1

Returning

to the New

Normal:

The

COVID-19

Pandemic

Employee

Guide

Note to Readers:

The information in this Covid-19 Pandemic Response Guide represents our current

practices and recommendations for our construction operations, where and when

permitted by law during this unprecedented time of the COVID-19 pandemic. This

document may not be applicable to other businesses or places of work.

Lester bears no responsibility for any circumstances arising out of or related to the

adoption of any practices or procedures contained in this guide.

This is a “living” document that may be updated at any time given the fluidity of this

situation.

May 18th

, 2020 – Revision 1

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A Letter from the Executives 3

Purpose and Intent 4

CDC Prevention Recommendations 5

Chapter 1:

What Can You Expect Upon Your Return to Work?

A: Return to Work Orientation 7

B: New Controls, Procedures and Protocols 7

C: Social Distancing and Hand Hygiene 7

D: Communication References 8

E: Workspace Disinfection and Cleaning Guidelines 9

Chapter 2:

What is Lester Doing to Keep You Safe?

A: Entering the Building and Screening Requirements 11

B: Contact Tracing For a Symptomatic Employee 12

C: Understanding the Symptoms 13

D: Mandatory Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Use 14

E: Inbound Parts, Materials and Packages Guidelines 15

Chapter 3:

Standard Protocols for all Construction

A: COVID-19 Pre-Screening Temperature Check Procedure 17

B: COVID-19 Safe Work Practice 20

C: COVID-19 Risk Assessment & Worksite Precautions Sheet 25

D: Tracking Log Sheet 27

E: Infectious Disease Control Policy 28

F: COVID-19 Screening Form 30

G: Safetytalk: 8 Ways to Avoid Catching and Spreading the Flu 31

H: Social Distancing Policy & Procedure 33

Chapter 4:

What Does Lester Expect from You?

A: Operating Within the “New Normal” 38

B: Social Distancing Guidance 38

Chapter 5:

Who Can You Talk to if you Have Questions?

A: Supporting Mental Health 40

B: Coping During the COVID-19 Pandemic 40

Chapter 6:

Visual Aids

A: Hand Sanitizing 44

B: Proper Cough and Sneeze Practice 45

C: Wash Your Hands 46

D: Physical Distancing 47

E: Stop the Spread of Germs in the Workplace 48

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A Letter from the Executives:

Bill Lester Scott Woodall Denise Hillman Dave Lester

President Vice President Financial Controller/

HR Coordinator

Site Manager

The COVID-19 Pandemic is a disruption unlike any that we have ever experienced. As a

public health concern, it is greater than any previous influenza strain, with a global reach

and no existing vaccine. As such, our “normal” life has changed significantly for the

foreseeable future, as governments and enterprises grapple with the challenges of re-

opening society and re-starting the economy, and Lester is no exception.

As we resume our operations along with our customers, our primary concern is the

safety of our employees. Upon returning to Lester you will see a great many physical and

procedural changes that have been implemented to conform to the guidelines provided

by the Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization. These

changes can be summarized into 3 major categories: Physical Separation or Social

Distancing, Augmented Hygiene, and Contact Tracing.

This guidebook is designed to be the go-to resource for the specific changes to life at

Lester to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. It will help all of us by saving time,

preventing mistakes, encouraging independence and autonomy, and ensuring the safety

of all employees.

This has been a difficult time for everyone, and information changes rapidly. While this

guidebook is very extensive, situations will change and we need to adjust accordingly.

Re-establishing a workplace where employees feel comfortable performing their jobs

safely is a multi-faceted challenge, and some solutions may not be perfect; but if we all

understand the background and purpose, we have a framework for continuous

improvement. It is our hope that by sharing this resource, we can work together to create

a safe and productive work environment as everyone adapts to the new operating

protocols in today’s challenging conditions.

Stay Strong, Stay Safe

“

”

4

Purpose and Intent

The purpose of this guide is to provide Employees with information

regarding changes to protocols and operating standards as we navigate

through “the new normal”.

These protocols represent our current practices regarding the operations

of our facilities during a highly uncertain time and are designed to be a

“living” document. We recognize that applicable public health guidance

regarding COVID-19 is evolving on a daily basis and will update our

practices accordingly.

The following guidelines were developed and supported collectively by

Canadian Construction Association to protect the safety of employees

and others on the premises in relation to COVID-19. Lester is adopting

these practices voluntarily.

“Lester is committed to the health

and safety of all employees. It is our

continuing objective to conduct

operations in a safe and healthy

manner thus protecting our

employees from personal injury or

health hazards.”

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CDC Prevention Recommendations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the

best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus.

Their recommendations are for everyone to:

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

This is especially important after you have been in a public place, or after

blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.

If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at

least 60% alcohol.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

2. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Put distance between yourself and other people.

Practice social/physical distancing whenever possible.

3. Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.

You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.

Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in

public. (ex. Grocery store)

The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are

infected.

Continue to follow social/physical distancing whenever possible.

4. Cover coughs and sneezes.

Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or use the inside of your

elbow when you cough or sneeze.

Throw used tissues in the trash.

Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20

seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that

contains at least 60% alcohol.

5. Clean and Disinfect

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes

tabletops, phones, keyboards, faucets etc.

If surfaces are dirty, clean them.

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Chapter 1

What can you

expect upon your

return to work?

7

A. Return to Work Orientation

Before returning to work, all employees will attend a Return to Work Orientation

where new protocols and procedures will be discussed.

Some of these topics include:

1. Entering the job site and screening requirements.

Employee health self-assessment

Isolation for a symptomatic Employee

3rd

Party Decontamination

2. Social distancing, contact tracing and hand hygiene.

Cleaning stations

Social distancing protocol

Designated entrances, & exits

B. New Controls, Procedures and Protocols:

Engineering Controls

Plexiglass or other barriers may be used to separate employees in close working

proximity. (If applicable)

Additional cleaning requirements are in place for your workstation, at the start, mid

and end of shift.

Limited entrances into buildings are in place to ensure everyone has been screened

and authorized to enter.

Social distancing floor markers have been put into place. (If applicable)

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

All Employees will be given a non-surgical mask upon entry to the building.

You may wish to wear a non-medical mask from home, as long as it does not pose a

hazard to you or other workers (ex. Entanglement).

Work from Home

If possible, employees will be able to work from home with the provided expectations

to ensure communication and customer service:

Maintain regular work hours

Take breaks at regular times

Join meetings as usual using Microsoft Teams

Answer phones as normal

Follow deadlines as expected

C.

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D. Social Distancing and Hand Hygiene:

Workplace Social Distancing Guidelines

1. Distance: Avoid crowds and maintain 2m/6ft from those around you.

2. Avoid Contact: Where minimum distance cannot be maintained, Lester will

implement other controls to prevent contact such as barriers.

3. If sick: Stay home and isolate when you have COVID-19 symptoms or feel ill, notify

HR, contact local health authorities and/or your doctor.

4. Travel: Notify HR and self-isolate for 14 days after return from travel.

5. Virtual Meetings: Use telepresence in place of meetings when possible.

6. Policies: Always follow procedures to maintain social distancing, including, break

times, use of lunch rooms and smoking areas.

Hand Hygiene

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after

you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.

2. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least

60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel

dry.

3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

Cover Coughs and Sneezes

1. Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the

inside of your elbow.

2. Throw used tissues in the trash.

3. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap

and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60%

alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

E. Communication References

You will see posted communications on social distancing, proper hand hygiene, use

of personal protective equipment and new procedures to keep you safe while you

work. All communications are readily available, please see HR if you would like more

information.

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Work Space Disinfection and Cleaning Guidelines

Frequency in Workspaces and Offices

Area of

Concern

Details Decontamination

Frequency

Decontaminati

on Method

Work cell,

common

surfaces

Control

buttons, tools,

other common

surfaces

Start of shift, after

rotation, when

employee starts work

at a new station, end

of day

Spray paper

towel with

disinfectant or

wipes and wipe

down

Office area Desk, chairs,

keyboards etc.

Start and end of day

Meeting/

Conference

Rooms

Table top,

chairs,

keyboards,

light switches

etc.

Meeting organizer to

clean after meeting

General

objects/

common

surfaces

Doors,

windows,

handles, sinks,

washrooms

etc.

Continuously on

rotational basis every

2-4 hours

Forklifts/

tuggers and

other mobile

equipment

Areas of

common

human

interaction

Start and end of shift

OR with change of

operator

Company

vehicles

Areas of

common

human

interaction

Driver to clean after

use

Kitchen/

cafeteria

Microwaves,

fridges,

vending

machines etc.

Continuously on

rotational basis every

2-4 hours

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Chapter 2

What is Lester

doing to keep

you safe?

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A. Entering the Building and Screening Requirements:

Screening Protocol: Employees

Before you enter the building – you will review the Self-Assessment Questionnaire

(signs are posted on the entry doors), if you answer yes to any of the questions, do

not enter the building - leave and contact HR.

Upon entry to the building, you will be asked to sanitize your hands and wear the

company provided mask. You can also wear your own mask from home as long as it

does not present a hazard. (ex. Entanglement)

Screening Protocol: Visitors

The company has imposed a ban on general visitation to facilities until further

notice.

Meetings should take place virtually or using small groups only.

Business essential visitors, contractors or suppliers should follow the COVID-19

Visitor Pre-Screening Questionnaire

The host must be granted approval and arrange with Pre-Screening questionnaire

Lester will not provide safety glasses or toe caps to any visitors, they must provide

their own

Visitors, contractors or suppliers who have known exposure to COVID-19 or who are

experiencing symptoms of illness must not be permitted entry to the facility.

The host must stay with the visitor at all times.

Isolation Guidance for Symptomatic Employee

If an Employee arrives at work, if someone observes that another employee is

exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 or becomes ill at work:

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1. The Employee will be asked to leave the building A Secondary Temperature Scanner

will wear the appropriate PPE and review the Health Survey with the Employee.

2. The Contact Tracing Questionnaire will be completed with the Employee to identify

all close contacts.

3. The Employee will be sent home using their own vehicle.

4. The Employee will be directed to contact the Public Health Unit for further guidance.

5. The contact tracing will be completed and close contacts of the isolated Employee

will be notified.

6. Close contacts of the isolated Employee will be sent home.

7. The potentially affected area will be closed off and decontaminated by a 3rd

Party

Cleaner using the Suspected COVID-19 Case protocols.

8. HR to contact the employee to determine what medical or Public Health guidance

they were given.

9. Once decontamination is complete, the area will be audited by Management, Health

& Safety Representatives from HR

B. Contact Tracing for a Symptomatic Employee

Contact tracing is a process that is used to identify, educate and monitor individuals

who have had close contact with someone who is infected with a virus.

Contact tracers need to:

1. Immediately identify and interview the Employee with symptoms of COVID-19.

2. Support the isolation of those who are infected.

3. Notify contacts of their possible exposure, assess their symptoms and risk and

provide instructions for next steps. Link those with symptoms to testing and care.

There are specific definitions for “close contacts” and “presumed case” of COVID-19

Not all employees are close contacts. Use the guidance document to determine true

close contacts of an employee who gets sick at work or reports they have developed

symptoms or has a family member who has developed symptoms.

At present, tracing should be done for the 7 days prior to the onset of an employee’s

symptoms or the employee being told they have tested positive for COVID-19.

Designated cafeterias and entrance/exit doors allows for a more accurate contact

tracing investigation.

Limiting the areas that Employees work in, go to break and enter the building

reduces the spread of the virus and allows for more accurate contact tracing.

Guidance from the CDC:

Based on current knowledge, a close contact is defined as:

Someone who was within 6ft of an infected person for at least 15 minutes starting 48 hours before the onset of symptoms

until the time the infected person was isolated.

They should stay home, maintain social distancing and self-monitor until 14 days from the last date of exposure.

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Understanding the Symptoms:

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Mandatory Personal Protective Equipment Use

Mask Use:

A) Company provided non-surgical masks are required PPE

for all Employees and Visitors entering the facility.

B) Masks must be worn at all times with the exception of

eating, drinking and/or smoking.

C) Mask use is mandatory when using company vehicles

D) Cloth masks or N95 masks are also approved for

Employees to bring from home.

E) Construction Sites

Safety Glasses,

and Face

Shields

A) Eye protection is already used and continues to be

mandatory. Additional wide scale measures are not

required.

B) When cleaning or decontaminating suspected COVID-19

affected areas, face shield use is required.

Nitrile Glove

Use:

A) Wide scale glove use is not required

B) Mandatory glove use is required (HR):

When conducting temperature screenings for Employees

upon entry of the building (If applicable)

When closing off a decontaminated area prior to 3rd

Party

Cleaning

Guidance from the CDC:

The COVID-19 virus does not harm your hands, so gloves provide no protection. Touching your face

with contaminated hands, whether gloved or not, poses a significant risk of infection.

Gloves often create a false sense of security for the individuals wearing them; people are more likely to

touch contaminated surfaces because they feel they are protected from the virus because of the

gloves, when in reality – they are not.

When wearing gloves, people are less inclined to wash their hands; this is counterproductive and puts

others at higher risk; we want people to wash their hands because it is the number-one defense

against any virus.

If contaminated gloves are not removed properly, employees are exposed to a greater risk.

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C.

Inbound Parts, Materials and Packages Guidance

The World Health Organization advises it is safe to receive packages,

advising that:

“The likelihood of an infected person contaminating commercial goods is

low, and the risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 from a package

that has been moved, travelled and exposed to different conditions and

temperatures is low.”

Survival of the virus in air suspended in droplets is about 3 hours

Survival of the virus on plastic and steel is about 72 hours

Survival of the virus on copper is about 4-6 hours

Survival of the virus on cardboard is about 24 hours

If you receive an expedited package and are concerned about possible

surface contamination, consider these steps:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water

Use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available

Avoid touching your face, eyes, nose or mouth

If packaged materials have been in transit and/or storage at the plant for

more than 48 hours from last human contact, no further action needs to be

taken. While not necessary, where employee apprehension remains high,

follow these suggested additional precautions:

Use PPE such as disposable nitrile gloves

Disinfection of surfaces as appropriate

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Chapter 3

Standard Protocols

for all

Construction

17

COVID-19 Pre-Screening Temperature Check Procedure

POLICY STATEMENT

COVID-19 coronavirus is highly contagious and implementing social distancing

practices is essential to prevent its spread. Accordingly: During the current COVID-19

pandemic, no persons will be permitted to enter or remain at a Lester Group work site

or facility unless and until they submit to and receive clearance under the pre-

screening process set forth in this Policy.

PURPOSE

In recognition of the invasive nature of medical pre-screening and the potential

hazards it poses, Lester Group has adopted this Policy to clearly explain how the

process will work and ensure that it is done

Fairly, effectively, safely, consistently and in a manner that complies with current

government emergency orders and public health guidelines (collectively,

“Guidelines”).

SCOPE

The requirement to undergo pre-screening under this Policy applies not just to Lester

Group employees but all persons seeking entrance to Lester Group work facilities,

including but not limited to contract workers, couriers, clients, customers and

visitors. No person will be exempt from pre-screening and pre-screening will be

required prior to any and all entry and not waived for any occasion. Those wishing to

avoid undergoing pre-screening may do so by staying away and not seeking to enter

the facility.

PRE-SCREENING PROCEDURES

Lester Group will create a pre-screening checkpoint in the front entrance of the

building that all persons will be required to pass through before entering the facility.

A Site Supervisor, stationed at the checkpoint will administer the pre-screening exam

in accordance with the following procedures and criteria.

Body Temperature Check

Screening personnel may take each entrant’s body temperature to ensure they do not

have a fever. No person whose body temperature meets or exceeds the fever

threshold, which will be set at will be 100.4°F/38°C in accordance with US Centers for

Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, shall be allowed entry into the facility.

Other Symptoms Check

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In recognition of the possibility that a person can have COVID-19 without having a

fever, the screener will ask all entrants the following YES/NO questions:

Are you experiencing any of the following symptoms: cough, fever, difficulty

breathing or sudden loss of smell?

Have you been outside Canada within the past two weeks?

Have you had close contact, i.e., within six feet/two meters, of a person confirmed as

having COVID-19 within the past two weeks?

Admittance Criteria

No person who answers YES to any of the above questions will be allowed to enter the

facility. Exception: Individuals who are health care or critical infrastructure workers

may be admitted if they are

asymptomatic and agree to do ALL of the following:

Wear a face mask at all times while in the workplace;

Adhere to all Lester Group social distancing protocols and requirements; and

Self-monitor while in the workplace in accordance with Lester Group medical

procedures.

Pre-Screening Form

Screening personnel will record the results of each check on the Lester Group COVID-

19 Pre-Screening Form, a copy of which is included.

PRIVACY PROTECTIONS

Lester Group will implement the following safeguards to minimize collection and

retention of personal and private information. No Additional Information to Be

Collected In recognition of entrants’ privacy rights the minimum necessary to

accomplish the social distancing and health and safety purpose of pre-screening.

Screening personnel will neither request nor seek to collect any further medical

information of any kind during the pre-screening process.

Pre-Screening Records Retention

Lester Group will retain the pre-screening records of entrants who are employees that

fail to pass the pre-screening criteria in a confidential personnel file that will not be

used or disclosed except in accordance with the Lester Group Employee Privacy Policy,

and that will be treated as confidential data that must be kept secure in accordance

with the Lester Group Data Security Policy. Lester Group will not

retain the pre-screening records of:

Entrants who pass pre-screening; or

Entrants who do not pass pre-screening but are not employees of Lester Group.

HEALTH & SAFETY OF TEMPERATURE TAKING PROCESS

19

A competent person will perform a hazard assessment to identify potential infection,

health and safety hazards to both screening personnel and entrants during the

temperature-taking process and Lester Group will implement the following measures

to eliminate or control identified hazards:

Where reasonably practicable, the use of engineering control, e.g., substitution of

contact thermometers with infrared non-contact thermometers to eliminate the need

for contact between screening personnel and entrants;

Administrative and work controls, including ensuring that screening personnel are

properly trained and follow safe work procedures; and

Use of appropriate personal protection equipment, including at a minimum, N95

respirator masks and protective gloves, and where necessary, aprons, gowns and/or

eye/face protection to protect screening personnel from being splashed with bodily

fluids.

DURATION OF POLICY

This Policy is a temporary measure that will last only as long as the COVID-19

pandemic and will end once the Guidelines’ social distancing mandate becomes no

longer necessary. In addition, Lester Group reserves the right to modify any and all

of the Policy terms and procedures, including the elimination or addition of

requirements, as Guidelines change over the course of the pandemic.

A.

B.

C.

D.

E.

F.

G.

H.

I.

J.

K.

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L. COVID-19 Safe Workplace Practice

PURPOSE

Lester Group has a duty to protect its workers from exposure to infectious viruses and

illnesses that they may contract while performing their work duties. We know that a

combination of control measures is required to achieve this objective. We commit to

being diligent in our efforts to select the most effective control technologies available

and to ensure that best practices, are followed in our workplace.

EMPLOYER RESPONSIBILITIES

Identify and assess work processes that could lead to worker exposure to COVID-19.

Ensure that the materials and other resources required to implement and maintain

this Safe Work Practice are readily available where and when they are required—for

example, materials such as personal protective equipment (PPE) and resources such as

worker training.

Recommend and provide access to seasonal flu vaccinations.

Conduct a periodic review (at least annually) of the effectiveness of the Safe Work

Practice. Include the JHSC (or worker health and safety representative, if applicable) in

the process, which should include a review of available control technologies to ensure

they are selected and used when practical.

Ensure that all necessary equipment and PPE are used as required.

Ensure that supervisors and workers are educated and trained to an acceptable level

of competency.

Maintain records of training, fit-test results, safety talks and inspections (e.g., for

equipment, PPE and work methods or practices).

Investigate all exposure incidents, including near misses.

Coordinate work with other employers to ensure a safe work environment, including

the following:

Inform all subcontractors of specific hazards on the worksites.

Ensure that subcontractors have appropriate safe work procedures.

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Ensure that workers have received adequate instruction on the hazards associated

with exposure to COVID-19.

Select and implement appropriate control measures, including PPE. Ensure that

workers using respirators have been properly fit tested and that the results are

recorded.

Ensure that workers don and doff their PPE properly and follow decontamination

procedures.

Direct work in a manner that minimizes and controls the risks to workers.

Liaise with other employers to ensure a safe work environment.

Ensure that subcontractors are following proper safe work procedures.

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WORKER RESPONSIBILITIES

Attend educational sessions provided by Lester Group.

Use assigned PPE in an effective and safe manner.

Follow Public Health recommendations regarding a seasonal flu vaccination.

Follow established work and decontamination procedures as directed by your

supervisor.

Report unsafe conditions and acts to your supervisor.

Make sure you know how to report exposure incidents.

Report any flu-like symptoms immediately.

SAFE WORK PRACTICES

Social Distancing:

Don’t shake hands when greeting others.

Try to maintain distance from others in contained areas

Avoid contact with people who are sick.

Stay home if you are sick.

Consider the following additional measures:

Staggered start times

Staggered breaks

Staggered lunches

Total number of people on-site and where they are assigned to work

Site movement (where higher potential of workers gathering including personal and

material hoists and site trailers)

Personal Hygiene:

Everyone can take individual steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Personal hygiene

tips include:

Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

(See hand washing and hand sanitizing posters)

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands

Cough and sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and wash your hands afterwards

If you use a tissue, discard immediately and wash your hands afterward

Avoid high-touch areas, where possible, or ensure you clean your hands after

Open doors and touch elevator buttons with gloves, the back of your hand, or other

body part or activate the wheelchair accessibility button with the back of your hand,

elbow or knee if possible

Where possible, wear provided gloves when interacting with high-touch areas. Do not

touch your face with gloved hands. Take care when removing gloves. Ensure you wash

your hands after removing them

Wash your clothes as soon as you get home

Notify your supervisor immediately if you are sick and contact public health.

Illness Reporting: The symptoms of COVID-19 are shared with many other illnesses

including the cold and flus. At this time, it is recommended that any worker who is

experiencing any symptoms should be sent home. In addition, all workers experiencing

symptoms are advised to complete the self-assessment on the Ontario COVID website

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and follow instruction there, or CALL telehealth (1-866-797-0000), your local public

health unit or your family physician. Public Health is the leading authority for all issues

related to COVID-19 and only they can provide detailed instructions to employees and

employers.

Keeping Job Sites and Work Areas Clean:

As outlined in several government documents, on-site sanitation is paramount. Lester

Group has an obligation to increase the sanitization of sites. Areas of focus will

include:

Access to soap and water and hand sanitizer

Washroom facilities sanitized daily

Commonly touched surfaces, tools, vehicles or areas (hoists / site-trailers / door

handles/ equipment or residential units) will be sanitized daily

Unnecessary on-site contact between workers and between workers and outside

service providers will be limited. Physical distancing will be encouraged.

Prevent Hand Tool Infections:

Here are 7 best practices for preventing hand tools from becoming a conduit for COVID-

19 infection at your workplace based on guidance from the OHS Insider:

Proper Hand Washing: Follow proper posted hand washing & hand sanitizing

guidelines.

Cleaning Hand Tools: The supervisor at the site should ensure that hand tools are

frequently and properly washed, including at the start and end of each day and

immediately after each use

How to Clean and Disinfect Your Tools and Equipment

1. Wear PPE such as waterproof gloves for your hands and face shield

and mask to protect your eyes, face and mouth.

2. Wear coveralls to protect your clothing.

3. Make sure all power is off and disconnected on power tools and

equipment.

4. Read the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning to avoid possible

damage from liquids and chemicals.

5. Clean surface with soap and water to remove all visible debris and

stains.

6. Follow labeled instructions and safety data sheets on all containers

of cleansing products you use.

7. If disinfecting products aren’t available to buy, you can make your

own by mixing a water and bleach solution. Check the bleach

manufacturer’s recommendation for mixing ratios.

8. To disinfect, typical recommendation is to allow surface to remain

wet for 5-10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly, and air dry.

9. Remove disposable PPE and discard. Remove coveralls and place in

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a bag for washing in a bleach wash as per the bleach manufacturer’s

guidance.

10. Wash your hands after removing all PPE.

No Tool Sharing, When Possible: If possible, furnish enough tools at the site so that

workers don’t have to share.

Flagging Shared Tools: If sharing can’t be avoided, shared tools should be identified

in some fashion, e.g., a red label, which lists cleaning instructions. Also be sure to store

shared tools in a separate toolbox with washing supplies kept nearby.

Making Workers Use Gloves: Where reasonably practicable, all workers, including

those who use hand tools will wear protective gloves.

Treating Clothing as a Potential Source of Infection or Exposure: Workers to place

their work clothes into a bag and launder immediately, ideally in a separate load.

Disinfection & Isolation: If a worker is discovered to have COVID-19 or its symptoms,

the worker will be sent home and everything he touched in the past 48 hours

immediately isolated and disinfected, including his tools and PPE. Other best practices

include designating one or more persons to be responsible for moving, cleaning and

disinfecting tools, equipment and PPE and ensuring they use PPE such as gloves and

coveralls to perform those tasks.

Worksite Provisions:

All jobsites will have a hand washing station with water, soap and paper towels

All vehicles have at least 60% hand sanitizer

Each employee is provided their own PPE which includes a roll of paper towels, safety

glasses, washable work gloves, 2 pairs of nitrile gloves, mask

Procedures for PPE:

Safety glasses should be worn at all times while on job sites.

Work gloves should be worn on all construction sites at all times and washed daily

When you arrive at a job site, sanitize or wash your hands and put on your gloves.

Avoid touching your face with your gloved hands.

At break times, remove gloves and wash your hands thoroughly.

Always sanitize or wash hands BEFORE getting into a vehicle.

Nitrile gloves are to be used at your discretion when cleaning up an area or disposing

of trash. Throw the gloves in the trash as soon as you remove them and wash your

hands

Track and Monitor Workforce, Visitors Suppliers

Due to the latency period of COVID-19, it is important to track when workers report an

illness as well as where they have worked. In the case of a positive test, Public Health

will ask Lester Group to provide information on where an Employee worked as well as

the contact information of anyone who may have been exposed. The better Lester

Group tracks information, the better Public Health can respond.

Deliveries

Delivery zones are clearly identified and limited to receivers and deliverers only.

24

When possible, nothing is passed between the deliverer and the receiver (e.g.

shipment documents and pens for signatures). Deliveries are unloaded solely by

receivers using proper PPE, while deliverers remain in their vehicles.

Entering a Residence:

The pre-screening form will be required to be filled out by the resident living in the

home or

No will enter a residence without the completed and signed.

If the pre-screening form indicates the potential for COVID-19 infection, no worker

shall enter the residence.

When entering the residence wash or sanitize hands and the following PPE will be

required:

Gloves

Safety glasses

Masks

Steel toe shoes (possibly boot covers)

When leaving the residence, wash or sanitize hands, remove PPE and set aside to be

washed or discard.

TRAINING

The requirements of this document shall be reviewed with all employees.

Documentation of all training shall be filed and kept at the main office.

25

COVID-19 Risk Assessment & Worksite Precautions

Sheet

Use this Risk Assessment and Worksite Precautions form, to identify and control COVID-19

infection risks to workers at your site. If you’ve already implemented control measures,

you can use the form as a self-audit tool. Be sure to consult with your workplace JHSC

and/or health and safety representative in carrying out your infection control program,

not just for COVID-19 in times of pandemic but for all contagious diseases in times of

normalcy when they return.

PART A: SHOULD THE WORKER BE ALLOWED AT THE WORK SITE?

1. Does worker have fever, cough, and shortness of breath, trouble breathing, sore

throat or runny nose?

[ ] No—Go to Question

2

[ ] Yes—Worker must be at home in self-isolation for 14 days

after symptoms completely disappear

2. Has worker traveled outside Canada within last 14 days?

[ ] No—Go to Question

3

[ ] Yes—Worker must be at home in self-isolation for 14 days

3. Has worker tested positive for COVID-19?

[ ] No—Go to Question

4

[ ] Yes—Worker must be at home in self-isolation for 14 days

4. Has worker had any known exposure to COVID-19, e.g., near infected person

without PPE?

[ ] No—Go to Question

5

[ ] Yes—Worker must be at home in self-isolation for 14 days

5. Does worker perform an essential service?

[ ] No—Go to Question

6

[ ] Yes—Worker must undergo risk assessment under Part B

6. Can worker perform the job remotely?

[ ] No—Go to Question

7

[ ] Yes—Company must implement work-at-home agreement

for worker

7. Do work schedules + physical work environment ensure social distancing of at least

6 feet apart?

[ ] No—Perform risk

assessment under Part B

[ ] Yes—Company must develop physical distancing

operational plan that works for its business

PART B: PERFORM COVID-19 RISK ASSESSMENT

Complete the following risk assessment to identify:

*How workers may be exposed to COVID-19, e.g., via contact with co-workers, customers +

general public

*Workers’ individual risk factors, e.g., age, chronic medical conditions, pregnancy

*Controls necessary to eliminate or minimize risk

Job-Related Risk Levels for COVID-19

Exposure Risk Level Description of Jobs

Very

High (1)

Frequent + direct exposure to COVID-19, e.g., health care workers + lab

personnel working with COVID-19 patients

High (2) Indirect exposure to COVID-19, e.g., ambulance staff or hospital workers

entering COVID-19 patients’ rooms

Medium

(3)

Frequent/close contact (within 6 feet) with potentially infected people who

aren’t COVID-19 patients, e.g., at airports or retail stores

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Lower (4) Jobs that do not require frequent close contact with (i.e., within 2 meters of)

the general public. Workers in this category have minimal occupational

contact with the public and other coworkers.

PART C: SELECT CONTROL MEASURES

Eliminate hazard: Remove task, equipment, chemical or action that causes hazard,

e.g., having workers work remotely

Substitute: Replace hazardous work process, substance, tool or equipment with a

less hazardous one

Engineering controls: Design work site, equipment or process to eliminate,

minimize or isolate the hazard, e.g., ventilation or use of physical barriers

Administrative controls: Safe work procedures, training and other methods of

limiting hazard by controlling how work is done, e.g., social distancing, requiring

frequent hand washing, staggering work shifts to minimize number of workers

present at any time

PPE: Respirators, gloves, aprons + other protective equipment required based on

exposure risk level

PART D. IMPLEMENT HAZARD CONTROLS

Identified

Hazard

Risk

Level

Control Method

For each control, you should be able to answer yes to these questions:

☐Have you discussed the hazards and controls with the Workers?

☐Have provided training for these control measures?

☐Have you saved a copy of this risk assessment?

PART E: MONITOR EFFECTIVENESS OF CONTROL MEASURES

[ ] Create a plan to monitor that each control measure is working, e.g., safety inspection

checklist

[ ] Correct measures found not to be working effectively

[ ] Seek JHSC or worker input in monitoring and taking corrective action

Name: ______________________________________________

Title: _______________________________________________

Date of Completion: __________________________________

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Tracking Log Sheet

INSTRUCTIONS: To keep track of employees, subcontractors, visitors etc. on worksites

during the current pandemic, Lester Group is requiring ALL employees, contract workers,

suppliers, clients, customers, guests, visitors and other persons who come to worksites to

sign this form.

Worksite: _____________________________________

Date: ________________________________________

Employees

First Name Last Name

Contract Workers, Suppliers, Clients, Customers, Visitors,

First & Last Name Comp

any

Contact Info

In

28

in Infectious Diseases Control Policy

Lester Group will take proactive steps to protect the workplace in the event of an

infectious disease outbreak. It is the goal of Lester Group during any such time period to

strive to operate effectively and ensure that all essential services are continuously

provided and that employees are safe within the workplace.

Lester Group is committed to providing authoritative information about the nature and

spread of infectious diseases, including symptoms and signs to watch for, as well as

required steps to be taken in the event of an illness or outbreak.

Preventing the Spread of Infection in the Workplace

Lester Group will ensure a clean workplace, including:

The regular cleaning of objects and areas that are frequently used, such as

bathrooms, tools, vehicles, door handles etc.

We ask all employees to cooperate in taking steps to reduce the transmission of infectious

disease in the workplace. The best strategy remains the most obvious—

frequent hand washing with warm, soapy water;

covering your mouth whenever you sneeze or cough; and

Discarding used tissues in wastebaskets.

We will also supply at least 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizers throughout the workplace

and in common areas.

Unless otherwise notified, our normal attendance and leave policies will remain in place.

Individuals who believe they may face particular challenges reporting to work during an

infectious disease outbreak should take steps to develop any necessary contingency

plans. For example, employees might want to arrange for alternative sources of childcare

should schools close and/or speak with supervisors about the potential to work from

home temporarily or on an alternative work schedule.

Limiting Travel

All nonessential travel should be avoided until further notice. Employees who travel as

an essential part of their job should consult with management on appropriate actions.

Business-related travel outside the United States will not be authorized until further

notice.

Employees should avoid crowded public transportation when possible. Alternative

scheduling options, ride-share resources and/or parking assistance will be provided on a

case-by-case basis. Contact human resources for more information.

Staying Home When Ill

29

Many times, with the best of intentions, employees report to work even though they feel

ill. We provide paid sick time and other benefits to compensate employees who are unable

to work due to illness as per the Employment Standards Act.

During an infectious disease outbreak, it is critical that employees do not report to work

while they are ill and/or experiencing the following symptoms:

fever

cough

sore throat

runny or stuffy nose

body aches with headache, chills and fatigue

For confirmed 2019-nCoV infections, reported illnesses have ranged from people with

little to no

Symptoms to people being severely ill and dying.

Symptoms can include:

• Fever

• Cough

• Shortness of breath

CDC believes at this time that symptoms of 2019-nCoV may appear in as few as 2 days or

as long as 14 after exposure. This is based on what has been seen previously as the

incubation period of MERS.

Requests for Medical Information and/or Documentation

If you are out sick or show symptoms of being ill, it may become necessary to request

information from you and/or your health care provider. In general, we would request

medical information to confirm your need to be absent, to show whether and how an

absence relates to the infection, and to know that it is appropriate for you to return to

work. As always, we expect and appreciate your cooperation if and when medical

information is sought.

Confidentiality of Medical Information

Our policy is to treat any medical information as a confidential medical record. In

furtherance of this policy, any disclosure of medical information is in limited

circumstances with supervisors, managers, first aid and safety personnel, and

government officials as required by law.

Social Distancing Guidelines for Workplace Infectious Disease Outbreaks

In the event of an infectious disease outbreak, refer to the Social Distancing Policy &

Procedure.

M.

N.

O.

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COVID-19 Screening Form

Instructions: All customers, clients and visitors must complete this Form before working

on Lester Group worksites. Lester Group reserves the right to refuse admittance to the

worksite or may refuse to enter a customer/clients’ home on the basis of their responses

to the questions posed and information requested by this Form.

Name: ___________________________________________________________

Company (if applicable): ________________________________________________________

Date: ________________________________ Time: ______________________________

Part A: In the past 24 hours, have you experienced:

Employee, visitors, subcontractor, supplier:

Sore throat: YES [ ] NO [ ]

New or worsening cough: YES [ ] NO [ ]

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: YES [ ] NO [ ]

Sudden loss of smell: YES [ ] NO [ ]

Body temperature: __________________

Customer/client have you or anyone in your household experienced:

Sore throat: YES [ ] NO [ ]

New or worsening cough: YES [ ] NO [ ]

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: YES [ ] NO [ ]

Sudden loss of smell: YES [ ] NO [ ]

Body temperature: __________________

Instructions: If you answered YES to any of the symptoms listed above or if your body

temperature is 100.4°F/38°C or higher, you will not be admitted to the worksite nor will

an employee enter your residence. Self-isolate at home and contact your primary care

doctor for directions. If you answered NO to all of the above and your body temperature

is below 100.4°F/38°C, complete the next part of the Form.

Part B: In the past 14 days, have you:

Had close contact, i.e., within 6 feet, of a person diagnosed with COVID-19?

YES [ ] NO [ ]

Travelled internationally or domestically by plane?

YES [ ] NO [ ]

If you answered YES to either of the above questions:

You are not permitted to enter the worksite and should self-quarantine at home for 14

days following close contact with the COVID-19 positive person or return from

international or domestic travel. Lester Group workers will not enter your residence.

Signature: ____________________________________________________________

31

P. Safety Talk: 8 Ways to Avoid Catching & Spreading the

Flu

WHAT’S AT STAKE

Every year, millions of workers are infected with a contagious respiratory illness:

influenza, commonly known as the flu. Many workers who are sick with the flu refuse to

let the illness prevent them from Working, thinking they can “tough it out.” So they go to

work with a reduced ability to work safely and Productively, and they jeopardize the

health of their co-workers.

WHAT’S THE DANGER?

The flu virus is easily spread, mainly through droplets made when someone who has the

flu. Coughs or sneezes into the air. When another person breathes in these droplets, or

touches a Contaminated surface and then touches her eyes, nose or mouth, that person

can become infected. Unfortunately, while many people recover from the flu within a

week or so, some people can develop. Serious complications, which may lead to death.

EXAMPLE

Good old Joe hasn’t taken a sick day in 20 years. Nothing slows him down—not even a

good dose. Of the flu. Sweating, sneezing, coughing and spluttering, he never misses a

beat. But Joe doesn’t. Deserve an award for his unfailing devotion to his job. Less than a

week after Joe’s illness, four of his. Co-workers have called in sick, including Bob, whose

diabetes puts him at risk of developing a serious Complication.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

A healthy workplace is in everyone’s best interests. Here’s how you can help:

Get your flu shot annually and early. A seasonal flu vaccine will protect you against the

three seasonal viruses that health experts believe are most likely to occur that year.

Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. An uncovered cough or a sneeze can spread

airborne droplets of cold or flu germs over several feet. Try to have a tissue handy to

sneeze or cough into. If you don’t have one, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your

hands.

Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth. Your eyes, nose and mouth are

superhighways for germs. Most people aren’t even aware they are touching their own

faces, so make a conscious “hands off” effort and you’ll cut your risk for picking up the

flu.

Wash your hands—frequently—with plenty of soap and warm water. Wash your hands for

at least 15 seconds, paying attention to your fingertips, between your fingers, the bases

Of your thumbs, the backs of your hands and wrists, and your lower arms. Use a paper

towel To turn off the tap and open the bathroom door.

Keep common surfaces sanitized. Germs love to live on door knobs, telephones,

computer

32

Keyboards, microwave ovens, kitchen counters, fridge handles and anywhere else

touched by human hands. Use a germ-killing cleaning product to wipe down surfaces that

are frequently touched by you and your coworkers, especially any shared equipment.

Distance yourself socially during flu season. Unfortunately, winter flu season coincides

with the festive season, when people socialize, shake hands, hug and offer pecks on the

cheeks. But if your workplace has been hit by flu, it’s best to abandon these social

traditions and try to keep physical distance from your co-workers.

Be kind to your immune system: A strong immune system can help you fight off the flu

or a cold or reduce its severity or duration. Eat properly, ensure you are getting enough

vitamins and minerals (either through diet or supplements), exercise several days of the

week and try to get sufficient sleep.

Stay home if you’re sick. You aren’t doing anyone any favors sharing your germs. If you

simply must work, ask if you can work from home while keeping your germs to yourself.

33

SS Social Distancing Policy Procedure

POLICY STATEMENT

During the current COVID-19 pandemic, all persons who enter Lester Group work sites

and facilities must comply with the social distancing requirements set forth in this

Policy. Failure to comply will be grounds for immediate removal from the premises and,

in the event the person who fails to comply is a Lester Group employee, discipline up to

and including termination in accordance with applicable progressive disciplinary

policies and procedures.

PURPOSE

COVID-19 coronavirus is highly contagious and implementing social distancing

practices is essential to prevent its spread. The purpose of this Policy is to establish

clear, fair and specific rules and procedures to ensure that proper social distancing is

maintained at Lester Group worksites in accordance with OHS requirements,

government emergency orders and current public health guidelines (referred to

collectively as “Guidelines”) for as long as the pandemic lasts.

DEFINITIONS

For purposes of this Policy:

“Close contact” means being physically located closer than six feet/two meters to

another person for 10 seconds or longer but less than 15 minutes in a single

encounter;

“COVID-19 symptoms” include cough, fever, sore throat, shortness of breath or

difficulty breathing or sudden loss of smell;

“Social distancing” means maintaining physical separation of at least six feet/two

meters from another person.

SCOPE

The social distancing requirements of this Policy apply not just to Lester Group

employees but to all persons present at Lester Group worksites, including but not

limited to contract workers, suppliers, clients, customers and visitors.

COVID-19 SELF-ISOLATION, QUARANTINE & RETURN TO WORK

Perhaps the most important aspect of social distancing is to ensure that people who

have or at heightened risk of having COVID-19 stay away from the facility so they do

not infect others.

Ban on Working While Sick

You may not come to or remain at work if:

34

You have COVID-19 or COVID-19 symptoms;

You have had dangerous or close contact with a person(s) that has COVID-19 or

COVID-19 symptoms within the past 48 hours; or

You have traveled outside Canada within the past 14 days.

Mandatory Disclosure

You must immediately notify your supervisor if any of the conditions listed above are

true. You must also immediately disclose the names of all co-workers and other persons

with whom you have had dangerous and close contact at the work site or facility within

the past 48 hours.

Immediate Response Measures

Upon receiving the above disclosures or otherwise learning that a person at the

worksite has or was potentially exposed to COVID-19, Lester Group will immediately:

Order that person to leave the worksite;

Notify all individuals who have had prolonged close contact with that person in

the past 48 hours of their own potential exposure and order them to leave and

stay away from the premises;

Use barriers, screens or other reasonably practicable measures to physically

isolate and mark the locations in which the infected person spent extended time

during the past 48 hours from the rest of the facility; and

Have a competent employee using protective gloves, respiratory protection and

other required PPE wash down and disinfect all surfaces, tools, PPE and other

equipment handled by the infected person within the past 48 hours.

Return to Work

If you have been ordered to stay away from or leave the worksite in accordance with the

above, you will not be allowed to return to work until your symptoms completely

disappear in accordance with the isolation and quarantine timelines provided under

current Guidelines.

SOCIAL DISTANCING ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Lester Group Management

Lester Group will be responsible for providing the leadership, resources and direction

to ensure this Policy is implemented and that social distancing is maintained at the

facilities. Measures that will be considered and adopted if determined appropriate and

reasonably practicable include:

The arrangement and configuration of workstations, areas and operations so as to

allow employees to perform their jobs without need for close contact;

Closing off or limiting the seating capacity of meeting rooms, break rooms and

other common areas to prevent large gatherings;

35

Staggering of work schedules to keep the number of persons present at the

facility to the minimum possible; and

The posting of signs reminding people at the facility of the need to maintain

social distancing.

Work from Home

If possible, employees will be able to work from home with the provided expectations

to ensure communication and customer service:

Maintain regular work hours

Take breaks at regular times

Join meetings as usual using Microsoft Teams

Answer phones as normal

Follow deadlines as expected

Supervisors

Supervisors are responsible for the day-to-day implementation of this Policy, including:

Ensuring that all employees receive the necessary training and information they

need to practice social distancing;

Ensuring that all other persons at the worksite are made aware of and required to

comply with this Policy;

Enforcing the terms of this Policy, including via the imposition of discipline in

accordance with applicable progressive disciplinary policies and procedures.

Employees

Employees are responsible for understanding and following the terms of this Policy and

doing their part to maintain social distancing by:

Not coming to work if they feel ill;

Avoiding face-to-face meetings by making maximum use of telephones, online

conferencing, email, instant messaging and other remote methods of

communicating, even with people in the same facility;

Where in-person meetings cannot be avoided, holding them in the largest and best

ventilated room possible while keeping the number of attendees to a minimum;

Refraining from shaking hands, high-fiving or any other forms of physical

contact;

Not congregating in break rooms or other areas where people socialize;

Avoiding unnecessary travel and notifying management of their travel plans, both

business and pleasure;

Eating away from others; and

Reporting any violations of this Policy to their supervisor or other appropriate

Lester Group official.

EMPLOYEE TRACKING LOGS

36

Log Completion & Submission

Upon entering Lester Group worksites for the first time each day, all persons will sign

in on the tracking log sheet, including:

Their name;

Date;

All persons must sign the tracking log sheet before leaving the facilities at the end of

their shift or visit, even if they had no encounter involving dangerous, close or

prolonged close contact during the duration of their stay. Supervisors are responsible

to submit completed logs to their management to hold on file. Visitors, suppliers,

subcontractors etc. must be tracked as well.

Processing of Logs

Supervisors will:

Confirm that each employee on duty at the site that day signed in on the log

sheet; and

Submit for to management to keep on file.

DURATION OF POLICY

This Policy is a temporary measure that will last only as long as the COVID-19 pandemic

and will end once the Guidelines’ social distancing mandate becomes no longer

necessary. In addition, Lester Group reserves the right to modify any and all of the Policy

terms and procedures, including the elimination or addition of requirements, as

Guidelines change over the course of the pandemic.

TRAINING

The requirements of this document shall be reviewed with all employees. Documentation

of all training shall be filed and kept at the main office.

Q.

37

Chapter 4

What does Lester

expect from you?

38

Operating within the “New Normal”

There are many changes to operating within the “new normal”. All of our efforts to

create a safe workspace will not be effective if Employees do not follow the protocols

that are put in place. Thriving under the new normal will take a combined effort of all

of our Employees.

Social Distancing Guidance

Social distancing, also called physical distancing, is a set of measures taken to prevent

the spread of a contagious disease by maintaining a physical distance between people

and reducing the number of times people come into close contact with each other.

This means making changes in your everyday routines in order to minimize close

contact with others including:

Avoiding crowded places and non-essential gatherings

Eliminating contact with others, such as handshakes

Limiting contact with people at higher risk

Avoiding using surfaces touched by others, if possible

Avoiding contact with anyone who appears to be sick or who is coughing or sneezing

The practice of social distancing includes, but is not limited to production lines,

cafeterias, common areas, entrances, washrooms and offices. These are examples, but

the principle of social distancing is universally applicable.

Start-Up Meetings

To ensure social distancing, start-up meetings will have no more than 3 Employees,

times may be staggered for larger groups

Room Capacity and Cleanliness

Disinfect the counter area prior to use.

Do not exceed the capacity of the break room. (one person)

39

Chapter 5

Who can you talk

to if you have any

questions?

40

Supporting Mental Health

To ensure that all Employees feel supported, it is critical to communicate regularly.

If you have any questions or concerns, there are many different ways you can get the

information you need:

Ask your Team Leader or Manager

Contact Human Resources

Ensure your email address is on file to receive Company communications via

email.

Use trustworthy websites such as:

www.publichealthontario.ca

www.canada.ca

www.who.int

www.cdc.gov

www.cmha.ca

It is also important to acknowledge that some

Employees may struggle with change and be worried

about the consequences of the pandemic. Here is some

information with strategies to promote positive mental

health while adapting to the “new normal”

Coping During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Everyone reacts differently to stressful

situations

The emotional impact of an unusual or urgent situation depends on the person’s

characteristics and experiences, their social and economic circumstances, and the

availability of local resources. It is normal to feel sad, distressed, worried, confused,

scared or angry when experiencing a situation such as COVID-19. However, signs of

severe emotional distress, such as persistent insomnia, interpersonal problems,

disabling fear, increased use of alcohol or recreational drugs, indicate you should

reach out for help.

Reactions during an infectious disease outbreak can include:

41

Fear and worry about your own health status and that of your loved ones who may

have been exposed to COVID-19.

Changes in sleep or eating patterns.

Difficultly sleeping or concentrating.

Worsening of chronic health problems.

Increased use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs.

Feelings of helplessness, boredom, loneliness and depression due to being isolated.

Common symptoms of other health problems (allergies) that can be mistaken for

COVID-19 and lead to fear of being infected.

Some people may become more distressed if they see repeated images or hear

repeated reports about the outbreak in the media.

Some of these fears and reactions spring from a realistic understanding of the

dangers, but many reactions and behaviors are also fed by rumors and

misinformation.

Some people may have positive experiences, such as pride in their contributions and

finding ways of coping and resilience. Community members often experience great

satisfaction from helping others.

Things you can do to support yourself and your family:

Stay informed, but avoid excessive exposure to media coverage of COVID-19.

Periodically check the news and recommendations from trusted sites. Take breaks

from watching, reading or listening to news stories. It can be upsetting to hear about

the crisis on a constant stream.

Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate. Try to eat healthy,

well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep and avoid excessive

alcohol or recreational drugs.

Accept that there may be disappointment or frustration at changing plans such as

cancelled or postponed vacations or family visits. Acknowledge and accept strong

emotions.

Try to stick to a routine as much as possible, create new ones to get through this

period. If possible, make opportunities for children to play and relax.

Connect with others in your social networks virtually through e-mail, phone calls or

social media. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family

member. Maintain healthy relationships.

Draw on skills that you have used in the past during difficult times to manage your

emotions during this outbreak. Relaxation techniques may work for some people,

others may find engaging in enjoyable hobbies or activities is effective.

Maintain a sense of hope and positive thinking.

Focus on the positive aspects of your life and things you can control. For situations

that are beyond your control, you may want to shift your emotional response by

42

distracting yourself with another task (cooking or cleaning), going for a walk or

taking a bath.

Stay prepared and apply social distancing and preventative measures such as

frequent hand washing and cough etiquette.

Your mental health is just as important as your

physical health. Below are links to free tools to help

you and your loved ones cope with the stresses of

COVID-19:

https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-and-covid-19

http://ontario.cmha.ca/news/cmha-offers-tips-to-support-mental-health-amid-

concerns-of-covid-19-pandemic/

https://thelifelinecanada.ca/help/crisis-centres/canadian-crisis-centres/

Please come to HR to learn about how you can utilize the Employee Assistance

Program (EAP) through Cornerstone.

43

Chapter 6

Visual Aids

44

45

46

47

48