While proof of vaccination requirements have been lifted for all settings in Ontario as of March 1, 2022, employers may continue to implement a vaccination policy for employees. Vaccination policies for workers are separate from proof of vaccination requirements for patrons.
Halton’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Hamidah Meghani, has recommended that all local employers address the need for a workplace vaccination policy to help reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
When the employer determines that it is reasonable and necessary, workplace policies can require workers to provide proof of vaccination to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Other workplaces may encourage but not require vaccination. An employer may set different rules or requirements for unvaccinated workers (for example, use of additional personal protective equipment, worker relocation and modified work or reassignments, etc.).
An employer’s decision to implement a workplace vaccination policy, and the details of that policy, may be informed by a number of factors such as the type of workplace and the risks it presents for transmitting COVID-19, the work of the workers and consideration of the duty to accommodate (if applicable).
A vaccination policy in the workplace should be in writing and adhere to the Occupational Health and Safety Act (external link), the Ontario Human Rights Code (external link) and privacy laws (external link).
All residents who have been vaccinated in Ontario are able to access proof of their vaccination through the provincial vaccination website (external link).
For more information on workplace vaccination policies, visit Public Health COVID-19 Guidance for Businesses.