The BCCDC have published a new COVID-19 point-of-care risk assessment (PCRA) tool. This gives more detail on some circumstances that might suggest an ‘elevated risk of COVID-19 transmission’ and where a healthcare worker would want to consider using a respirator (such as an N95). These circumstances include prolonged close proximity with someone who has suspected or confirmed COVID-19, or where there is prolonged unmasked coughing from the resident or client.

Healthcare workers using N95s must be properly fit-tested. SafeCare BC offers Qualitative Fit Tester Training, which has been developed in accordance with WorkSafeBC Regulations and CSA Standards. It enables participants who successfully complete the course to conduct qualitative fit tests on workers in their own continuing care organization who are using an N95 respirator (or equivalent).

SafeCare BC Member Pricing: $35 | Non-Members $110.

To register or find out more, visit the LEARNING [SPACE].

At SafeCare BC, we understand that the pandemic has been a trying time for many of you and we want you to know that we are here for you. We are committed to providing resources that support you while you care for your loved ones— because safety matters.

As visitation guidelines change, share our COVID-19: Social Visitation Essentials Course with visitors entering your care home.

It is a free self-paced, online course intended for those visiting a family member or friend residing in a long-term care home or assisted living residence, as permitted by the care home’s safety plan and the current regional public health orders. The course takes around 30-minutes to complete and was developed with the support of the Family Caregivers of BC. It offers:

• Instructions on how to help slow the transmission of COVID-19, including proper hand hygiene techniques and mask-wearing practices
• Details on where British Columbians can find current and reliable COVID-19 information
• An overview of the visitation guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health and BC Centre for Disease Control
• Ways to promote a respectful workplace environment in the care home

Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive a certificate that can be presented to the management personnel at the long-term care home or assisted living residence.
The course is offered for free directly from the SafeCare BC website. To access the course, please click here.
We encourage care home managers to share the free course with potential visitors, as it will help them stay up-to-date with current guidelines and know what to expect at their visit.