Alberta Health Services inspectors have followed up on 330 public complaints about Red Deer workplaces not complying with public health measures during the pandemic.
Anyone who’s found to be in violation — such as businesses that are continuing to admit members of the public if they are supposed to close, that are operating with inadequate social distancing space, or holding gatherings of more than 15 people — can face a $1,000 penalty.
That no fines have been levied, so far, means people (including business owners) have been willing to change their practices to comply with public health orders, states AHS.
“Every effort is made to work with owners/operators before moving to enforcement action…”
With so many non-essential businesses temporarily shut down, AHS has been able to focus its inspections on places where the threat of COVID-19 transmission is the greatest — seniors facilities, homeless shelters, grocery stores, restaurants and food processing plants.
“This enables us to triage inspectors … to conduct high demand and risk management inspections.”
While pools, schools, day cares, gyms and sporting arenas are not operating for now, businesses performing an essential service, such as food processing, are allowed to run with more than 15 people on a worksite — as long as risk mitigation strategies are implemented and followed.
According to AHS, public health inspectors will continue to respond to public complaints and follow up on outstanding critical violations wherever a risk of COVID-19 transmission could place an extra burden on the health system.
Health inspectors are also responding to complaints about individuals who fail to self-isolate if sick, or who are not practising proper physical distancing by staying two metres away from others.
In such cases, the inspector will first outline what’s required and the risks associated with their activities, then ask them to change their behaviour, says AHS.
If the individuals do not follow the directive, the inspector will refer the matter to a police or peace officer, who can issue a $1,000 fine.
lmichelin@reddeeradvocate.com
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