COVID-19 Essential Workers Protocol
Objective:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada imposed travel restrictions, but there was no universal agreement on identifying "essential" workers, and provinces had their own admission rules regarding who could enter the province, and under what rules. IMC's client in the industrial gas production sector had required “turnarounds” requiring specialized personnel from the United States. The product was crucial for the oil and gas and transportation sectors. IMC was asked to “fix the problem” and find a way to bring these personnel across the border.
Approach:
During the onset period of the pandemic, Alberta Public Health officials focused on safeguarding the well-being of citizens, which presented the challenge of remote work and quarantine procedures and made officials difficult to reach. Given the circumstances, IMC found the relevant decision makers within the Alberta public health system to work through the problem. However, there was no existing framework and it had to be developed from scratch.
Once the client’s workers were classified as "essential," plans were made for their safe entry into Alberta from the United States and their return home. Accommodations and transportation were arranged with minimal contact with locals, and food delivery plans were made. IMC coordinated with a hotel to develop detailed safety protocols including masking, cleaning, and illness management. The plan was fully packaged with all details and approved by Alberta Public Health officials. IMC assisted with the ongoing execution including coordinating various steps such as conducting COVID testing and provide accurate information to Alberta Public Health regarding their presence, health status, and travel details.
During the pandemic's early stages, with no established protocols, public safety was prioritized while affecting the ability for crucial Canadian businesses to continue to function. IMC's proactive approach involved communication with government officials, raising awareness about safety compliance and the economic consequences of operational disruptions.
Once the client’s workers were classified as "essential," plans were made for their safe entry into Alberta from the United States and their return home. Accommodations and transportation were arranged with minimal contact with locals, and food delivery plans were made. IMC coordinated with a hotel to develop detailed safety protocols including masking, cleaning, and illness management. The plan was fully packaged with all details and approved by Alberta Public Health officials. IMC assisted with the ongoing execution including coordinating various steps such as conducting COVID testing and provide accurate information to Alberta Public Health regarding their presence, health status, and travel details.
During the pandemic's early stages, with no established protocols, public safety was prioritized while affecting the ability for crucial Canadian businesses to continue to function. IMC's proactive approach involved communication with government officials, raising awareness about safety compliance and the economic consequences of operational disruptions.
Results:
IMC was able to safely transport its client’s workers from the US to Alberta and back. Additionally, IMC was also successful in identifying and facilitating the entry of essential workers into Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia. Consequently, IMC successfully enabled the client to continue operating throughout the pandemic while adhering to public health regulations. Overall, IMC facilitated the movement of approximately 80 employees across the border.