Government outlines plan to restart B.C. safely
British Columbians will move forward with safely restarting their province beginning in mid-May. Under B.C.’s Restart Plan, government will work closely with public health officials, businesses, and labour organizations to lift restrictions in phases, gradually allowing for more social and economic activity, while closely monitoring health information to minimize the risk to the public.
Any business restarting operations must ensure it is in compliance with the provincial health officer’s orders and in accordance with occupational health and safety guidance provided by WorkSafeBC.
B.C. is currently in Phase 1 of the restart plan. Phase 2, which will begin in mid-May, includes:
- Small social gatherings;
- A resumption of elective surgeries and regulated health services like physiotherapy, dentistry, chiropractors, and in-person counselling;
- Provincial parks open for day use;
- Opening more non-essential businesses in keeping with safe operations plans; and
- Recalling the provincial legislature for regular sittings.
- The target date for the start of Phase 3, which will include opening up of additional businesses and services, is between June and September 2020, if transmission rates remain low or in decline.
Phase 4 will only be achieved when the threat of COVID-19 has been significantly diminished through widespread vaccination, broad successful treatments, evidence of community immunity, or the equivalent.
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