving to Grey – Lockdown Classification

Effective Monday, March 8, 2021 at 12:01 am, these regions will be transitioned back into the revised and strengthened COVID-19 Response Framework: Keeping Ontario Safe and Open (the “Framework”) at the Grey – Lockdown classification level.

Reopening your Business in the Grey-Lockdown Classification

Businesses that are permitted to open in the Grey-Lockdown zone must ensure that:

  • Employees are screened prior to entering the workplace using the COVID-19 Screening Tool 
  • signs are placed at all entrances informing people how to screen themselves for COVID-19 before entering your premises
  • capacity is limited so guests can stay at least 2 metres apart
  • the indoor mask mandate is strictly enforced at all times, including any instances where workers are within 2 metres of another (with limited exceptions)
  • often-touched surfaces, such as equipment, washrooms, locker rooms, change rooms and showers are cleaned and disinfected frequently
  • line ups are managed to make sure customers are at least two metres apart and wearing face coverings or masks
  • a COVID-19 Safety Plan is posted in plain sight where workers and Patrons can see it and the plan is to be provided upon request by a public health official.

You can review the full details surrounding what it means to be in the Grey-Lockdown zone (including restrictions on capacity limits for restaurants and retail) HERE.

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Israel Foulon Wong’s Response to COVID-19

Israel Foulon Wong 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.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice, which in all circumstances must be tailored to the specific facts of any problem. You should obtain a proper legal consultation in order to determine how this article applies to your specific situation. Please feel free to contact Israel Foulon LLP to learn more at 416-640-1550.