In light of the increase in cases of COVID-19, the Ontario government is moving Toronto and Peel Region into the Lockdown stage of the Covid-19 Framework starting Monday November 23 at 12:01 am. The Lockdown stage will last a minimum of 28 days. The Province has stated that it will impose fines of $750 for violating public-health rules and up to $10,000 for illegally hosting a private gathering.
Specific measures and restrictions pertaining to the Lockdown stage can be found in our In a Flash article Ontario Updates COVID-19 Response Framework with Revised Measures and Restrictions.
The following are examples of some measures and restrictions, under the Lockdown stage:
- No indoor gatherings with anyone outside a person’s household.
- Individuals who live alone can have close contact with one other household.
- Outdoor gatherings are limited to 10 people.
- Restaurants are limited to take-out, drive-through and delivery only.
- Religious services, funerals and weddings are limited to 10 people indoors or 10 people outdoors.
- Gyms are closed.
- Museums and sports facilities are closed
- Cinemas are closed.
- Non-essential retail and malls are limited to curbside pickup or delivery only.
- Personal care services, casinos and bingo halls are closed.
- Post-secondary institutions move to virtual instruction, with some exceptions, such as clinical training.
- Pharmacies, doctor and dentist offices, grocery stores, essential services remain open.
- Schools and child care facilities will remain open.
The Ontario government has announced $600 million in relief for eligible businesses required to close or significantly reduce their services as a result of the new measures.
Every employer should determine which measures will apply to their workplace based on the province’s updated classifications and restrictions. Employers in Toronto and Peel Regions should ensure they remain in compliance with the new restrictions.
We recommend that you review our Covid-19 Framework article for an in depth review of specific measures and restrictions related to the Lockdown stage.
If you have any questions about this matter, other COVID-19 related issues, or would like any other workplace law assistance, please contact a Mathews Dinsdale lawyer, or refer to the Firm’s COVID-19 website resources.
