City announces COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement Program
November 15, 2021
The City of Fort St. John has joined a growing number of neighbouring municipalities such as Prince George, Kamloops, Kelowna, Vancouver and the Capital Regional District, in its requirement for all staff, contractors and volunteers to be fully vaccinated as of January 14, 2022.
As we have throughout this unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Fort St. John is committed to ensuring the health and safety of our employees, residents and visitors. Therefore, following the recommendations of the Provincial Health Officer and in consultation with Northern Health, the City has decided to implement a staff workplace COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement Program as the best way to protect workers and the public we serve against COVID-19 transmission.
“Throughout the pandemic, the health and safety of our employees and residents has been paramount. This administrative requirement ensures we continue to do the best we can to keep our staff and residents safe,” stated Chief Administrative Officer Milo MacDonald. “This is not a step the City took lightly; however, COVID-19 is a recognized workplace hazard, and vaccinations provide an efficient avenue to mitigate the risk of transmission in the workplace.”
“Council supports this decision of administration that provides another layer of protection for our staff and residents. It also answers the many queries we get from our residents about knowing if those who are providing services are vaccinated.” said Mayor Lori Ackerman.
The COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement Program complements other workplace health and safety measures, including the City’s Communicable Disease Prevention Plan, to reduce the spread and impact of COVID-19.
Accommodations will be made for those employees who can’t be fully vaccinated for reasons protected by the BC Human Rights Code.
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