Dear Members,
Please refer to the updates and information below regarding the COVID-19 outbreak.
Occupational Health and Safety during COVID-19
Below is a list of links containing additional workplace health and safety information during the COVID-19 outbreak:
- CUPE National General Occupational Guidelines
- Provincial Health Officer Orders, Notices, and Guidance Documents: A number of industry specific guidance documents are available to provide clarity on what is expected from employers during the COVID-19 outbreak.
- WorkSafe BC Information on COVID-19
- Section G3.12 of the WorkSafe BC Occupational Health and Safety guidelines, guaranteeing the right to refuse unsafe work.
Employment Insurance, Sick Pay, and Other Benefits
Please find a list of available resources below to assist members during the COVID-19 outbreak:
- Canada Emergency Response Benefit: Provides $2000/month for up to four months to workers who have lost their job, are still employed but not earning income, are sick or quarantined, must care for someone who is sick or quarantined, or must care for a child. Workers whom are employees, the self-employed, and contract workers are all eligible. The CERB does not negate EI benefits. Applications will be open in early April.
- Federal Employment Insurance (EI) Application
- Summary of Income supports for workers (CUPE National). Another EI Factsheet can be found on the BCGEU website.
- Information on the BC Hydro Customer Crisis Fund: For those struggling to pay utility bills.
- Translink Fare Suspensions on bus system
- A comprehensive list of supports compiled by the Broadbent Institute
- A how-to guide to all of the available government support programs, by Professor Jennifer Robson
Be Safe, Stay Strong
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