VBF: International work issues and concern about a second wave of Covid-19
Our Virtual Breakfast Forum today revolved around international (US) work issues and concerns about a second wave of COVID-19.
While the border to the United States is closed for non-essential travel, members have been identifying concerns within their organizations with this closure not being good for business. Customers are impacted, skilled personnel and physical resources are scarce. The US has been enormously impacted and there seems to be no end in sight. Members are keeping a close eye on how the pandemic is impacting our neighbours to the south and preparing for the possibility of a second wave in BC. There is also a concern about travel to other areas across the country and many people prefer to stay close to home.
Many jobs have been and will continue to be impacted. Automation is replacing tasks otherwise being performed by humans. This seems to be increasing production efficiency as well as human safety in some dangerous conditions. Working from home is becoming preferable for many people and regardless of what happens, it seems that some prefer to not go back. If you are bringing staff back it is important to have an MOU of the tasks that they are expected to perform, and have this documented and signed off by the returning staff.
Many members also commented on having had very positive experiences working with WorksafeBC during COVID-19.
As we enter into the summer months, we’ll be hosting one meeting per month for July and August. July 9th will be a special guest speaker, Andrea Zwack, who will talk about legal issues arising from the pandemic. Included in this will be the Temporary Layoff period, union issues, protected leave, workers who don’t want to return to work and WBC requirements.
