Covid 19 Screening Tool for Workplaces - Requirements for Ontario Businesses

Updated:
April 23, 2021

The Ontario government recently amended Ontario Regulation 364/20, Rules for Areas in Stage 3 in response to the rise of COVID-19 cases. As a result, organizations in Ontario must now follow advice, recommendations and instructions issued by the Ministry of Health on screening for COVID-19.

(3) The person responsible for a business or organization that is open shall operate the business or organization in compliance with the advice, recommendations and instructions issued by the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health on screening individuals.

COVID-19 Screening Tool for Workplaces

The Ministry of Health recommends the use of the Covid-19 Worker and Employee Screening. The screening tool includes questions to determine whether an individual has symptoms of COVID-19, has recently travelled outside of the country or has been in close contact with someone who may have COVID-19.

Who to Screen

Organizations must screen all employees and essential visitors (e.g., couriers and maintenance workers). Screening must be conducted before or immediately upon arrival at the workplace each day. Customers and first responders do not need to be screened. Additionally, the screening regulations do not apply to certain settings where existing screening is already in place (e.g., health care).

How to Screen

Organizations must ask the questions provided on the screening tool. Organizations may ask further questions to meet any additional needs of the workplace. An individual passes the screening when they answer “no” to all the questions (indicating that they are less likely to have COVID-19). If an individual answers “yes” to any question, they must not be allowed into the workplace.

Covid-19 Screening Tool

How Long to Keep Records

There are currently no requirements for how long organizations must keep screening records. However, it may be beneficial to keep records for 30 days for contact tracing purposes.

The Covid-19 screening tool for workplaces is for information purposes only and only provides recommendations for businesses for screening. The Ministry of Health also provided COVID-19 Guidance: Essential Workplaces to help employers minimize transmission in non-health care workplaces.

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FAQs

What is financial advising?

Financial advising involves providing guidance and advice to individuals, families, or businesses to help them make informed decisions about their financial matters. This can include various aspects such as investment planning, retirement planning, tax planning, estate planning, and more. Financial advisors analyze their clients' financial situations, goals, and risk tolerance to create customized strategies that align with their objectives.

Why is financial planning important?

Financial planning is crucial for several reasons:

Goal Achievement: It helps individuals set and achieve financial goals, whether they are short-term, such as buying a home, or long-term, like funding a comfortable retirement.

Risk Management: Financial planning addresses risks by considering insurance, emergency funds, and other protective measures.

Budgeting and Saving: It promotes responsible money management through budgeting and saving, fostering financial stability.

Wealth Building: Effective financial planning can lead to wealth accumulation and the creation of a secure financial future.

Can financial advisors help with debt?

Yes, financial advisors can help with debt management. They can assess your overall financial situation, create a budget, and develop strategies to pay down debt efficiently. They may also negotiate with creditors on your behalf, provide debt consolidation recommendations, and offer guidance on prioritizing and managing debt repayment.

What exactly does a financial advisor do?

The specific responsibilities of a financial advisor can vary, but generally, they:

  1. Conduct a thorough analysis of a client's financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities.
  2. Develop personalized financial plans based on the client's goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.
  3. Provide investment advice and portfolio management services.
  4. Offer guidance on retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, and insurance.
  5. Monitor and adjust financial plans as needed based on changes in the client's life or market conditions.
  6. Educate clients on financial matters and empower them to make informed decisions.
What is the average fee for a financial advisor?

The fees charged by financial advisors can vary widely based on factors such as the advisor's experience, the services provided, and the region.

Common fee structures include:

Hourly Fees: Advisors charge an hourly rate for their services.
Flat or Fixed Fees: A set fee is charged for specific services or a comprehensive financial plan.
Asset-based Fees: Fees are a percentage of the assets under management (AUM).
Commission-based Fees: Advisors earn commissions on financial products they sell.
Combination of Fees: Advisors may use a combination of the above fee structures.
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It's important to discuss and clarify fee arrangements with a potential financial advisor before engaging in their services.