Yesterday, Premier Horgan announced BC's Restart Plan - a four phase approach to lifting restrictions.
Horgan was clear in his speech that
"this is not a return to normal...we're going to the new normal."
The four phase plan also includes guidelines pertaining to:
• Personal self care (e.g. no handshaking, diligent hand washing and good hygiene)
• Managing social interactions (e.g. if you gather only do so in small groups)
• Implementing safe practices in organizations and public institutions (e.g. Ensuring social settings (kitchens, staff rooms) maintain best practice in terms of social distance)
The government will be working with public health officials, businesses and labour organizations to lift restrictions gradually, allowing for more social and economic activity, while closely monitoring health information to minimize the risk to the public. These phases will be reevaluated in intervals of 2 - 4 weeks.
Sectors that were ordered closed will be asked to work with WorkSafeBC to develop plans to reopen and WorkSafeBC is developing industry-specific guidance to help employers bring workers and customers back safely.
The Premier acknowledged the collective efforts and sacrifices British Columbians have made to flatten the curve, and reminded the community, "together we can build back BC better than ever."
