The Government of Ontario released a new reopening plan for Ontario that aims on being long-term. This new plan outlines government strategies towards the goal of lifting COVID-19 restrictions by March 2022.
This new plan includes lifting capacity restrictions for businesses requiring proof of vaccination; this was set to take place on October 25th. The following businesses are able to reopen as of October 25th, without the requirement to physically distance:
- Indoor dining
- Indoor sports and recreational facilities
- Food and drinking establishments (where there is no dancing)
- Casinos and bingo halls
- Indoor meeting and event spaces
- Outdoor settings (some restrictions apply)
With Ontario’s new plan, the option is given for other establishments to also open without physical distancing restrictions, as long as they participate in a vaccine certificate program where these businesses would agree to check for proof of vaccination. Some of the businesses being provided this option include:
- Personal care services
- Indoor spaces of amusement parks
- Boat tours
- Spaces holding weddings, funerals or religious services
Businesses who do not participate in a vaccine certificate program will have to stay in compliance with the capacity restrictions set within Step 3 of Ontario’s original reopening plan.
It is important to note that proof of vaccination requirements will not be required to access the following:
- Medical care
- Grocery stores
- Other applicable essential services
As current public health measures continue to be monitored in alignment with the goal to lift restrictions by March 2022, workplaces should ensure that they know which restrictions apply to their sector. Businesses should also ensure that they are informed on the vaccine certificate program.
- What is the ‘Working for Workers Act’? - December 16, 2021
- COVID-19 testing enhancements for the upcoming winter - November 23, 2021
- New Ontario reopening guidelines - October 26, 2021
