Our values, vision, and mission together with your well-being and the well-being of people who use our services continue to be our top priority during the current pandemic.
This week, look for the following updates:
COVID-19 Weekly Preparedness Checklist
- The COVID-19 Weekly Preparedness Checklist has been updated for the week of September 16th – September 23rd
- The Hand Sanitizer Recall List (on the U:\\ drive) was updated (Sept 22nd, 2021), please confirm the removal of recalled sanitizers from all locations
Rapid Antigen Screening Instructions
- The rapid antigen screening instructions have been updated to reflect changes around the mandatory requirement for employees to undergo rapid tests if they have not disclosed their proof of vaccination.
Rapid Antigen Screening Job Aid
- This resource is to be printed off and made available at all RANT screening locations.
- An additional question has been included for all office and direct support locations.
COVID-19 Symptom Self-Check Poster
- A disclaimer has been included on the poster that addresses the requirement for contractors to provide proof of immunization against COVID-19 or complete a rapid antigen test before being able to enter the location.
- Questions specific to Rapid Antigen Testing have been addressed including, Bill S-201 and how it relates to testing and the use of Ethylene Oxide in the sterilization of the swabs used for rapid testing.
COVID-19 Interim Vaccine Policy
- The policy has been updated to reflect the required changes as per MCCSS in Ontario.
RAPID ANTIGEN SCREEENING FOR COVID-19
There was an automatic enrollment for all direct support professionals, program managers, and team leads on September 17th regardless of vaccination status to the RANT screening education. Office locations will determine who are the most appropriate employees to complete the training in order to assist with the completion of rapid antigen screening and then self enroll.
There will be a new portal for entering the results of Rapid Tests that are being completed by employees, the link can be found here. It is also available under “Quick Links” on CHConnect.
For ease of reference, the links to the Instructions and FAQs can be found below.
There have been questions about the use of Ethylene Oxide in the sterilization of the swabs that will be used for rapid testing. This is a common sterilization process for medical equipment and it is also used in the food industry to sterilize spices and herbs. Reuters did an investigative piece on the safety of this sterilization technique and it can be found here.
COVID-19 VACCINE UPDATE
With the announcement of mandatory vaccine policies within the developmental services sector in Ontario, Christian Horizons has taken steps to make it easier to report vaccination status. Managers or a delegate are now able to enter proof of employees vaccination status with their permission. It is important for anyone responsible for inputting this information to remember to delete or return any copies of the proof after it has been uploaded. The link for self reporting is still available and we encourage all employees to use this option when possible.
Electronic Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination
If you have previously chosen to receive a COVID-19 vaccine but have misplaced your electronic and physical proof of vaccination you can receive a new electronic proof through the Ontario Health site here. You will require your health card number.
COVID-19 VACCINE WEBINARS
There is no webinar this week. To view previously recorded webinars please click here.
If you are looking for additional webinars with a variety of experts from across Canada consider the resources available at This is Our Shot. “This Is Our Shot is a movement aimed to rally Canadians and encourage each other to replace vaccine hesitancy with confidence so that we can end the pandemic – together.” In addition to excellent resources, if you have already received both of your COVID-19 vaccines you can enter to win a variety of prizes. Grand prizes include trips to different locations within Canada.