Return to Step Two (and Remote Work)

Effective January 5, 2022 and until at least January 26, 2022 (and possibly longer), Ontario will be returning to a modified version of Step Two of the Roadmap to Reopen. In addition to reimposing restrictions for individuals and on gatherings and events, there are restrictions for employers, including the following:

1. Businesses and organizations must make sure that all work is conducted remotely, unless the nature of the work requires workers to be on-site at the workplace.
2. Retail businesses must operate under 50% capacity, amongst other restrictions.
3. Casino, bingo halls, and gaming establishments closed.
4. Indoor areas and/or services are closed (with some exceptions) for:
   • Restaurants, bars, and other food or drink establishments;
   • Meeting and event spaces;
   • Facilities used for sports and recreational fitness activities;
   • Recreational amenities; and
   • Concert venues, theatres, cinemas, museums, galleries, zoos, science centres, landmarks, historic sites, botanical gardens and similar attractions, amusement parks, waterparks, tour and guide services including boat tours, fairs, rural exhibitions and festivals.

Employers should ensure that they direct all employees to work remotely, except those that have work that requires them to be on-site. Employers should review their policies and safety plans to ensure that they comply with the new restrictions. Additionally, with schools in remote learning until January 17, employers should also be mindful of potential accommodations for employees with family care obligations.

If you have any questions about these new amendments, you can contact us at:

Geoffrey Howard:          ghoward@howardlaw.ca

604 424-9686

Sebastian Chern:            schern@howardlaw.ca

604 424-9688