Health and Safety of Border Services Officers

Date: April 27, 2020

Classification: Unclassified

Branch/Agency: HRB/CBSA

Proposed Response:

If pressed on training of PPE:

Background:

CBSA port of entry management provides regular briefings to staff on the enhanced measures and procedures in place. In addition,  officers are briefed on emerging issues as they arise, as well as any upcoming potential situations or changes to practices

In addition to the regular briefings to staff provided by CBSA port of entry management, when available, and at locations where PHAC resources are on site or in the vicinity, PHAC officers attend  shift briefings to support CBSA port of entry management, and ensure that CBSA officers have the most up to date information, understanding of trends, as well as an opportunity to ask questions related to COVID-19, including how to protect themselves and about potential risks.

The health and safety of its officers is of utmost importance to the CBSA. At this time, Health Canada has advised officers interacting with travellers to wear gloves when handling the documents and baggage of potentially ill persons and, to wear gloves, eye/face protection and a mask when escorting and remaining with an ill person. Staff continue to be briefed and trained in the proper use of personal protection equipment.

Supplemental information from Health Canada on Border Services Officers training

As part of Highly Toxic Substance (i.e. opioid) procedures, all Border Services Officers need to be trained on proper donning and doffing of Personal Protective Equipment (including N95). CBSA has an internal video for this purpose. In accordance with the Agency’s Respiratory Protection Program, employees cannot wear respirators without being fit tested to ensure an adequate fit. 

In light of COVID 19, regional management arranged for supplemental, local training sessions for CBSA officers by Health Canada nurses.  

Contacts:

Approved by: Louise Youdale, Vice-President, Human Resources Branch, [REDACTED]

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