'These workers must now complete the full 14-day self-isolation period, regardless of test result'
Newfoundland and Labrador is warning all workers returning from Manitoba to self-isolate after at least two workplace outbreaks there.
The Health and Community Services department referred to a COVID-19 outbreak at the Seymour Pacific Developments worksite in Brandon, Man., along with one reported at the Manitoba Hydro Keeyask Generating Station project north of Winnipeg.
Rotational workers with the two worksites who have returned to Newfoundland and Labrador in the last 14 days “must self-isolate away from household members and call 811 to arrange for COVID-19 testing,” says the government. “These workers must now complete the full 14-day self-isolation period, regardless of test result.”
As of Sept. 9, rotational workers from Newfoundland and Labrador who work outside Atlantic Canada in another Canadian province or territory have been able to call 811 as early as day five of their 14-day self-isolation period to arrange for COVID-19 testing. Once an asymptomatic individual completed seven days of self-isolation and received a negative test result, they are no longer required to self-isolate.
Prince Edward Island also previously allowed residents who travel outside the Atlantic Bubble to “work isolate” once they return home.
As of Nov. 10, Newfoundland and Labrador has seven active cases and 286 people have recovered from the virus while 55,236 people have been tested. Manitoba has 5,390 active cases and 3,374 individuals who have recovered from COVID-19; the number of deaths due to COVID-19 is 114.
In May, the United Food and Commercial Workers Canada (UFCW) called for the continued closure of beef processing company Cargill’s High River, Alberta facility until appropriate steps are taken to better protect workers amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
