Framework on mandatory COVID-19 testing

Context

This document sets out the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's administrative approach to Human Resources matters related to the implementation of the Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (the Policy on Vaccination) and the Framework for Implementation of the Policy on COVID-19 Vaccination for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (vaccination framework).

To support mandatory vaccination, mandatory testing will be offered as an accommodation measure for employees unable to be vaccinated or who are partially vaccinated and must report to work on-site as per the vaccination framework.

Refusal to undergo testing, disclose testing status and results to the employer will be considered a refusal to comply with the Policy on Vaccination.

Timeline for implementation

December 6, 2021 – Full implementation date of the Policy on Vaccination

Testing begins, at least 3 times per week, for those unable to be vaccinated and who must report to work on-site as per the vaccination framework.
Testing also begins, at least 3 times per week, for employees who must report to work on-site, who have their first dose as of the attestation deadline and will get their required second dose within a period of up to 10 weeks. Testing will be mandatory, as a temporary measure, until 2 weeks after their second required dose, per the vaccination framework.

Stakeholder roles and responsibilities

In addition to responsibilities under the Policy on Vaccination:

The CFIA, as the employer

Consult with the Health Canada Testing Secretariat on the Health Canada testing protocol requirements and supply management of tests (procurement, inventory, and distribution).
Establish testing schedule (for example: 3 times a week, Monday-Wednesday-Friday or at regular intervals if working a variable schedule) for employees unable to be vaccinated that must report to work, on-site aligned with Health Canada's testing protocol and based on operational requirements.
Ensure adequate distribution of self-administered tests to their employees if provided, manage inventory and test results.
Determine a site-specific or departmental process to report testing results of employees when required.

Managers

Communicate with employees regarding the mandatory testing program requirements, and procedures, including the established testing schedule, and testing reporting process.
Monitor compliance of employees with all aspects of the mandatory testing program.

Employees

Employees unable to be vaccinated, and who must report to work on-site even occasionally will be required to be tested including reporting their testing results at least 3 times per week (for example: positive or negative) per established departmental/agency protocols and Health Canada's Testing Protocol.
Notify the manager if the instructions pertaining to testing administration or if employee rights are unclear.
In addition to testing, follow local public health guidelines and any other required COVID-19 preventative measures in the workplace (for example: masks, physical distancing, as required).

Public Services and Procurement Canada

Provides support for the implementation of the testing framework such as procurement of tests via the Health Canada Testing Secretariat, facilities, and logistics.

References

Legislation

Related policy instruments

Date modified:: 2021-11-08

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