Safety is our number one priority!
Here is an overview on what we have implemented/changed during this pandemic. We have been navigating through the new “normal” since the beginning Covid-19 and we have adjusted our program to ensure the safety of our volunteers, trades, charity partners, and staff.
Our spring project for at risk young moms and their children was originally scheduled for 6 weeks but was extended to 7 months from April to November. This was done to ensure social distancing with less people on site. In May we started with only 5 on site and are slowly moving towards 15 people, re-evaluating as we go. We have been able to increase the numbers safely because we are now working in multiple zones around the site.
All recommendation by health officials and have implemented with Covid-19 related PPE and enhanced cleaning protocols, especially with tools and high touch areas. While working in the HeroWork renovation site, everyone must adhere to the following health and safety directives:
- If any staff member, volunteer, or contractor feels ill or shows any signs of sickness, they are required to stay home and not to come to the job site.
- All volunteers, visitors, or contracts must check-in, no exceptions. We have also introduced digital forms to make our check-in and safety presentation contactless.
- There will be clear posting of Covid-19 protocols on the site.
- Volunteers and staff are asked to try and maintain distance apart from each other. If they are required to work in closer proximity for any period of time, masks can be worn.
- Work zones will be divided into areas that allow for social distancing.
- Volunteers and contractors will receive training on Covid-19 protocols, including sanitizing tools and equipment.
- If anyone feels safer wearing a mask at any time, they will be provided with one.
- Hand washing facilities, disinfectants, masks, and other appropriate PPE’s will be readily available for any person on the job site.
- When coughing or sneezing people are required to:
- Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the bend of their arm, not their hand;
- Dispose of any tissues they have used as soon as possible in a lined waste basket and wash their hands afterwards.
- Staff will clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, including all reusable PPE and tools.
- Do not share supplies or personal items or supplies such as phones, pens, notebooks, PPE, etc. If an item needs to be shared, we ask to use sanitizer/wash hands and the object after use.
- Avoid common physical greetings, such as handshakes and hugs.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the washroom, when preparing food, and after blowing nose, coughing, or sneezing. If hands are not visibly soiled, and soap and water are unavailable, alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used.
- Staff are to inform volunteers over 60 years of age, or people with other health conditions like diabetes or cancer, that they are at higher risk of COVID-19 having more serious implications.
- If a person on site needs first aid that requires a first aid attendant to infringe the physical distance requirements of this Covid-19 Policy, the first aid attendant will wear a mask and disposable gloves.
- HeroWork staff will continue to track and monitor our Covid-19 protocol compliance.
As new direction comes from our Health Officials we will review and adjust our protocols as needed until the threat of Covid-19 has been eliminated and we can return to our normal operations.
Any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to me!
Elizabeth (Liz) Soutar – Volunteer & Event Manager
liz.soutar@herowork.com Cell: (250) 882-7999
