COVID-19 Updates Business Health & Safety
OGWA provides Ontario members with guidance and resources during COVID-19 pandemic

The Ontario Ground Water Association has provided guidance with suggested best practices and resources to assist ground water professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Water well drillers are deemed “essential workers” in Ontario.

“The following resources will aid you in meeting thechallengeas we move onward,” the OGWA wrote in a message to its members in which the association outlined tips for service personnel:

• Follow health and safety protocols adding the practice of strict “social distancing.”
• Provide soap and disinfection gels as well as wipes in your service vehicles.
• Tailgate meetings should include protocols regarding meetings with clients.
• Service schedulers should ask clients about recent travel details, especially international.
• Ask clients to remain at a distance – a minimum of two metres or six feet. Be vigilant.
• Practice frequent hand sanitization, everywhere between homes, shops and clients.
• Wash and sanitize hands often – on arrival, before entry, post entry and on departure.
• At the first sign of a change in your health status – self isolate for 14 days.”

The Ontario association has provided a template for an Essential Worker Sample Letter for its members’ use and customization.

“Although not currently required, these could become a necessity for travel,” the OGWA said.

Although guidance and restrictions differ from province to province, and all ground water professionals are are advised to consult their home province for information applicable to their business, this template may provide a basis for creating a customized document for use by contractors and drillers in other provinces.