Province ensuring Job protected leave for workers getting vaccinated

VICTORIA, B.C. – The provincial government has made changes to the Employment Standards Act, ensuring part and full-time workers can take the needed time to get vaccinated without fear of losing their jobs.

“We need to get British Columbians vaccinated if we want to put this pandemic behind us,” said Harry Bains, Minister of Labour. “This safeguard ensures no one will lose their job if they need time away from work to get vaccinated for COVID-19.”

The government is also looking at options to provide workers with paid leave to get their COVID-19 vaccine. The province has initiated discussions with members of British Columbia’s business community, labour organizations, and workers hit hard by the impacts of the pandemic.

Changes were made to expand job-protected leave for COVID-19 related reasons. A worker can care for family members dealing with COVID-19, not only a child or dependent adult as previously defined.

Workers with underlying health conditions putting them at higher risk for COVID-19 can also take leave.

“I encourage all workers to get your vaccine as soon as it’s your turn,” Bains said. “And I know most businesses understand the importance of having their employees vaccinated and providing a safe workspace for workers and customers.”

More information about the changes to British Columbia’s employment standards can be found on the B.C. government website.