Covid-19

 

For more information about COVID-19 click on the following :

1- Covid-19 Safety Plan

2- Covid-19 Guidelines

3- Covid-19 Health and Wellness Policy

4- Covid-19 Exposure Control Plan

 

Covid-19 Safety Plan
 

Step 1: Assess the risks at the workplace

WorkSafeBC (WSBC) Checklist

• Involve frontline workers, supervisors, and management
• Identify areas where people gather (i.e., break rooms and meeting rooms)
• Identify job tasks and processes where workers are in close proximity to one another ormembers of the public
• Identify tools, machinery and equipment that workers share while working
• Identify surfaces that people touch often

 

By Participation

There is active participation in health and safety from everyone at CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE

CLEVER CUB will seek regular input from all employees on how to identify and eliminate or reduce any risks associated with COVID-19.

Step 2: Implement protocols to reduce the risks (space and safety measures)

WSBC Checklist

• Review industry-specific WSBC guidance documents and determine if relevant
• Gain input and guidance from teachers and supervisors
• Review orders, guidance and notices (public health and other)
• Review health and safety association or other professional and industry associations
• Review policy and procedures by bigger childcare facilities such as CapU for best practices as determined by organizations with greater resources and a bigger team dedicated to the issue.

 

Hierarchy of Controls (HOC)

First-level Protection: elimination/substitution (HOC1)

• We have implemented measures to keep distance between visiting parents

• We have implemented procedures to reduce the amount of contact between all adults

  Third-level Protection: administrative rules and guidelines (H0C3)

• We have identified rules and guidelines for how workers should conduct themselves.
• We continue to clearly communicate updates in our rules and guidelines to workers and students through a combination of training, communication, and signage

Fourth-level Protection: PPE and using masks, etc. (H0C4)

• We have reviewed the information on selecting and using masks and instruction on how to
• use them.
• We understand the limitations of masks and other PPE.
• We understand that PPE should only be used in combination with other control measures.
• We have trained workers to use PPE properly, following the manufacturer's instructions for use and disposal.

Cleaning and Hygiene Practices (C&H)

• We have reviewed the information on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.
• Our workplace has enough hand-washing facilities on-site for all our workers and students.
• We have policies that specify when workers must wash their hands.
• We have communicated good hygiene practices to workers and students.
• We have implement cleaning protocols for all common areas and surfaces, including timing and frequency that these items must be cleaned.
• Workers who are cleaning have adequate training and supplies.
• We have removed unnecessary or unused tools and equipment to simplify the cleaning process.

  By CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE

1. We will follow the (yet to be published) PSI safety guidance once it is released by WSBC.
2. We are limiting the number of visitors inside our facilities at one time. (HOC 1) a.Parents are asked to wait for their children outside
   b.Viewings are limited to after business hours
    
3. We have identified rules and guidelines for how workers should conduct themselves (HOC 3)
   
   • Health and wellness Policy
   • Exposure Control Plan
   • COVID-19 Guidelines
    
4. Rules and guidelines have been communicated to employees and parents, and will be communicated to visitors (HOC 3)
5. Within the Exposure Control Plan, we have:
   
   •    Reviewed the information on selecting and using masks and instruction on how to use them
   •    Communicated the limitations of personal protective equipment (PPE)
   •    Communicated that PPE must be used in combination with other control measures
   •    Communicated good hygiene practices (HOC and C&H)

 

Step 3: Develop policies

WSBC Checklist

Our workplace policies ensure that workers and others showing symptoms of COVID-19 are
prohibited from the workplace.

• Anyone who has had symptoms of COVID-19 in the last 10 days. Symptoms include fever, chills, new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, sore throat and new muscle aches or headache.
• Anyone directed by Public Health to self-isolate.
• Anyone who has arrived from outside Canada or who has had contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case must self-isolate for 14 days and monitor for symptoms.

Our policy addresses workers who may start to feel ill at work. It includes the following:

• Sick workers should report to management, even with mild symptoms.
• Sick workers should be asked to wash or sanitize their hands, provided with a mask and isolated. Ask the worker to go straight home.
•  If a worker is severely ill (i.e., difficulty breathing, chest pain) call 9-1-1.
• Clean and disinfect any surfaces that the ill worker may have come in contact with.
• Visitors are prohibited or given limited access in the workplace.
• First aid attendants have been provided OFAA protocols for use during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Ensure workers have the training and strategies required to address the risk of violence that may arise as customers and members of the public adapt to restrictions or modifications to the workplace.
• Ensure an appropriate violence prevention program is in place.

By CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE

1. CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE has a COVID-19 work procedure that provides instruction to workers on:
   •  Learning about COVID-19 and our exposure control processes
   •  Monitoring our individual health.
   •  What to do if you become sick at work.
    
2. We have developed a process for disinfecting all surfaces periodically
3. Visitors (Whether parents dropping off / picking up their children, or parents viewing the daycare for future enrollment) will be limited.
4. CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE has the following strategy for addressing the risk of iolence in the workplace:
   
   •  Zero-tolerence policy meaning staff will de-escalate situation, disinfect areas that may have been compramised, and ask violent individual to not return via telecommunication

 

Step 4: Develop communication plans and training

WSBC Checklist

1. We ensure that everyone entering the workplace, including contractors and workers from other Employers (i.e. licensing officers), know how to keep themselves safe while on campus.
2. We have a training plan to ensure everyone is trained in workplace policies and procedures.
3. All workers have received the policies for staying home when sick.
4. We have posted signage at the workplace, including occupancy limits regarding good hygiene and who is restricted from entering the premises, including visitors and workers with symptoms.
5. Supervisors have been trained on monitoring workers and the workplace to ensure policies and procedures are being followed.

 

CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE
 

CLEVER CUB has develoepd an Exposure Control Plan which is communicated to all staff and parents
COVID-19 policy materials will be supplied to all visitors
 

Step 5: Monitor the workplace and update plans as necessary

WSBC Checklist

• Things may change as our business operates. We take steps to update our policies and procedures when there is a new area of concern or something isn't working. We involve workers in this process.
• We have a plan in place to monitor risks. We make changes to our policies and procedures as necessary.
• Workers know who to go to with health and safety concerns.
• When resolving safety issues, we will involve the JHSC.

 

CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE

1. We have communicated with our staff to monitor and review COVID-19 safety measures for effectiveness and compliance. This will include:
   •  Roles and responsibilities;and
   •  Articulation of who to speak with when a worker has a safety concern

 

 

 

 

Covid-19 Guidelines

Children’s Centre Covid -19 Safety Plan

Clever Cub Childcare is licensed and regulated by the BC Community Care and Assisted Living Act and Child Care Licensing Regulations (CCFL). In addition to our existing policies and procedures, the following measures will be implemented and are informed by provincial health officers, BC Centre for Disease Control (BC CDC) and WorkSafe BC. As new information and guidelines become available we will review and adjust these measures.

The Children’s Centre is committed to maintaining a healthy and safe environment for children, families and employees, and providing children with high quality early learning experiences, environments and care.

Based on the current epidemiology of COVID-19 in B.C., and the fact that children are at a much lower risk of developing COVID-19 (and are unlikely to spread it to adults), our program has elected to operate at this time. Dr. Henry maintains that child-care centers can safely care for children if they are
following the prescribed health protocols. Supporting the health and safety of children and adults remains our top priority.

The Children’s Centre will adapt as much as possible to implement public health and infection prevention and control measures. This includes staying home when ill (children and educators), physical distancing and minimal physical contact (where possible), hand hygiene, frequent cleaning and disinfection, etc.

Guiding Principles

•  All individuals with symptoms of common cold, influenza, COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases MUST NOT ENTER the children’s centre and MUST STAY HOME.
• Be aware of signs of illness in children and adults and adhere to the Covid-19 Health and Wellness policy at all times.
• Handwashing is essential at all times. All employees/educators, visitors and children must practice excellent handwashing protocols. Soap and water is preferable to hand sanitizer.
• Respect physical distancing rules, recognizing that not all physical distancing rules are appropriate or possible with young children. Educators will facilitate and teach physical distancing by designing and implementing natural and appropriate methods, such as: effective use of all program areas (indoor & outdoor) at all times to maximize distancing; changes to routines & activities (ie. Increased amount of time in playgrounds for all children through all times of the day); where appropriate, teaching children about physical distancing through role modeling, discussion and encouragement. For younger children maintaining physical distance is not possible and the focus should be on minimizing physical contact where appropriate/possible.
•  Provide consistent, caring and ethical interactions between educators and children, while limiting group sizes whenever possible and reasonable. Social and emotional needs of children are just as important as health and safety needs.
• Cleaning reduces the number of viruses and the risk of contagion. Enhanced cleaning and sanitizing of all high touch areas shall be done a minimum of twice per day; surfaces will be disinfected with approved disinfectant products and, whenever possible, items will be put through the sanitizer.

Background Information

What is COVID-19 and how is it spread? COVID-19 is a respiratory infection that is spread by droplets. These are small particles that are dispersed when people cough or sneeze. They can land on environmental surfaces and people who touch those surfaces and contaminate their eyes, nose or mouth can become infected.

COVID-19 & Children

COVID-19 virus has a very low infection rate in children. In B.C., less than 1% of children and youth tested have been COVID-19 positive. Most children are not at high risk for COVID-19 infection. Children under 1 year of age and older children with immune suppression and medical complexity are considered more vulnerable and at higher risk for illness (visit the BCCDC Priority Populations page for further details). Children who are considered more vulnerable can attend child-care. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to consult with their health care provider to determine if their child should attend chil- care if they are uncertain. Children and youth typically have much milder symptoms of COVID-19, most often presenting with low-grade fever and a dry cough. GI symptoms are also common. Many children are asymptomatic. However, there is no conclusive evidence that children who are asymptomatic pose a risk to other children or to adults. Evidence indicates transmission involving children is primarily limited to household settings, and from COVID-19 positive adults to children. Most cases in children have been linked to a symptomatic household member. Clusters and outbreaks involving children and youth are unusual and tend only to occur in areas where there are high levels of community spread.
Excerpt from https://www.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-
provincial-healthofficer/covid-19/covid-19-pho-guidance-childcare.pdf

 

KEY MESSAGES

Slow the transmission.
Maintain 2m physical distance.
Clean & disinfect high touch surfaces often.
Take care of yourself & others.
Wash your hands.
Don’t touch your face.
If you have a cold, flu, COVID-19 or respiratory illness STAY HOME Provision of Care

Access

Access to the building and the program rooms is limited AND all adults must maintain a 2 metre distance from each other. Families will not have access to the classrooms. Children will not visit other programs. Visitors will be limited to public health staff, authorized parents, support services and facilities. Facilities staff and other maintenance workers may enter the centre / program areas, as needed. Educators will answer, welcome and manage entry to program room.

Safe Entry Protocols

All individuals entering the centre must…

• Families are to wear a mask for drop off and pick up. All authorized adult visitors must wear a mask while in the Children’s Centre. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own mask to wear while in the centre. In the event that they do not have one, a disposable mask will be provided.
• Hand hygiene stations will be available for children and families at each of the designated drop off areas.Children and adults must wash or sanitize their hands upon entry. Outdoor hand sanitizer are available in the playground areas and at the entrances. All individuals entering a program room must wash or sanitize their hands.
• Everyone entering the building must have completed a daily health check.
• Families must acknowledge that they have completed the health screening questionnaire while signing their child in for the day. If a child exhibits symptoms at drop off educators are to explore further with the parent. Educators should exercise judgment. For example, children who are crying can exhibit a runny nose. If the child has known seasonal allergies, educators will take that into consideration.
• A container of clean, disinfected pens will be available at sign in stations, but families are strongly encouraged to bring their own pen.
• Educators will then assist children to thoroughly wash their hands before entering into play in the classrooms.

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

DAILY HEALTH SCREENING: All adults and children must complete a health screening each day prior to entering the program rooms or working in the centre.

All Individuals will be asked: 1. Do you / your child have symptoms of the common cold, influenza, COVID-19 or other respiratory illness of any kind (ex. cough, fever, chest infection)? 2. Have you, your child, been identified by Public Health as a close contact of a confirmed case of COVID-19? 3. Have you / your child, travelled to any countries outside of Canada, including the United States, in the last 14 days?

If YES to any of the questions above, the employee, family member, visitor or child MUST NOT ENTER. The Educator will explain to the individual or parent/guardian of a child, they will not be able to ENTER. If they have symptoms, they must STAY HOME, be assessed by a health care practitioner, and follow their direction for self- isolation, AND do NOT return until symptoms have resolved. If they have been travelling or have been in contact with someone with a confirmed case of COVID-19, they must stay home for 14 days and if during the 14 days they start having symptoms, then they must STAY HOME, be assessed by a health care practitioner, and follow their direction for self-isolation, AND do NOT return until symptoms have resolved.

Drop Off Procedures

All families, employees and visitors are reminded to give themselves plenty of time for potential line ups, Daily Health Screening and Safe Entry Protocols for either arrival and/or departures. When entering a facility, please be patient and enter into the facility in an orderly manner while maintaining a 2 metre distance from other families / adults.

Pick Up locations

Parents will pick up from the playground whenever possible.

Educator Conduct

The physical space requirements for licensed child care settings set out in the Child Care Licensing Regulation mean that child care centres have sufficient space to support physical distancing between staff without reducing the number of children in care at any one time. Educators should minimize the frequency of direct physical contact with children and encourage children to minimize physical contact with each other. Educators should also maintain physical distancing from one another. Covid-19 Policies apply to all educators and any other adults entering the building. Staff with symptoms must stay home until they receive a negative COVID-19 test and no fever is present, or until 10 days have passed and symptoms have resolved.
 
All educators must:
Inform Management if leaving the Province/Country as this could affect your ability to work Notify management immediately if not feeling well request to leave work if unwell Make every effort to maintain 2 meters distance between each other Adhere to ONE person in the kitchen at a time and other room capacity signage Stagger breaks so that no more than 2 people are in the lunch room at a time

Occupancy levels

The 4 classrooms in the Children’s Centre exceed the licensing requirement of 3.7m2. Therefore, with the use of all areas of the classrooms and the playgrounds, we can maintain physical distancing for all adults and encourage physical distancing for children. Rooms have max occupancy of the licensed capacity of the children and the required staffing levels to maintain ratios as outlined in the child care regulations.

There may be up to 2 additional adults in the room (ie. maintenance worker & manager; or manager & parent). In common areas, like the foyer, adults must maintain a 2m distance from each other.

Air Flow

Open windows and doors wherever possible to allow air flow which clears virus’s out more quickly

Cubby Areas

Children’s cubbies will be pre-arranged to allow for the maximum amount of separation – use every other cubby if space allows

Child/Educator Interactions

Physical distancing is not possible in a childcare setting but it is important that we do what we can to try to assist children to understand these rules that are so important outside of childcare. Use ideas that work for your  classroom so you can accommodate smaller groups with more space.

• Have a group outside while another is inside ● Set up regular activities outside such as; snack time, and art
• Avoid activities that require direct contact between children (e.g. holding hands) • Avoid getting down to child’s face level (ie: bend only part way when zipping up coats vs: kneeling in front of the child) • Find alternate ways to show affection such as air hugs, big waves, air kisses • Carry infants facing away from you whenever possible • Maintain 6 feet social distancing with parents • Use glove when wiping child’s nose

 

Communication

Ensure that all information from families is communicated in timely fashion to the manager • Be firm at ensuring everyone is adhering to policies, but sensitive to how things are stated as this pandemic has created heightened anxiety • When a parent calls in to say their child will be absent, be sure you find out why. If sick, be sure you document their symptoms in communication book. Be sure you inform management immediately of any suspected Covid19 cases • After using center phone disinfect with Virox wipe immediately • Staff are to avoid sharing items as much as possible (have own pens, etc). • Manager to contact Health Unit to report any potential case.

Nap Room

Space children out as much as possible• Cots/cribs are placed head to toe.When holding infants and toddlers (such as for rocking to sleep), educators can use blankets over their clothing and change the blankets between children.

Outside

Our child care programs will take place largely outdoors in our yards and surrounding areas. Educators and children are encouraged to spend as much time outdoors as possible – 4 hours would be idealEducators will sanitize, using wipes, high touch items as necessary

Food/Beverages

Bleach kitchen taps more frequently at 1000 ppm = 1 tsp bleach to 1 cup water. Food safe areas are to be no more than 200 ppm = ¼ tsp bleach to 1 cup water. Cups/dishes to be placed in sanitizer dishwasher immediately (single use) • Children are not permitted to be in kitchen areas or near food preparation

Art/Sensory

Limit children the number of children at a table or gathered on the floor (whenever possible) • Shared sensory bins will not be permitted (water trays used individually that can be sanitized are okay) • Give each child personal art supplies, wipe with bleach when done • Give individual playdoh in bag with child’s name and do not permit sharing, store in baggie with name

Play Areas/Toys

Two to three children may play together in each area (preferably each with own toys) • Toy Bins will be placed out for children to play with and then put away with date (may sit for 7 days or be bleached/run through the sanitizer prior to using) • Avoid using toys that cannot be easily washed • No soft items will be out (dress up, puppets, stuffed animals) • Avoid sharing of toys as much as possible by having children playing parallel (toys can be separated by giving half to two children beside each other) • Puzzles once used will be placed away with date (avoid use for 7 days) • Books may be left out as low risk (wipe down periodically) • Sanitize toys immediately that have been put in child’s mouth

Bathroom

Avoid children lining up • One educator at a time in the bathroom •Educator will remain in bathroom to model or assist with proper handwashing - tap off with towel etc. • Children may sing song while washing for 20 seconds • Adult must wear gloves when changing diapers when BM, not needed with urine

COUGH & SNEEZE ETIQUETTE

Cough and sneeze into arm or tissue. Wash hands

Handwashing Protocols

Educators wash hands frequently with soap and water (hand sanitizer on occasion or when outside)

• When they arrive at the child care centre and before they go home
• When visibly dirty
• Before/After touching face
• After close physical contact with a child or their personal belongings: first aid, wiping nose, sunscreen, wiping tears, etc
• After you have coughed or sneezed into tissue or hands
• After going to washroom, diapering or assisting child in washroom
• After cleaning tasks & taking out the garbage
• Before handling food or clean dishes
• Before feeding children, food prep or making bottles
• Before and after eating
• After removing gloves
• After having been outside Children Wash hands frequently with soap and water (hand sanitizer only if no sink available)
• Upon arrival
• When visibly dirty
• After touching nose or fingers in mouth
• After you have coughed or sneezed into tissue or hands
• After going to washroom
• Before and after eating
• After having been outside

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves, gowns and shields
are not recommended for employees/educators who work within child care for all situations. It is only recommended for healthcare workers. Masks are not recommended for children, as masks can be irritating and may lead to increased touching of the face and eyes.

For employees, wearing masks is not required for the majority of the day and is a personal choice. Employees may wear masks. If you choose to wear a mask, it is important to not touch your face when wearing it. A false sense of security can occur when wearing a mask and it is likely to increase the number of times a person will touch their own face. There is a potential risk of infection with incorrect use, incorrect placement, and when putting it on or taking it off.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own mask to wear while in the centre. However, in the event they do not have one, a disposable mask will be provided by an employee.

Sick Children

Children with symptoms must stay home until symptoms resolve or 10 days, whichever is longest. In the event of a negative COVID-19 test, children may return to the facility once symptoms have improved, even if it is less than 10 days. Fever, diarrhea and vomiting require the child to additionally be symptom free without fever reducing medications, for 48 hours following the last symptom.
Each classroom will have a designated, separate, supervised area available for children who develop symptoms of illness to rest until they can be picked up. Staff will ensure these areas are cleaned and disinfected after the child has left.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

Bleach solution needs to be made daily using the labeled spay bottles. Ensure proper solution of Bleach is used
follow posted instructions:
1000 ppm for all surfaces including bodily fluids = 1 tsp bleach to 1 cup water 200 ppm for food safe surfaces = ¼ tsp bleach to 1 cup water 1/3 cup bleach per gallon of water for sanitizing toys and rags etc. Clean tables and diapering areas with soap and water prior to sanitizing with bleach • Avoid over spraying for health reasons and ensure children are not nearby or ensure adequate ventilation. • Be sure that wood shelving units and cubbies are dried • Ensure kitchen counters and tables are cleaned immediately after snack • Wipe high touch areas mid-day then end of day (wiping doorknobs not spraying) • Wipe bathroom after all group CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE COVID-19 Guidelines

wash times (arrival, am snack, lunch, pm snack & end of day) •Bleach may be left to sit on sink and taps; wipe down soap, paper towel, lights, grab bars, toilet, doors, etc. • Disinfect all surfaces with 1000 ppm (counters, chairs, tables, etc) • More thorough cleaning is required if a child becomes sick ● Wear gloves when cleaning or soaking toys to avoid damage to skin ● Keep written record of cleaning schedule.

 

 

Covid-19 Health and Wellness Policy

Based on the current epidemiology of COVID-19 in B.C., and the fact that children are at a much lower risk of developing COVID-19, our program has reopened. Supporting the health and safety of children and adults remains our top priority. Please remember that the Covid-19 public health emergency is rapidly changing and our ability to remain open may change without notice. Additionally, due to the need for staff to also stay home when symptomatic, we may have temporary interruptions to service delivery due to staffing shortages.

Dr. Henry maintains that child care centres can safely care for children if they are following the prescribed health protocols. The Children's Centre will adapt as much as possible to implement public health and infection prevention and control measures. This includes staying home when ill (children and educators), physical distancing and minimal physical contact (where possible), hand hygiene, frequent cleaning and disinfection, etc. The following information on Covid-19 is taken directly from the BC Centre for Disease Control's website http://covid-19.bccdc.ca

 

Symptoms of COVID-19

The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to other respiratory illnesses including the flu and common cold. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough or worsening of chronic cough
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Loss of sense of smell or taste
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Muscle aches

While less common, symptoms can also include:

• Stuffy nose
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Dizziness, confusion
• Abdominal pain
• Skin rashes or discoloration of fingers or toes.

Children have similar symptoms to adults, but are less likely to have fever, shortness of breath or cough. COVID-19 causes mild illness in the majority of cases in children.

COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe. Sometimes people with COVID-19 have mild illness, but their symptoms may suddenly worsen in a few days. Symptoms of COVID-19 can appear up to 14 days after being exposed to the virus.

What to do if you have symptoms of COVID-19

Testing is recommended for anyone with cold, influenza or C0VID-19-like symptoms, even mild ones. For more information on testing and where to go for testing, visit the Testing paqe.

The B.C. COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool is also available for anyone that develops symptoms and can be used to help determine if you need further assessment or testing for COVID-19. Testing is especially important for groups that are more vulnerable to complications from COVID-19, or people who care for these individuals.

Some symptoms can also be signs of other conditions. If you are unsure, contact your health care provider or call 8-1-1. If you develop symptoms, you will need to self-isolate while you wait for your test results so you do not potentially spread illness to others. Those who get diagnosed with COVID-19 will need to self-isolate for at least 10 days from when their symptoms started. For more information on what to do if you have COVID-19, if you think you may have it, or believe you may require medical care, visit the If vol/ are Sick paqe.

Based on this, the Children's Centre has updated our policies for children or staff who have symptoms of a common cold, influenza, COVID-19 or other infectious respiratory diseases to remain at home. Children or staff may return to the centre once they are assessed by their family physician or nurse practitioner and it is determined that they do NOT have COVID-19 and their symptoms have resolved.

The Covid Health and Wellness policy applies to all staff and children within the Children's Centre.

On arrival, staff will review the health of the child with the parent, before the child enters the centre. If the child has any symptoms, they must return home as per the health policy.

Parents will be asked to sign a statement each morning，confirming that their child is symptom free and that their child has not been given acetaminophen or ibuprofen in the last 12 hours.

 

Symptom	May return when
Temperature of 101 F / 38 C or higher	May return to child care after a negative COVID-19 test or Dr's note is provided
Runny nose	May return to child care after a negative COVID-19 test or Dr's note is provided
Cough	May return to child care after a negative COVID-19 test or Dr's note is provided
Sore throat	May return to child care after a negative COVID-19 test or Dr's note is provided
Difficulty breathing or wheezing	May return to child care after a negative COVID-19 test or Dr's note is provided
Unexplained fatigue, aches or cold/flu-like symptoms	May return to child care after a negative COVID-19 test or Dr's note is provided
Sinus congestion	May return to child care after a negative COVID-19 test or Dr's note is provided or when symptom free
Children who have, or children with others living in the same home who have just returned from international travel	May return after self-isolating for 14 days and being symptom free
Children who have, or children with others living in the same home who have been identified by public health as at-risk of potential Covid-19 exposure	May return after they have been advised by public health that it is safe to do so

 

Additionally, our regular health and wellness policy stands:

A child must be kept out of child care if they:

• Have a communicable disease
• Have a fever of 101 F or 38 degrees C or higher (within 24 hours)
• Have diarrhea and/or vomiting (within 24 hours)
• Have a skin infection, rash or discharge from the eyes that has not been diagnosed by a physician
• Have acute unexplained pain, unusual/unexplained loss of appetite, fatigue, irritability, or headache
• Have difficulty breathing (ex: wheezing, persistent cough)
• Have a severe cold with fever, sneezing and nasal discharge

 
Daily Confirmation of Child Wellness

By signing the health check box on the daily sign in sheet, you are confirming that your child:

• Has had their temperature taken and is currently fever free
• Has not been given any fever reducing medications in the past 24 hours
• Does not have a runny nose OR has a runny nose, but has received a recent negative Covid test or Dr's note and is well enough to participate in daily activities
• Does not have a cough OR has a cough, but has received a recent negative Covid test or
• Dr's note and is well enough to participate in daily activities
• Does not have sinus congestion OR has sinus congestion, but has received a recent negative Covid test or Dr's note and is well enough to participate in daily activities
• Does not have difficulty breathing or wheezy breathing
• Does not have unexplained fatigue, aches or cold/flu-like symptoms
• Has not been in contact with anyone that may have been exposed to Covidl9 in the last 14 days to the best of my knowledge
• Has not left the country in the last 14 days

 

 

Covid-19 Exposure Control Plan

Scope

This exposure control plan (ECP) applies to CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE employees.

Statement of purpose

CLEVER CUB is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for all of our employees. A combination of preventative measures will be used to minimize worker exposure to the COVID-19 virus, including the most effective control technologies available. It is the intent that these work procedures will protect not only our employees, but also other workers and/or the public who enter our facilities. All employees must follow the procedures outlined in this plan to prevent or reduce exposure to the COVID-19 virus.

The purpose of this ECP is to protect employees from harmful exposures to the COVID-19 virus, to reduce the risk of infection in the event of an exposure, and to comply with the WorkSafeBC Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 5.54 and 6.3, Exposure Control Plan.
CLEVER CUB will strive to find ways to control or eliminate exposure to the COVID-19 virus by developing and implementing proper risk controls, establishing safe work practices, raising awareness, and providing education and training for our employees. CLEVER CUB will follow direction and controls as specified by the BCCDC, the BC Ministry of Health, and the Vancouver Coastal Health Medical Health Officer(s) while continuing to monitor and liaise with these authorities on changes that may impact the institution.

ACRONYMS

BCCDC - British Columbia Centre for Disease Control
ECP 一 Exposure Control Plan
EOC - Emergency Operations Centre
MHO - Medical Health Officer
PHAC - Public Health Agency of Canada
PPE 一 Personal protective equipment
SWP - Safe work practice
WHO - World Health Organization
CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE Exposure Control Plan

Responsibilities

NOTE: These responsibilities may change as the situation evolves.

CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE Childcare:

• Ensure that the materials (gloves, alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and washing facilities) and other resources (such as worker training materials required to implement and maintain the plan) are readily available, where and when they are required. If, due to supply chain disruption CLEVER CUB becomes unable to obtain the necessary resources, CLEVER CUB will advise the appropriate emergency agency and re-evaluate this plan and the ability to continue to conduct activities that rely on those supplies for safe operation.
• Select, implement, and document the appropriate site or scenario-specific control measures.
• Ensure all employees are provided with a copy of this plan and all employees are provided with a summary of direction and access to the full plan.
• Ensure that managers, supervisors and employees are educated and trained to an acceptable level of competency.
• Ensure that employees use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) - for example, gloves, eye protection, masks or respirators, when required.
• Conduct a periodic review of the plan’s effectiveness.
• Maintain records as necessary

Managers and Supervisors:

 

• Assess the risk(s) related to the COVID-19 virus for the positions under their Management.
• Ensure that awareness and information resources are shared with employees.
• Ensure and provide training, SWPs, PPE, and other equipment, as necessary.
• Direct work in a manner that eliminates and, if not possible, minimizes the risk to employees.
• Direct any employee reporting COVID-19 symptoms to take immediate sick leave and go home.
• Ensure employees follow SWPs, use PPE.
• Ensure that their departmental/faculty visitors, contractors and subcontractors follow SWPs, use PPE, as required.

Employees and Students:

 

• Review information resources, ask questions, and follow-up with manager or supervisor (employees) to ensure understanding and adherence.
• Take part in training and instruction.
• Review and follow related SWPs.
• Select, care, maintain and use any assigned PPE, as trained and instructed.
• Rely on information from trusted sources including Clever Cub, Vancouver Coastal Health, BCCDC, Ministry of Health, WorkSafeBC, PHAC, and WHO.
• Understand how exposure can occur, and when and how to report exposure incidents.
• Report COVID-19 symptoms to management.

Visitors:

• Comply with the direction of CLEVER CUB employees with respect to exposure control
• Take part in training and instruction, as relevant
• Review and follow related SWPs
• Report COVID-19 symptoms to employees

Contractors and Subcontractors:

 

• Comply with the direction of CLEVER CUB employees with respect to exposure control
• Take part in training and instruction, as relevant
• Review and follow related SWPs
• Select, provide, care, maintain and use any assigned PPE, as trained and instructed.
• Report COVID-19 symptoms to management.
   

Risk identification

COVID-19 virus

The COVID-19 virus is transmitted via larger liquid droplets when a person coughs or sneezes. The virus can enter through these droplets through the eyes, nose or throat if an employee is in close contact with a person who carries the COVID-19 virus. The virus is not known to be airborne (e.g. transmitted through the particles floating in the air) and it is not something that comes in through the skin. The COVID-19 virus can be spread by touch if a person has used their hands to cover their mouth or nose when they cough or sneeze.

Droplet Contact

Some diseases can be transferred by large infected droplets contacting surfaces of the eye, nose, or mouth. For example, large droplets that may be visible to the naked eye are generated when a person sneezes or coughs. These droplets typically spread only one to two metres and are too large to float in the air (i.e.airborne) and quickly fall to the ground. Influenza and SARS are two examples of diseases capable of being transmitted from droplet contact. Currently, health experts believe that the COVID-19 virus can also be transmitted in this way.

Airborne transmission

This occurs when much smaller evaporated droplets or dust particles containing the microorganism float in the air for long periods of time.Transmission occurs when others breathe the microorganism into their throat or lungs.Currently, health experts believe that the COVID-19 virus cannot be transmitted through airborne transmission

Risk Control

The Regulation requires CLEVER CUB to implement infectious disease controls in the following
order of preference:

Controls used to mitigate the risks of exposure include:

• Elimination through Physical Distancing
• Engineering Controls
• Administrative Controls
• Personal Protective Equipment

Elimination controls are those that remove the risk of contracting COVID-19 in the workplace. Currently, this is achieved by Physical Distancing. This includes eliminating face-to-face contact by modifying service delivery to rely on video conferencing, phone, email or regular mail.

Engineering controls are those that alter the work environment to create a safe space.This would include distance controls (2 meters or greater) at reception counters or working inside an enclosure or behind a partition when helping customers or students. If practicable, conduct financial transactions by electronic means rather than cash or cheque. Additional examples may include physical barriers, which limit personal human contacts.

Administrative controls are procedures that can be implemented to reduce the risk of
COVID-19 transmission, which include:

• Hand washing and cough/sneeze etiquette (cover your mouth and nose with a sleeve or tissue when coughing or sneezing).
• Allow a reasonable personal distance space to reduce human-to-human transmission.
• Increase cleaning frequencies for shared work surfaces and equipment and tools, including shared vehicles.
• Where practical, consideration may be given to alternative work schedules, classroom sizing and work locations to reduce the number of people in an area.

Personal Protective Equipment is the last resort of mitigation strategy and includes using PPE for protection against transmission such, as wearing masks, respirators, gowns or aprons, gloves, goggles and/or face-shields. The use of PPE is required in high-risk situations, such as dealing with infectious people.

Safe work practices

Hand Hygiene

Hand washing, proper coughing and sneezing etiquette, and not touching your face are the key to the prevention of transmission and therefore minimize the likelihood of infection.

Proper hand washing helps prevent the transfer of infectious material from the hands to other parts of the body - particularly the eyes, nose and mouth - or to other surfaces that are touched.

Wash your hands well and often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to hum the “Happy Birthday^^ song twice). If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub to clean your hands.

“Often" includes:

• upon arriving and when leaving work
• after coughing or sneezing
• after bathroom use
• when hands are visibly dirty
• before, during and after you prepare food
• before eating any food (including snacks)
• before using shared equipment

“Well” means:

• wet hands and apply soap
• rub hands together vigorously for at least 20 seconds ensuring the lather covers all areas - palm to palm, back of hands, between fingers, back of fingers, thumbs, fingernails (using palm) and wrists
• rinse hand thoroughly with water
• dry your hands with paper towel (or a hand dryer), use the paper towel to turn off the tap and open the door, dispose of the paper towel

Additionally:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
• Use utensils: consider using forks, spoons or tooth picks when eating and

serving foods (especially snacks or “finger foods”)

Cough/Sneeze Etiquette

All employees are expected to follow cough/sneeze etiquette, which are a combination of preventative measures that minimizes the transmission of diseases via droplet or

airborne routes. Cough/sneeze etiquette includes the following components:

• Cover your mouth and nose with an elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing to reduce the spread of germs
• Use tissues to contain secretions, and immediately dispose of any tissues you have used into the garbage as soon as possible and wash your hands afterwards
• Turn your head away from others when coughing or sneezing

Use,and types of masks

CLEVER CUB will follow the most up-to-date directions and recommendations of the BCCDC in terms of mask use. There are different types of masks, and these masks have different levels of protection and recommendations for use. Please contact the office of Health & Safety and Emergency Preparedness for the most up-to-date information on mask use.

Surgical masks and N95 respirators should be reserved for healthcare workers, unless there is a regulatory requirement for the employee to be wearing an N95 respirator for work.

If you are healthy, wearing a cloth mask is a personal choice. Any use of masks must also be done in conjunction with proper hand washing and physical distancing.The use of a homemade mask should also be considered by members of the public who are symptomatic or caring for someone who is symptomatic as an interim measure if commercial masks are not available.

N95 Respirators

The N95 mask is an engineered respirator and is meant to be worn by workers directly involved in an aerosol generating medical procedure (as defined by Health Canada) or a scenario required by the BC Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. An N95 mask is a protective barrier that is worn on the face, covers at least the nose and mouth, and is used to contain large droplets generated during coughing and sneezing. N95s help minimize the spread of potentially infectious material. N95 masks must be fit tested.

Surgical Masks

A surgical mask, also known as a procedure mask, medical mask or simply as a face mask, is intended to be worn by health professionals during surgery and during nursing to catch the bacteria shed in liquid droplets and aerosols from the wearer's mouth and nose.

Cloth Masks

A cloth face mask is a mask made of common textiles, usually cotton, worn over the mouth and nose. Unlike surgical masks and respirators, they are not subject to regulation, and there is currently little research or guidance on their effectiveness as a protective measure against infectious disease transmission. Wearing a mask can help in containing a person’s own droplets and protect others but it will not protect the wearer from COVID-19. Masks may give a person a false sense of security and are likely to increase the number of times a person will touch their own face (e.g., to adjust the mask).

Additional Safe Work Practices

Additional safe work practices are being developed as CLEVER CUB responds as part of the COVID-19 response and will be separately made available. These practices are department specific and are highly dependent on the type of work being done.CLEVER CUB CHILDCARE Exposure Control Plan

Education and Training

CLEVER CUB in response to the COVID-19 will be emailing out regular updates with regards to our COVID policy and procedures.

As COVID-19 is a public health matter, information noted above is intended for all employees.

 

Health Monitoring

Based on public health requirements and guidelines, CLEVER CUB will employ protocols for daily health screening for employees and students.

Employees who have symptoms of cold or flu, or COVID-19, with any coughing or sneezing are not to work, as established by CLEVER CUB policies and procedures and public health guidance.

Employees and students concerned that they may have come into contact with someone who may be ill, are to take the following actions:

1. Report the incident to management.
2. Call BC’s HealthLink at 8-1-1 to share information regarding the incident and 4determine if any action needs to be taken.