COVID-19 FAQs
We are committed to ensuring we do our best to provide a healthy and safe environment for our employees and clients. Here are some answers to some frequently asked questions. The latest updates on COVID-19 are available here.
Questions & Answers
If the airport closes down for some time, would employees be paid EI benefits for the time we are home?
Yes, depending on eligibility, and soon unemployment benefits will be available to workers regardless of eligibility.
Today the Emergency Support Benefit was announced for workers who are not eligible for conventional EI (Employment Insurance). The government hasn’t finalized details, but have announced that workers can start to apply for this benefit in April.
Please visit https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei/ei-regular-benefit/eligibility.html for more details about EI.
Are we allowed to take a leave of absence since schools and daycares are closed?
Yes, if you cannot work because you have to stay home to care for children, you may request an unpaid leave of absence.
You may be interested to learn that the government announced the Emergency Care Benefit that will be made available to workers who must stay home or pay for childcare. It is expected to be available in April.
For details about the Emergency Care Benefit announcement please visit: https://pm.gc.ca/en/news/news-releases/2020/03/18/prime-minister-announces-more-support-workers-and-businesses-through
4.If we decided to extend more than 2 weeks of self isolation is LOA allowed?
Employees who are not sick and wish to remain away from work for personal reasons related to COVID 19 may do so by requesting an unpaid leave of absence or paid time off options that may be available to them (ex: vacation).
I feel sick, but I don’t think I have COVID 19. Can I still come in for my shift?
If you feel sick, even if you think it’s just a cold, please book off, consult the self-assessment questionnaire and reach out to your doctor or provincial health care support for next steps.
Ontario and Alberta have instructions on their websites. Please do not return to work until you have followed these steps.
• In Ontario, Telehealth is available at 1-866-797-000 or visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-medical-advice-telehealth-ontario
• In Alberta , dial 811 or visit https://myhealth.alberta.ca/journey/covid-19/Pages/COVID-Self-Assessment.aspx
What safety measures that Toronto Pearson is currently taking to protect passengers and employees?
Please visit the airport’s website for the most up to date information about safety measures and COVID 19 updates: https://www.torontopearson.com/en/notices/coronavirus.
In the airport, do we have a clinic test if you’re positive for the virus? If so, what can we do if we are on shift and feel the symptoms?
No, there is no testing at Airport clinics. If you are on shift and feeling symptoms, please notify your supervisor as you would normally, go home, consult the self-assessment questionnaire and reach out to your doctor or provincial health care support for next steps.
Ontario and Alberta have instructions on their websites. Please do not return to work until you have followed these steps.
• In Ontario, Telehealth is available at 1-866-797-000 or visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-medical-advice-telehealth-ontario
• In Alberta , dial 811 or visit https://myhealth.alberta.ca/journey/covid-19/Pages/COVID-Self-Assessment.aspx
What is the update on flights getting cancelled? Which flights are they?
Our management teams are updated on flight cancellations at daily client Operations Briefings and as this information is available, you will be updated.
In addition, information on Airline reductions, temporary closures and flight cancellations are available on the GTAA Toronto Pearson website.
https://www.toronto-pearson-airport.com/
Why are OSRs not screened before each shift: check temperature check and observed for cost? Clearly if a CBSA Officer was infected OSRs might be at risk.
COVID-19 Screening practices are established and implemented in accordance with Federal Government directives. Medical screening practices are invasive to your privacy and, so, carefully considered before being mandated. At this time Canadian health authorities have not deemed medical screening necessary.
Terminal 3 is higher risk due to not enough space. Will there be a way for passengers to be expedited out of the PIL?
The GTAA has established protocols for holding flights to prevent the overload of passengers into the PIL which provides and effective means for proper social distancing. For more information about Pearson Airports COVID 19 response please visit https://www.torontopearson.com/en/notices/coronavirus.
Why are the OSRs left the responsibility to ask travelers certain quarantine questions when we do not have masks?
Canada’s chief medical officer has advised against the use of face masks for healthy people. Face masks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 coronavirus to help prevent the spread of disease to others. The World Heath Organization said: “Use a mask only if you have respiratory symptoms (coughing or sneezing), have suspected COVID-19 infection with mild symptoms, or are caring for someone with suspected COVID-19 infection.
https://www.thepostmillennial.com/coronavirus-chief-medical-officer-advises-against-use-of-face-masks/
For more information, or answers to a question not listed above, please contact your manager or supervisor.