The provincial government has announced details of plans for safe agricultural worker camps at sites across B.C.
All seasonal fruit pickers will need to take a new online COVID-19 awareness course through AgSafe, an independent association representing B.C. farm employer and worker organizations.
The course will outline the rights and responsibilities of both employers and workers when it comes to COVID-19 and the provincial health officer's rules and guidelines.
"Seasonal fruit pickers are a crucial part of our food supply system, helping to get delicious, B.C.-grown fruit, such as cherries, apples, grapes and berries, onto our plates," said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture.
"Our government is protecting these workers and local residents by making sure workers have a safe place to camp and are educated on the rules and guidelines Dr. Bonnie Henry has put in place here in British Columbia. The goal is to ensure community safety and this is an important step towards that."
To stay at one of the sites, workers must supply proof that they have completed the online COVID-19 course, available in English and French, and passed the final quiz. Topics covered include physical distancing, hygiene and cleaning, work pods, transportation, tools and equipment, safeguarding community and First Nations health and monitoring employee health.
The course is available on AgSafe's website and will be distributed by the BC Agricultural Council and BC Fruit Growers' Association to their members.
