Lu’ma Native Housing Society – COVID-19 Mitigation Update #2

Here is what we can report today :

Essential Work Premium has been implemented for all Heatherlands employees. All Heatherlands employees shall be provided a $4.83 per hour top up for all hours worked. This premium is not applicable to vacation leave, sick leave and statutory holidays. This top-up shall remain in place for 8 weeks at minimum, and we have agreed to meet with the employer before May 1^st to discuss extending the premium for an additional 8 weeks if required.

We are in discussion with the employer regarding a work premium for all Maintenance and public-facing employees at Nanaimo as well, and should have an update via bulletin shortly.

Flatten The Curve : MoveUP has created an excellent assistance and resource guide related to COVID19, and it can be found : https://moveuptogether.ca/resources/flattenthecurve/          

If you are concerned that you have been exposed to COVID-19, or if you have come into contact with anyone returning from one of the following countries in the last 14 days (China, Iran, Italy, Spain, South Korea), you must self isolate for 14 days from the point of contact or exposure prior to returning to work. We have confirmed with your employer that self isolation period will be paid as administrative leave, and will not be deducted from your existing entitlements such as sick leave and vacation leave.

If you are at a higher risk of infection due to diagnosed medical issues, you must self identify as such to HR. No medical documentation or disclosure of diagnosis will be required, and we will work together with the employer to implement accommodations that reduce your risk of exposure.

If you are feeling unwell :   To protect those most vulnerable, please self monitor your health and apply a low threshold when feeling unwell. Call in sick and stay home until you are feeling better. Do

Anyone concerned that they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of the novel coronavirus, should contact their primary care provider, local public health office, or call 8-1-1.

Symptoms of COVID-19 are like other respiratory illnesses. Commonly, these are fever/chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose. Shortness of breath and chest pain can be signs of severe illness.

Contact a job steward or your union representative if you run into any contradiction to these practices.

We will continue to monitor the situation daily. Please feel free to contact a job steward or e-mail nbeausoleil@moveuptogether.ca if you have any questions or concerns regarding COVID-19’s impact on your health and safety in the workplace.

In solidarity,