News & Resources
The latest Thompson Okanagan tourism industry news from TOTA, tourism businesses, and communities.
BCRTS COVID-19 Tourism Impact Survey Final Report
The following report is a summary of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the visitor economy in British Columbia from April 2020 to December 2021. This report is intended to share the experiences of the visitor economy as BCRTS stakeholders persevered through one of the most challenging periods in the province’s history. The experience of the visitor economy during this challenging time contains many lessons for partners and stakeholders on navigating future events, impacts, and crises.
The BC Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) released the final B.C. COVID-19 Tourism Impact Survey 2020-2021 Report, which summarizes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on British Columbia’s visitor economy from April 2020 to December 2021. The report outlines survey responses from B.C. tourism companies in order to share the experiences through one of the most challenging periods in recent history and lessons to navigate future events, impacts, and crises.
Survey questions were developed through a collaborative process, with a mix of core questions that repeated across surveys, as well as one-off or temporary questions designed to inform context-specific events or policies.
Over the course of the 21-month period, BCRTS collected 7,952 responses from 3,849 different visitor economy stakeholders.1,023 participants (13%) operated in the Thompson Okanagan region. The survey heard from many different types of tourism operators across the province, including: accommodation, food and beverage, activities, retail, transportation, visitor centres, Indigenous and non indigenous owned businesses, as well as several others.
Reports were published regularly to share data visualizations and analysis of responses on a provincial and regional level and informed BCRTS in its advocacy and support of the visitor economy over the course of the pandemic.
Recommendations
The BCRTS developed a unique perspective on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the visitor economy through its survey program and other advocacy. This perspective has equipped BCRTS with the knowledge and expertise necessary to make recommendations on how to best navigate future crises.
Recommendations for industry include:
Digitalization and fully developed outreach programs are essential to relief program success.
Insurance solutions specifically tailored by industry would provide greater protection for industry members during times of crisis.
Recommendations for government and other policymakers include:
There exists a need to develop scenario analysis and crisis management plans for future crises.
Access to government-backed credit would increase the coping abilities of the most affected firms in times of crisis.
Programs that are designed to support individuals create distortions for industry when they penalize workers that choose to continue working in the service sector.
View Full Report →
About the British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat:
The British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat (BCRTS) is an active collaboration between the five tourism regions of Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association, Northern BC Tourism Association, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, and 4VI (formerly Tourism Vancouver Island). In March 2020, BCRTS members collaborated to better understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on B.C. tourism businesses and developed the BC Tourism Resiliency Network to support the tourism industry.
For more information, contact:
Chelsea Travere
Communications Specialist
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
E: Chelsea@TOTABC.com
Ellen Walker-Matthews
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association (TOTA)
E: CEO@TOTABC.com
Border Restrictions to Enter Canada Extended to Sept. 30
The federal government announced Wednesday all existing border restrictions to enter Canada will remain in place until at least Sept. 30.
The federal government announced Wednesday all existing border restrictions to enter Canada will remain in place until at least Sept. 30.
That means foreign travellers will still need to provide proof of being fully vaccinated to enter the country and unvaccinated Canadians or permanent residents will need to provide a molecular COVID-19 test taken prior to entering and quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. The government is also still requiring all travellers, regardless of citizenship, to upload their vaccine information and travel documents to the ArriveCan app. The restrictions were last extended on May 31.
Vaccine Mandates for Domestic Travellers, Transportation Workers & Federal Employees Suspended as of June 20, 2022
The government announced that as of June 20, 2022, the vaccination requirements are suspended for domestic and outbound travel, federally regulated transportation sectors and federal government employees.
The key impacts to travellers and transportation workers are:
As of June 20, the vaccination requirement to board a plane or a train in Canada will be suspended.
Federally regulated transport sector employers will no longer be required to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees.
Due to the unique nature of cruise ship travel, vaccination requirements for passengers and crew of cruise ships will continue to remain in effect.
Masking and other public health protection measures will continue to be in place and enforced on planes, trains, and ships.
Current border measures, including the existing vaccination requirement for most foreign nationals to enter Canada, and quarantine and testing requirements for Canadians who have not received their primary vaccine series, remain in effect.
The government announced that as of June 20, 2022, the vaccination requirements are suspended for domestic and outbound travel, federally regulated transportation sectors and federal government employees.
The key impacts to travellers and transportation workers are:
As of June 20, the vaccination requirement to board a plane or a train in Canada will be suspended.
Federally regulated transport sector employers will no longer be required to have mandatory vaccination policies in place for employees.
Due to the unique nature of cruise ship travel, vaccination requirements for passengers and crew of cruise ships will continue to remain in effect.
Masking and other public health protection measures will continue to be in place and enforced on planes, trains, and ships.
Current border measures, including the existing vaccination requirement for most foreign nationals to enter Canada, and quarantine and testing requirements for Canadians who have not received their primary vaccine series, remain in effect.
Random COVID-19 Testing at Canadian Airports for Vaccinated Travellers Dropped
Random testing at airports will be temporarily suspended at all airports starting on June 11 to 30. Only unvaccinated travellers will be required to take a test upon entry into Canada. The change is being called a “pause,” with the possibility that it could return.
Travellers who don’t meet the vaccine requirements may be turned away at the border, or be required to quarantine for 14 days or until their departure.
Click here for up to date information on COVID 19 travel testing and borders.
Random testing at airports will be temporarily suspended at all airports starting on June 11 to 30. Only unvaccinated travellers will be required to take a test upon entry into Canada. The change is being called a “pause,” with the possibility that it could return.
Travellers who don’t meet the vaccine requirements may be turned away at the border, or be required to quarantine for 14 days or until their departure.
Click here for up to date information on COVID 19 travel testing and borders.
Travel by Canadians Continues to be Limited Since Pandemic
A recent survey conducted by Abacus Data summarized that travel still isn’t ‘back to normal’ in the eyes of Canadians, and this feeling continues to drive travel desires. More Canadians now believe it’s possible to travel without feeling like we are living in a pandemic (1 in 4), but three quarters still believe that if they want to travel in the next few months, it will feel like ‘pandemic travel’.
A recent survey conducted by Abacus Data summarized that travel still isn’t ‘back to normal’ in the eyes of Canadians, and this feeling continues to drive travel desires. More Canadians now believe it’s possible to travel without feeling like we are living in a pandemic (1 in 4), but three quarters still believe that if they want to travel in the next few months, it will feel like ‘pandemic travel’.
The majority also say this feeling will prevent them from making plans. 44% of Canadians say if they want to travel in the next few months, it will feel like travelling in a pandemic and that just isn’t something they are interested in. However, travel within Canada is looking up.
Additional highlights include:
48% say travelling to another province in the country already feels normal (a 38-point jump since October 2021)
Canadians are still far more likely to be exploring our own backyard and travel within one’s own province continues to be the most likely destination.
39% of Canadians are comfortable spending money on travel and leisure while 61% would prefer to hold off and wait to spend on travel since things are getting more expensive.
COVID Border Measures to Remain in Place at Least Another Month
Health Canada made an announcement earlier today stating the Government of Canada is extending current border measures for travellers entering Canada until at least June 30, 2022. Several pandemic restrictions are in place at Canadian airports and land borders, including vaccine mandates, random COVID-19 tests and the requirement that international travellers answer pandemic-related questions on the ArriveCan app. Travellers must also wear masks on planes and passenger trains. The specific restrictions vary depending on travellers’ age, citizenship, and vaccination status.
Health Canada made an announcement earlier today stating the Government of Canada is extending current border measures for travellers entering Canada until at least June 30, 2022.
Several pandemic restrictions are in place at Canadian airports and land borders, including vaccine mandates, random COVID-19 tests and the requirement that international travellers answer pandemic-related questions on the ArriveCan app. Travellers must also wear masks on planes and passenger trains. The specific restrictions vary depending on travellers’ age, citizenship and vaccination status.
As for when the mandates will be lifted, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said he doesn’t know but the government is consulting with experts and other jurisdictions.
Government of Canada announces additional easing of border measures effective April 25
The Government of Canada announced further changes to Canada's border measures for certain eligible travellers. Effective April 25, 2022, the following easing of border measures will come into effect:
Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children aged 5-11 who are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent, step-parent, guardian or tutor will no longer be required to complete a pre-entry COVID-19 test for entry to Canada.
Pre-entry tests will still be required for partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers 12 and older who are currently eligible to travel to Canada. Children under 5 years of age are not required to provide a COVID-19 test result.
All fully vaccinated travellers will no longer be required to provide a quarantine plan upon entry. This requirement will also be removed for children aged 5-11 who are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent, step-parent, guardian, or tutor and travellers with a medical contraindication to a COVID-19 vaccine.
Furthermore, fully vaccinated travellers arriving to Canada after April 25, 2022, will no longer be federally required to do the following for 14 days after arriving:
mask while in public spaces;
monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms;
quarantine if another traveller in the same travel group exhibits signs or symptoms or tests positive; and
maintain a list of close contacts and locations visited.
All travellers are still required to use ArriveCAN (free mobile app or website) to provide mandatory travel information within 72 hours of their arrival to Canada and/or before boarding a plane or cruise ship destined for Canada.
The Government of Canada announced further changes to Canada's border measures for certain eligible travellers. Effective April 25, 2022, the following easing of border measures will come into effect:
Unvaccinated or partially vaccinated children aged 5-11 who are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent, step-parent, guardian or tutor will no longer be required to complete a pre-entry COVID-19 test for entry to Canada.
Pre-entry tests will still be required for partially vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers 12 and older who are currently eligible to travel to Canada. Children under 5 years of age are not required to provide a COVID-19 test result.
All fully vaccinated travellers will no longer be required to provide a quarantine plan upon entry. This requirement will also be removed for children aged 5-11 who are accompanied by a fully vaccinated parent, step-parent, guardian, or tutor and travellers with a medical contraindication to a COVID-19 vaccine.
Furthermore, fully vaccinated travellers arriving to Canada after April 25, 2022, will no longer be federally required to do the following for 14 days after arriving:
mask while in public spaces;
monitor and report if they develop signs or symptoms;
quarantine if another traveller in the same travel group exhibits signs or symptoms or tests positive; and
maintain a list of close contacts and locations visited.
All travellers are still required to use ArriveCAN (free mobile app or website) to provide mandatory travel information within 72 hours of their arrival to Canada and/or before boarding a plane or cruise ship destined for Canada.
Canada Masking Guidelines for Travel Still in Effect
Canada’s Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said masking guidelines while travelling still apply, as the US moves to drop its national mandate.
Currently in Canada, travellers must wear a mask or face covering while travelling through Canadian airports and for the duration of flights. Air operators are required to notify passengers of the rule and receive confirmation that everyone has a face covering.
Transport Canada says travellers should also wear a mask or face covering while travelling in groups by rail, road, and water.
To support the new border measures in place as of April 1, the Canada Border Services Agency has produced videos to ensure travellers are aware of the current requirements in place and arrive prepared at the border or airport.
The tourism industry is encouraged to share these videos with your network to help facilitate a smooth travel experience for visitors.
Canada’s Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said masking guidelines while travelling still apply, as the US moves to drop its national mandate.
Currently in Canada, travellers must wear a mask or face covering while travelling through Canadian airports and for the duration of flights. Air operators are required to notify passengers of the rule and receive confirmation that everyone has a face covering.
Transport Canada says travellers should also wear a mask or face covering while travelling in groups by rail, road, and water.
To support the new border measures in place as of April 1, the Canada Border Services Agency has produced videos to ensure travellers are aware of the current requirements in place and arrive prepared at the border or airport.
The tourism industry is encouraged to share these videos with your network to help facilitate a smooth travel experience for visitors.
US Lowers Risk Level For Travel To Canada
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has moved Canada down from Level 4 to Level 3 category of travel risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is no longer warning Americans to avoid travel to Canada because of the coronavirus. In an update to its travel health notices on April 4, the US public health agency said the level of COVI-19 in Canada is “high” rather than “very high”; it had been at Level 4 since Jan. 10, 2022.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has moved Canada down from Level 4 to Level 3 category of travel risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is no longer warning Americans to avoid travel to Canada because of the coronavirus.
In an update to its travel health notices on April 4, the US public health agency said the level of COVI-19 in Canada is “high” rather than “very high”; it had been at Level 4 since Jan. 10, 2022.
Level 3: High level of COVID-19 means:
Make sure you are fully vaccinated before travel.
Unvaccinated travelers should avoid nonessential travel to this destination.
BC Proof of Vaccination & COVID Safety Plans Requirements Lifted as of April 8, 2022
As of April 8, 2022 further restrictions were lifted in the Province of BC, including:
Proof of vaccination will no longer be required under public health order to access businesses, events, and services
Individual businesses and event organizers can choose to continue requiring proof of vaccination for entry
Businesses will no longer need a COVID-19 safety plan. They must follow communicable disease guidance from WorkSafeBC
Federal proof of vaccination is still required for federally regulated travel, like air travel
Proof of vaccination will no longer be required for post-secondary student housing
As of April 8, 2022 further restrictions were lifted in the Province of BC, including:
Proof of vaccination will no longer be required under public health order to access businesses, events, and services
Individual businesses and event organizers can choose to continue requiring proof of vaccination for entry
Businesses will no longer need a COVID-19 safety plan. They must follow communicable disease guidance from WorkSafeBC
Federal proof of vaccination is still required for federally regulated travel, like air travel
Proof of vaccination will no longer be required for post-secondary student housing
Canada Drops Pre-Arrival COVID-19 Testing For Vaccinated Travelers
Effective April 1, 2022, the federal government officially removed all pre-arrival COVID-19 testing requirements at the border for vaccinated travellers.
Key changes include:
Fully vaccinated travellers do not need to complete a pre-entry test (they may still be selected for random tests on arrival but are not required to quarantine).
Non vaccinated travellers will still need an on-arrival test and a day 8 test and must quarantine for 14 days.
ArriveCAN is still needed for entry to Canada by all travellers.
Effective April 1, 2022, the federal government officially removed all pre-arrival COVID-19 testing requirements at the border for vaccinated travellers.
Key changes include:
Fully vaccinated travellers do not need to complete a pre-entry test (they may still be selected for random tests on arrival but are not required to quarantine).
Non vaccinated travellers will still need an on-arrival test and a day 8 test and must quarantine for 14 days.
ArriveCAN is still needed for entry to Canada by all travellers.
Half of Canadians Anxious About the End of COVID-19 Mandates
With most COVID-related restrictions now lifted across Canada, a survey from Research Co. has 52% of Canadians admitting to being “very anxious” or “moderately anxious” about the end of public health mandates in their province, including 53% of BC respondents.
43% of British Columbians believe “recent protests and blockades related to the COVID-19 pandemic” can claim “a great deal” or “a fair amount” of the credit for pandemic restrictions being rolled back.
Nearly two-thirds (65%) of respondents across the country said they plan to continue wearing masks in indoor settings, but in BC only 59% plan to do so, the lowest percentage of provinces polled.
With most COVID-related restrictions now lifted across Canada, a survey from Research Co. has 52% of Canadians admitting to being “very anxious” or “moderately anxious” about the end of public health mandates in their province, including 53% of BC respondents.
43% of British Columbians believe “recent protests and blockades related to the COVID-19 pandemic” can claim “a great deal” or “a fair amount” of the credit for pandemic restrictions being rolled back.
Nearly two-thirds (65%) of respondents across the country said they plan to continue wearing masks in indoor settings, but in BC only 59% plan to do so, the lowest percentage of provinces polled.
Rapid tests for people 18+ available at pharmacies
Starting Wednesday, March 23, 2022, rapid antigen test kits will be available to people aged 18 years and older through community pharmacies.
Eligible individuals can pick up one kit of five tests every 28 days from participating pharmacies at no cost.
Individuals should pick up a test kit when not having symptoms of illness to use at a future time when having symptoms of illness. Guidelines for testing continue to indicate tests should be used for symptomatic individuals.
Starting Wednesday, March 23, 2022, rapid antigen test kits will be available to people aged 18 years and older through community pharmacies.
Eligible individuals can pick up one kit of five tests every 28 days from participating pharmacies at no cost.
Individuals should pick up a test kit when not having symptoms of illness to use at a future time when having symptoms of illness. Guidelines for testing continue to indicate tests should be used for symptomatic individuals.
Share Feedback on BC Pandemic Response | Submit by April 20, 2022
The Province is launching an independent review and public consultation on government’s operational response to the COVID-19 pandemic to better inform preparations and responses to future emergencies and ensure British Columbians are protected.
Until April 20, people in British Columbia can provide written feedback about how they, or their business/organization, have been affected by government’s operational measures and communication throughout the pandemic.
A report with a comprehensive summary of the findings is expected by fall.
The Province is launching an independent review and public consultation on government’s operational response to the COVID-19 pandemic to better inform preparations and responses to future emergencies and ensure British Columbians are protected.
The goal is to learn about how government agencies worked together to address the effects of COVID-19 that affected everyone, changed rapidly and continues to cause a high level of uncertainty.
The review will include what aspects of preparedness, engagement, communications and implementation worked well, what changes were made to improve operational effectiveness as the pandemic evolved, and what improvements can be made to better prepare for pandemics and emergencies.
Until April 20, people in British Columbia can provide written feedback about how they, or their business/organization, have been affected by government’s operational measures and communication throughout the pandemic.
A report with a comprehensive summary of the findings is expected by fall.
B.C. Launches Plan to Revitalize Tourism, Creating Opportunities for People
B.C. has launched a new three-year roadmap for rebuilding and revitalizing tourism, creating jobs and opportunities for people and communities in every part of the province.
The renewed Strategic Framework for Tourism responds to the call to action from the sector to support its recovery from COVID-19. It outlines a roadmap for a more resilient tourism sector by rebuilding to 2019 levels by 2024.
B.C. has launched a new three-year roadmap for rebuilding and revitalizing tourism, creating jobs and opportunities for people and communities in every part of the province.
The renewed Strategic Framework for Tourism responds to the call to action from the sector to support its recovery from COVID-19. It outlines a roadmap for a more resilient tourism sector by rebuilding to 2019 levels by 2024.
Requested by B.C.’s tourism industry leaders and the Tourism Task Force, the update of this framework focuses on provincial priorities of putting people first; lasting and meaningful reconciliation; equity and anti-racism; a better future through fighting climate change; and a strong, sustainable economy that works for everyone.
To continue to support tourism businesses in B.C. to come back stronger, the Province is investing $1 million toward investments in event-bid preparation and sponsorships to attract large-scale arts, culture, and sport events, and public conferences and exhibitions.
Investing now in event programs will kick-start the events industry’s recovery and will position B.C. as a safe, world-class, event-hosting jurisdiction once again. This is in addition to the $8 million government recently announced for the Business Events and Conferences Restart Fund to help restart business travel by attracting and hosting business events, conferences and exhibitions.
The Tourism Task Force emphasized how challenging it has been for industry to find the skilled workers it needs. This is why government is investing a further $2 million for post-secondary education and training to support B.C. students who enrol in tourism and hospitality certificate, diploma or degree programs, tourism-related apprenticeships, and trades training and development programs. This program, will prioritize students who are Indigenous, immigrant, or refugee applicants, as well as those from rural or remote locations, and people with accessibility needs. More details will be provided soon.
As part of the Province’s continuing tourism recovery initiatives, government has committed $6 million this year through 2024 for Destination BC to market B.C. as a destination of choice in the highly competitive international market.
This funding builds on the $570 million the B.C. government has invested in recovery supports for the tourism sector, including the Small and Medium Sized Business Recovery Grant and the Circuit Breaker Business Relief Grant that are providing funding to nearly 8,200 tourism and hospitality businesses.
B.C. Lifting Mask Requirement on March 11, 2022
Starting March 11, 2022 at 12:01 am, because of B.C.'s lowered hospitalization and transmission rates, these activities can return to normal: masks no longer required in public indoor settings under a public health order; no restrictions on worship service capacity; and overnight camps for children and youth are allowed. By March 18, there will be no visitor limits at long-term care and seniors' assisted living facilities. When K to 12 schools return from spring break, masks will no longer be required for students, staff and visitors. On April 8, 2022 at 12:01 am, further restrictions will be lifted: proof of vaccination will no longer be required to access businesses, events and services; businesses will no longer need a COVID-19 safety plan but must follow communicable disease guidance from WorkSafeBC; and proof of vaccination will no longer be required for post-secondary student housing.
Starting March 11, 2022 at 12:01 am, because of B.C.'s lowered hospitalization and transmission rates, these activities can return to normal:
Masks no longer required in public indoor settings under a public health order
Masks are encouraged on public transit and BC Ferries, but not required
Individual businesses and event organizers can choose to continue requiring masks on their premises
Masks are still required for federally regulated travel, like air travel
No restrictions on worship service capacity
Overnight camps for children and youth allowed
By March 18, there will be no visitor limits at long-term care and seniors' assisted living facilities.
When K to 12 schools return from spring break, masks will no longer be required for students, staff and visitors.
On April 8, 2022 at 12:01 am, further restrictions will be lifted:
Proof of vaccination will no longer be required to access businesses, events and services
Individual businesses and event organizers can choose to continue requiring proof of vaccination for entry
Proof of vaccination is still required for federally regulated travel, like air travel
Businesses will no longer need a COVID-19 safety plan. They must follow communicable disease guidance from WorkSafeBC
Proof of vaccination will no longer be required for post-secondary student housing
Rapid Tests for People 60+ at Pharmacies
Rapid antigen test kits are now available through community pharmacies to people aged 60 and older. Eligible individuals can pick up one kit containing five tests every 28 days from participating pharmacies at no cost. Individuals should pick up a test kit when they are asymptomatic to use at a future time when they have symptoms.
Rapid antigen test kits are now available through community pharmacies to people aged 60 and older.
Eligible individuals can pick up one kit containing five tests every 28 days from participating pharmacies at no cost. Individuals must present their personal health number when picking up the kit or, if others are picking up kits on their behalf, in addition to the individual’s name and personal health number, date of birth must also be supplied.
Individuals should pick up a test kit when they are asymptomatic to use at a future time when they have symptoms. B.C. is expecting to receive an additional 9 million tests from the federal government, which will support the province’s strategy to further distribute tests to members of the broader community.
REMINDER | Lightened Border Measures Now in Effect
A reminder that effective Monday, February 28, Canada will be transitioning to a new phase at the border.
All fully vaccinated travellers arriving in Canada may be randomly selected for testing. However, they will no longer be required to quarantine while awaiting their test result.
Children under 12 years old, travelling with fully vaccinated adults, will be exempt from quarantine without any prescribed conditions limiting their activities.
Travellers will now have the option to use a COVID-19 rapid antigen test result or a molecular test result to satisfy pre-entry requirements.
The Government of Canada will adjust its Travel Health Notice from Level 3 to Level 2. This means that government will no longer recommend Canadians avoid travel for non-essential purposes.
International flights carrying passengers will be permitted to land at all Canadian airports that are designated by the Canada Border Services Agency to receive international passenger flights.
Travellers should understand the risks that are still associated with international travel given the high incidence of Omicron, and take necessary precautions.
A reminder that effective Monday, February 28, Canada will be transitioning to a new phase at the border.
All fully vaccinated travellers arriving in Canada may be randomly selected for testing. However, they will no longer be required to quarantine while awaiting their test result.
Children under 12 years old, travelling with fully vaccinated adults, will be exempt from quarantine without any prescribed conditions limiting their activities.
Travellers will now have the option to use a COVID-19 rapid antigen test result or a molecular test result to satisfy pre-entry requirements.
The Government of Canada will adjust its Travel Health Notice from Level 3 to Level 2. This means that government will no longer recommend Canadians avoid travel for non-essential purposes.
International flights carrying passengers will be permitted to land at all Canadian airports that are designated by the Canada Border Services Agency to receive international passenger flights.
Travellers should understand the risks that are still associated with international travel given the high incidence of Omicron, and take necessary precautions.
PHO Order on Workplace Safety Updated
The provincial health officer (PHO) has updated the Provincial Health Officer Order on Workplace Safety, to support the transition of employees back into the workplace.
The requirement for employers to allow workers to work from their private residence, if possible, has been lifted.
All workplaces must continue to have COVID-19 safety plans in place, and the PHO’s Face Coverings Order continues to apply to some workplaces.
The Province and the PHO recognize that every workplace is different. Many workplaces will be able to transition to in-person work again quickly. Others may wish to continue with remote or hybrid models. Workplaces and businesses are encouraged to choose the option that works best for them.
The provincial health officer (PHO) has updated the Provincial Health Officer Order on Workplace Safety, to support the transition of employees back into the workplace.
The requirement for employers to allow workers to work from their private residence, if possible, has been lifted.
All workplaces must continue to have COVID-19 safety plans in place, and the PHO’s Face Coverings Order continues to apply to some workplaces.
The Province and the PHO recognize that every workplace is different. Many workplaces will be able to transition to in-person work again quickly. Others may wish to continue with remote or hybrid models. Workplaces and businesses are encouraged to choose the option that works best for them.
Updated Destination BC Messaging Guidance on How to Travel in BC This Winter
Both federal and provincial updates to current COVID-19 restrictions and border measures are now reflected in Destination BC’s Winter Travel Guide, which provides key messaging, information and infographics, and resources for BC’s tourism industry as it relates to travel to and within BC.
Visitors will need to know what rules, recommendations and expectations are in place in BC to keep them, our residents, and our businesses safe, as they travel BC this winter. Refer people to Destination BC’s Know Before You Go page for the latest information; update any info on your site to reflect the latest recommendations.
Both federal and provincial updates to current COVID-19 restrictions and border measures are now reflected in Destination BC’s Winter Travel Guide, which provides key messaging, information and infographics, and resources for BC’s tourism industry as it relates to travel to and within BC.
Visitors will need to know what rules, recommendations and expectations are in place in BC to keep them, our residents, and our businesses safe, as they travel BC this winter. Refer people to Destination BC’s Know Before You Go page for the latest information; update any info on your site to reflect the latest recommendations.