‘We’re asking every business that’s able to be open to participate’
Ontario has launched a new rapid testing portal under the Provincial Antigen Screening Program to make it easier for all essential businesses to access free rapid testing.
The program provides free rapid antigen screening kits to help screen for asymptomatic cases of COVID-19 that might otherwise be missed.
The province also expanded eligibility for the program to include any business that is allowed to be open and requires staff to work on-site.
“We’re asking every business that’s able to be open, and particularly those in hot spots, to participate,” says Vic Fedeli, minister of economic development, job creation and trade.
Canadian HR Reporter spoke with an expert earlier about what HR should consider when bringing in rapid testing for workers.
Through the Provincial Antigen Screening Program – run jointly by the Ontario government and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce – the province has already delivered more than nine million rapid testing kits to nearly 1,600 workplaces. Test shipments to essential businesses have more than tripled since the beginning of April, according to the provincial government.
The initiative has already proved to be successful, according to the government. In just two weeks, Ontario has received orders for more than 850,000 rapid tests and is quickly delivering them to small- and medium-sized businesses in more than 40 communities across the province.
Companies such as Ellis Don and Rogers have seen success in adopting rapid testing for employees.
Alberta
Alberta is also offering rapid antigen testing kits to all chambers of commerce provincewide to help identify pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic cases and isolate them early. This program allows local businesses to work directly with local chamber staff, according to the government.
“This partnership gives businesses another leg up to move our economy forward. By making it easier to access rapid testing kits when and where they need them, we are providing businesses with a vital tool to protect their workers and the Albertans they serve,” says Premier Jason Kenney.
After local chambers sign an agreement, Alberta Health will provide rapid tests and a pre-approved screening plan. Businesses will need to report back to their local chamber weekly about the number of tests performed, the number of positive tests and the number of positive results confirmed by PCR testing. This information will be shared with Alberta Health.
However, rapid tests should not replace precautionary measures against COVID-19, says Kelly O’Ferrall, a labour and employment lawyer at Osler in Toronto.
