info@thedcentex.org +1 (647) 853-1542

Covid-19 Health and Safety

VACCINATION POLICY

Background

COVID-19 is an acute respiratory illness caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It may be characterized by fever, cough, shortness of breath, and several other symptoms. Asymptomatic infection is also possible. The risk of severe disease increases with age but is not limited to the elderly and is elevated in those with underlying medical conditions. If not prevented through comprehensive set of measures, it will negatively impact the health of staff and clients.

Purpose

In order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, D’CENTEX has adopted and implemented a vaccination policy that is effective September 7, 2021. Its utmost priority is to protect the health and safety of everyone involved in the organization. All policies and guidelines are developed in accordance with recommendations as outlined by local, provincial and federal public health agencies.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, staff and volunteers in D’CENTEX. All employees must continue to practice guidelines and recommendations as indicated by internal policies as well as public health guidelines.

Procedure

To facilitate this policy all employees, staff, and volunteers will be required to provide one of the following:

  1. Proof of COVID-19 vaccine administration as per the following requirements:
    • If the individual has only received the first dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccination series approved by the World Health Organization proof that the first dose was administered and, as soon as reasonably possible, proof of administration of the second dose; or
    • Proof of all required doses of a COVID-19 vaccine approved by the World Health Organization
  2. Written proof of a medical reason, provided by either a physician or nurse practitioner that sets out:
    • that the person cannot be vaccinated against COVID-19; and
    • the effective time period for the medical reason (i.e., permanent or time- limited).
  3. Proof that the individual has completed an educational program approved by D’CENTEX.
  4. Employees/staff/volunteers who elect not to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination per 1 above, and rely on 2 or 3, are required to perform rapid antigen testing, at a frequency determined by D’CENTEX in alignment with provincial guidance, and required to provide verification of negative test results by electronic or hard copy.

Educational Program

The educational program has been approved by an approved vendor and/or provided by DCENTEX and addresses all of the following learning components:

  • how COVID-19 vaccines work;
  • vaccine safety related to the development of the COVID-19 vaccines;
  • benefits of vaccination against COVID-19;
  • risks of not being vaccinated against COVID-19; and
  • possible side effects of COVID-19 vaccination.