Status of Truck Drivers Over the Age of 70
Some health agencies across Canada have started to recommend that individuals over the age of 70 should follow self-isolation protocols and avoid going out if possible, in order to potentially reduce risks of contracting the COVID-19 virus. With these new recommendations, questions have been raised by some members regarding the ability of individuals over the age of 70 to drive truck – specifically cross-border.
CTA has again confirmed with both the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials, that trade moving at the northern border continues to be an essential service, and that there are no age restrictions that have been put in place for drivers crossing the border in either direction.
CTA is reminding members that truck drivers remain an essential service and are not subject to 14-day isolation protocols after returning from the U.S. All truck drivers are being asked to continually self-monitor their health status and should not be travelling should they become symptomatic.
Our Trucking Industry: Keeping Canadians Fed During COVID-19
A message of support to the industry From the Canadian Chamber of Commerce: http://chamber.ca/media/blog/200331-trucking-industry-covid-19/
New Brunswick Department of Public Safety COVID-19 Updates
OPSA COVID-19 OPSA Brief April 1 FINAL_public
Manitoba Trucking Association Updates
1 – RPM has developed a resource page for the trucking industry, as well as this tip sheet for drivers to consider when coming home for time off.
2 – Offers are coming in daily from businesses, small and large, who want to support drivers in our industry. Consider bookmarking this page and sharing the information with your drivers. This page is updated daily as we receive new offers.
3 – Representatives from Bunzl Canada have reached out to us to advise that they are taking orders for cleaning products. Please note that there is a 1-2 month wait for product delivery. Interested members can contact Mike Labossiere at Bunzl Cleaning & Hygiene (204-985-1330 or cell 204-230-2588)
4 – TDS Law, with Advocates for Employers of Canada, an alliance of management-side labour and employment law practitioners from across Canada, are hosting an online seminar on challenges faced by employers during the COVID-19 pandemic on Tuesday, April 7, 1:00 pm Central. As COVID-19 continues to spread, employers are faced with an increasing number of challenges which range from maintaining workplace health and safety to ensuring ongoing business viability. Join them for an informative online session with AEC lawyers from each jurisdiction across the country. In this session they will review:
- Government and employment standards initiatives in each Canadian jurisdiction
- Tips and best practices for maintaining health and safety – social distancing initiatives, temperature checks, schedule changes, etc.
- Use of salary reductions, leaves, temporary layoffs, and wage subsidies to deal with closures and revenue challenges
- Available alternatives – Work Share Program, Supplemental Employment Benefit Program, etc.
Media
Another Globe & Mail article highlighting plight of truck drivers in getting access to washrooms, rest stops: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/politics/article-truck-drivers-are-being-denied-basic-necessities-as-they-deliver/