Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project Introduction to the Program & Stage 2 Updates July 6, 2021
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Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement
Project
Introduction to the Program & Stage 2 Updates
July 6, 2021TDIN New Hire Update
This week we welcome Katelyn Cabral to our team as our Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC)
Resource Lead. Katelyn is helping to run the Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement
Project under The Neighbourhood Group. This program is working to aid drop-in centres in easily
accessing the most up-to-date information about preventing the spread of COVID-19 within its centres.
Katelyn will help to provide staff with in-person support, training, and resources, and will be working
with drop-ins to develop site-specific health and safety measures that follow current public health
guidelines. She will also serve as a resource for answering any questions sites may have along the way
and will provide continuous follow-up to assist in implementing practices that are realistic and feasible
for staff and participants. This program aims to guide drop-ins through current best practices to ensure
staff and participants are kept safe as programs begin re-opening across the city.
“Hi everyone,
I am honoured and excited to be joining the TDIN team as the IPAC Resource Lead. I understand that
these past 16 months have been incredibly difficult, and I want to help as much as I can to make you feel
safe as you consider reopening your centres.
As you are aware, the province of Ontario has entered Stage 2 of it’s Reopening Plan as of June 30th. I
have put together this referral document which is an amalgamation of multiple resources provided by
Toronto Public Health in hopes that it will be much easier for you all to access up to date information in
one place. I will continue to post updated documents as more information becomes available via the
TDIN website. All of the recommendations listed below can be modified to fit site specific needs, and I
will work one-on-one with you to implement these practices as much as possible. I will be reaching out
to sites via phone calls and e-mails, and am happy to work out a time that works best for you to
schedule walk-through visits. I am here for you and will do everything I can to help you, your staff, and
your participants feel as safe as possible during these uncertain times. How I will be supporting you:
• Making up to date information easily accessible
• Provide training and resources to staff (on-site or in person, depending on group size)
• Perform walk-throughs to identify ways to implement best practice that are site-specific
• Answer IPAC questions regarding COVID-19
• Provide follow-up and check-ins as practices are implemented
Please feel free to reach out to me any time. You can e-mail me at tdinipac@tngcs.org
Thank you for welcoming me into your centres, and I look forward to working with you all.
Sincerely,
Katelyn Cabral”
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 1
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community HouseTable of Contents
PROVINCE ENTERS STAGE 2 OF ITS REOPENING PLAN: WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR DROP-INS? ......................... 3
GENERAL GUIDANCE FROM TORONTO PUBLIC HEALTH FOR COMMUNITY NON-PROFIT SERVICES:...................... 3
CONTENT OUTLINED IN THIS DOCUMENT: ............................................................................................................................ 4
• Protective Measures to Keep Everyone safe ............................................................................................... 4
• Masks/face coverings to be worn by all staff and participants .................................................................. 4
Sample policy and checklist...................................................................................................................................... 4
• Specific Measures for all Workplaces, Businesses and Organizations ........................................................ 4
• Having a Safety Plan ................................................................................................................................... 4
• Tracking attendance ................................................................................................................................... 4
• HVAC systems.............................................................................................................................................. 4
• Maintain Physical distancing ...................................................................................................................... 5
• Modify spaces to allow for physical distancing .......................................................................................... 5
• Consider installing transparent barriers ..................................................................................................... 5
• Make modifications to services and programming .................................................................................... 5
• Modify equipment use ................................................................................................................................ 6
• Meal Programs............................................................................................................................................ 6
• Support and promote healthy commuting ................................................................................................. 7
• Vaccination ................................................................................................................................................. 7
o For residents without OHIP Cards: ........................................................................................................................... 8
• Increase public health awareness ............................................................................................................... 9
COVID-19 PREVENTION CHECKLIST FOR COMMUNITY NON-PROFIT SERVICES..................................................... 9
CHECKLIST POINTS: ....................................................................................................................................................... 10
Have a Safety Plan in Place ....................................................................................................................... 10
o How to Complete a Safety Plan Checklist .............................................................................................................. 10
o Sample safety plan ................................................................................................................................................. 10
r Universal Mask Policy ............................................................................................................................... 10
r Staff Health and Screening ....................................................................................................................... 11
o COVID-19 Staff and Visitor Screening Form for Homelessness Service Settings ................................................... 11
o COVID-19 Staff & Visitor Screening Visual Poster .................................................................................................. 11
o COVID-19 Client Screening Tool for Homelessness Service Settings: .................................................................... 11
o COVID-19 Client Screening Visual Poster: .............................................................................................................. 11
r Signage at the Premises ............................................................................................................................ 11
r Number of People in Settings.................................................................................................................... 11
r Maintaining Attendance Records ............................................................................................................. 12
r Workstations ............................................................................................................................................. 12
r Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection ................................................................................................. 12
o Cleaning and Disinfection for Public Settings ........................................................................................................ 12
o How to Maintain a Clean Workplace During COVID-19 ......................................................................................... 12
IPAC TRAINING MODULES .............................................................................................................................. 13
ACCESS TO COOLING CENTRES IN THE CITY OF TORONTO ................................................................................ 13
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 2
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community HouseProvince Enters Stage 2 of its Reopening Plan: What Does This Mean for
Drop-Ins?
“On January 4, 2021, Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health issued a Letter of Instruction to all employers
in the City of Toronto permitted to be open under the Reopening Ontario Act. Employers permitted to
be open are required to take the additional measures set out in this Letter to reduce the spread of
COVID-19.” (Toronto Public Health, https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-what-you-should-
do/covid-19-orders-directives-by-laws/?accordion=medical-officer-of-health-instructions-for-workplaces)
This letter can be found here:
https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/95fd-Medical-Officer-of-Health-Letter-of-
Instruction-to-Workplaces-Jan-4-21.pdf
General Guidance from Toronto Public Health for Community Non-Profit
Services:
As of June 30th, 2021
“Community centres and multi-purpose facilities may open to permit space to be used for:
• A day camp operated in a manner consistent with the COVID-19 safety guidelines produced by
the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health.
• A child care centre or authorized recreational and skill building program within the meaning of
the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014.
• The provision of social services.
• Mental health or substance use support services, as long as no more than 10 people are
permitted to occupy the rented space.
• Indoor and outdoor sports and recreational fitness activities that are permitted to be open.
• The use of outdoor pools, splash pads, spray pads and wading pools.
• Indoor activities and services, other than indoor sports and recreational fitness activities.”
(Toronto Public Health, https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-reopening-recovery-
rebuild/covid-19-reopening-guidelines-for-businesses-organizations/covid-19-guidance-community-
agencies/)
If you are considering re-opening at this time or have remained open, it is important to learn
more about how to keep staff and participants safe. Please refer to the guidance document
created by Toronto Public Health for FULL details and for the most recent information as we
enter Stage 2, found here: https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/965e-
Guidance_Community-Non-Profit-Services.pdf.
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 3
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community HouseContent outlined in this document:
• Protective Measures to Keep Everyone safe (including getting a COVID-19 vaccine, staying
home when sick, maintaining physical distancing, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, wearing a
face mask, and cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces).
• Masks/face coverings to be worn by all staff and participants
o “The use of non-medical masks or face coverings is required by everyone in all indoor
public spaces, as per a City of Toronto bylaw and O. Reg. 82/20. Some exceptions apply.
o Workplaces are required to develop a policy on the wearing of masks.”
Sample policy and checklist: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-
reopening-recovery-rebuild/covid-19-reopening-guidelines-for-businesses-
organizations/covid-19-guidance-employers-workplaces-
businesses/?accordion=covid-19-checklist-on-mask-by-law-sample-policy
o “Masks are strongly recommended in outdoor settings when physical distancing is
difficult.
o Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as mask, face shield, eye
protection, that cover the eyes, nose and mouth must be worn by staff/volunteers if,
while providing service in an indoor area, they:
are required to come within two metres of another person who is not wearing a
mask or face covering; and
are not separated by plexiglass or some other impermeable barrier.
o Consider other ways to provide service to people who cannot wear a mask. For
example, provide service at the end of the day, with no other clients in the location.”
• Specific Measures for all Workplaces, Businesses and Organizations
o Screening staff and participants before each shift, asking clients to self-screen before
entering the centre, offer to reschedule client appointments if they are sick.
o Cleaning and disinfection (eg: remind participants not to share items, label and separate
clean and dirty laundry items, sanitize laundry baskets between use; place dirty laundry
in a lined bin; wash laundry in a washing machine with hot water and detergent, use the
dryer to further kill any remaining virus).
o Hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette (encourage frequent hand hygiene, ensure all
staff and participants have the chance to perform hand hygiene).
• Having a Safety Plan (see checklist later in document for further details).
• Tracking attendance (Keep track of everyone who comes into the centre each day, and at what
time, for public health contact tracing purposes. Be sure to obtain a name and phone number of
individuals coming into the centre, encourage individuals to download the COVID Alert App).
• HVAC systems
o “Regularly check HVAC systems to ensure they are functioning and in good working
order.
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 4
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community Houseo Increase the introduction and circulation of outdoor air by maximizing the outdoor air
ratio of the HVAC system settings, or by opening windows and doors, where possible.
Avoid recirculating air.
o Where provided, use the highest efficiency filters that are compatible with the HVAC
system.
o Increase air-exchanges if possible.
o Keep areas near HVAC inlets and outlets clear.
Seating should be arranged away from areas with high airflow (i.e. not in front
of air vents).
o Facilities without HVAC systems should increase ventilation by opening windows and
doors. However, do not open windows and doors if doing so poses a safety risk to staff
and customers.
o Rooms where ceiling fans are used should have an upward airflow rotation.
o If portable fans are used, limit the blowing of air across people and surfaces by
positioning them to provide an upward movement of air.
o There is no evidence for the use of portable air purifiers to prevent the spread of COVID-
19. If used, follow the manufacturer’s directions (and possibly the advice of a service
professional) to decide where best to place the device. Follow the manufacturer’s
instructions on maintenance.”
o For further details, please see: https://www.toronto.ca/wp-
content/uploads/2020/10/8de9-COVID19-Transmission-Aerosols-Ventilation.pdf
• Maintain Physical distancing (keeping a distance of at least 2 metres from others; limit the
number of people onsite; the number of people in a space should be limited to allow for a
distance of 2 metres to be maintained at all times; capacity cannot exceed 50% of any given
room; remind staff and participants to maintain physical distance, remind others to use a wave
or nod rather than a handshake to greet one another). *NOTE: physical distancing must not
compromise the safety or supervision of others.
• Modify spaces to allow for physical distancing (eg: spacing out furniture; removing unnecessary
furniture to allow for easy movement; provide visual guides like tape on floors and tables, or use
things such as pylons or flags to indicate 2 metres; limit entrances; post signage to remind
others to maintain physical distance).
• Consider installing transparent barriers (eg: plexiglass)
• Make modifications to services and programming
o “Comply with provincial regulations as to what services may be open.
o Cancel or hold virtually all in-person activities that are discretionary.
o Implement work from home wherever possible and appropriate work from home
procedures.
o Use telephone or video conferencing when possible for meetings.
o Consider using an appointment or registration system for programs/ services that must
be in-person.
o Offer in-person programming outdoors whenever possible.
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 5
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community HouseIf using a tent or canopy, at least two full sides must be open to the outdoors
and not substantially blocked by any walls or other impermeable barriers.
Limit capacity under the tent/canopy to ensure physical distancing can be
maintained.
Arrange tables and chairs to promote physical distancing.
Require masks or face coverings if physical distancing cannot be maintained.
o Do not have clients wait in a waiting room. Ask clients to call when they arrive and wait
outside.
o If multiple programs are provided onsite at the same time, stagger program activities,
snack times, meals and washroom breaks to reduce contact between participants from
different programs.
o Where possible, establish cohort groups consisting of the same clients and staff rather
than mixing groups.
o Assign cohort groups a designated room/space.
o Incorporate and prioritize individual activities that encourage more space between
participants so that physical distancing can be maintained.”
• Modify equipment use (provide single-use, easy-to-disinfect, or disposable items to
participants; minimize item sharing; provide individualized bins for supplies).
• Meal Programs
o “Meal programs are permitted if they support the provision of food to individuals who
are economically disadvantaged or otherwise vulnerable. Such meals programs are
exempt from the indoor dining restrictions, however, precautions must be taken in
addition to others mentioned in this document:
Offer take-away options, as appropriate.
Offer pre-packaged/assembled meals to reduce line-ups.
Provide single-use dishes, cups and cutlery.
Remove high-touch items such as water pitchers, salt shakers, etc., and provide
single use packages/items, if possible.
Discourage sharing of food and drinks.
Have staff/volunteers serve participants while they remain seated, as
appropriate, to reduce participants having to get up.
Participants must maintain physical distancing while waiting in line inside and
outside the facility. Masks must be worn while waiting in line inside and are
recommended outside.
Encourage participants to wash their hands or use 70-90% alcohol-based hand
sanitizer, provided their hands are not visibly soiled, before entering the space
and/or eating.
Participants must be seated at least two metres/six feet apart from others they
don’t live with.
Provide extra space for belongings, as required.
Participants should remove their mask only while eating and drinking.
Clean and sanitized surfaces, furniture and items after each use.”
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 6
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community HouseFor further information on “Guidance for Food Service Premises, see:
https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-reopening-recovery-
rebuild/covid-19-reopening-guidelines-for-businesses-organizations/covid-19-
guidance-food-premises/?accordion=restaurants-bars-other-food-service-
premises
• Support and promote healthy commuting
o Use of public transit is not currently recommended, however…
o “Provide guidance to staff, volunteers and clients who commute via public transit or
ride-share /taxi:
Wear a mask and open the windows, if possible.
Use elbow/arm to push buttons/open doors.
Sit in the back when using taxi and ride share.
Avoid travel during peak hours, if possible.
Avoid touching your face.
Do not use transit if you are sick or self-isolating.”
o For further guidance related to taxis and ride sharing, see:
https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-reopening-recovery-rebuild/covid-19-
reopening-guidelines-for-businesses-organizations/covid-19-guidance-taxis-ride-shares/
• Vaccination
o Encourage staff and participants ages 12 and above to get a COVID-19 vaccine (more
vaccine information found at: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-
protect-yourself-others/covid-19-vaccines/covid-19-about-the-vaccines/)
o Post educational posters about the COVID-19 vaccine
Posters: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-protect-yourself-
others/covid-19-vaccines/covid-19-vaccine-resources/
o Mobile Peer Ambassador Program
“SSHA has been working closely with Toronto Shelter Network, Toronto Public
Health (TPH), Social Development & Financial Administration (SDFA) and other
community partners to address vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccination rates
for people experiencing homelessness.
A new peer ambassador program has launched, led by The Neighbourhood
Group. Initially, peer workers will visit shelter sector sites with identified lower
vaccine uptake (those reportingIf you would like to set up a vaccination clinic at your drop-in centre, Inner City
Health Associates (ICHA) has a Mobile Vaccine Team which will provide
vaccinations for staff and clients. To inquire about setting up a vaccine clinic,
please reach out to Grace Richandi at grace.richandi@icha-toronto.ca
o Sunnybrook Hospital Youth Clinic
By appointment only
https://covidvaccine.sunnybrook.ca/covid-vaccine/gp/self-schedule
First doses
• Anyone age 12+ can book an appointment for the first dose of the
COVID-19 vaccine at Sunnybrook. Please note: You must be at least 12
years old at the time of booking.
Second doses
• Youths: Anyone age 12-17 can book a second-dose vaccine
appointment at Sunnybrook if they got their first dose of Pfizer more
than 28 days ago.
• Adults: Anyone age 18+ can book a second-dose vaccine appointment
at Sunnybrook if they live, work or go to school in any M postal code
and got their first dose of an mRNA vaccine (either Pfizer or Moderna)
more than 28 days ago. Anyone who got a first dose of AstraZeneca
vaccine more than 8 weeks ago can also book a second dose of mRNA
vaccine using the online booking link below.
• They are administering Moderna to adults age 18+. All adults who have
an appointment at our vaccination clinic will receive the Moderna
mRNA vaccine. They will continue to give Moderna vaccine to all adults
until further notice. They have no timeline for any update on this.
• Youth ages 12-17 vaccinated in our clinic will receive Pfizer.
• There is no opportunity to request a different brand of vaccine.
o July 8 & July 9, 2021 from 11am – 7:30pm the City of Toronto is holding a special
second dose clinic for people with disabilities ages 16+ at the Metro Toronto
Convention Centre.
Approximately 900 spots are still available
Book here: https://tphbookings.ca/tph/accessibility_clinic
By appointment. Only 2nd doses. Accommodations can be made.
o July 8th, 2021 @ 6pm: Toronto Youth Cabinet - July Meeting - Session on C19
Vaccination
Session open to all youth between the ages of 13 and 24 who live, work, or
learn in the City of Toronto.
Registration required: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/july-cabinet-meeting-
virtual-tickets-162446934153
o For residents without OHIP Cards:
Access Alliance
• Telephone: 416-760-8677
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 8
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community House• Monday, Tuesday, Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Wednesday: 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Thursday: 12:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Phone interpretation services are available for appointments as needed.
Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture
• Telephone: 416-306-4319
• Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday: 1 to 5 p.m.
• Phone interpretation services are available as needed
FCJ Refugee Centre
• Telephone: 416-469-9754 ext. 230 and 232; WhatsApp: 4372173786
• Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Email: vaccine@fcjrefugeecentre.org;
• Phone interpretation services are available for appointments as needed.
“Residents without an OHIP card can also book their COVID-19 vaccination
appointment through hospitals and Ontario Health Team-led clinics by
visiting www.vaccineto.ca” (Toronto Public Health,
https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-protect-yourself-
others/covid-19-vaccines/covid-19-how-to-get-vaccinated/)
How to Get Vaccinated Without an OHIP Card Infographic Translations in
Multiple Languages: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-protect-
yourself-others/covid-19-vaccines/covid-19-vaccine-
resources/?accordion=posters-pamphlets
o For further information regarding City Immunization Clinics, Transportation to Clinics,
Mobile Immunization Clinics, etc., see: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-
19-protect-yourself-others/covid-19-vaccines/covid-19-how-to-get-vaccinated/
o How to access vaccination for people experiencing homelessness:
https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/97ad-Resource-People-
experienching-homelessness-vaccine-summary-May-19-2021-for-web.pdf
• Increase public health awareness (eg: communicate changes to staff, volunteers and
participants and inform them of how you will help keep them safe; post educational signage in
areas of high visibility).
o Educational Posters: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-how-you-can-
help/covid-19-spread-the-word/
COVID-19 Prevention Checklist for Community Non-Profit Services.
Toronto Public Health has also created this helpful checklist. For FULL details, please visit
https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/9678-Community-Services-
Checklist.pdf.
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 9
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community HouseChecklist points:
Have a Safety Plan in Place
o “Prepare and make available a safety plan that describes the measures that have been
or will be implemented to reduce spread of COVID-19, including measures for screening,
physical distancing, masks, cleaning, disinfecting, personal protective equipment and
preventing and controlling crowding.”
o This checklist must be in writing, should be available for review upon request, and must
be posted in a place that is visible to all individuals attending the location.
o How to Complete a Safety Plan Checklist: https://www.toronto.ca/wp-
content/uploads/2021/01/9520-COVID-19-Safety-Plan-Checklist-Instructions.pdf
o Sample safety plan: https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/8e4b-
COVID-19-Safety-Plan-Checklist-Fillable.pdf)
r Universal Mask Policy
o “Create a universal mask policy for your agency per as per the City of
Toronto bylaw and Reg. 263/20 . Use this sample template as an example.
o Communicate your universal mask policy to all staff, clients and visitors.
o Have non-medical masks or face coverings available on-site for staff and clients at all
times.
o Have personal protective equipment (PPE) available on-site for staff, as appropriate.”
PPE supplies are now available through the federal government at NO COST
“You can now request personal protective equipment (PPE) and critical supplies
at no cost through Stream 3 of the Government of Canada's Essential Services
Contingency Reserve (ESCR):
o Step 1: Register your organization by completing the online
registration form .
o Step 2: Once you are notified that your registration has been
approved, you will also receive login credentials to access the online
catalogue and request the critical supplies your organization
requires.
o Step 3: You will receive the status of your request by email and be
asked to confirm that you are ordering the approved supplies.
Once your organization's application is accepted, your request may be
accepted in full or in part based on the availability of requested supplies.
Please note that the Government of Canada reserves the right to limit
quantities if necessary. Supplies are available on a “first- come, first-served”
basis.” (City of Toronto: Shelter, Support & Housing Administration
Memorandum from June 18, 2021).
o “Ensure masks are properly used, cleaned/discarded.”
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 10
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community Houseo It is important to note that the use of masks or face coverings is still mandatory in all
indoor public settings in Ontario. For further detail, please visit:
https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-reopening-recovery-rebuild/covid-19-
reopening-guidelines-for-businesses-organizations/covid-19-guidance-employers-
workplaces-businesses/?accordion=covid-19-checklist-on-mask-by-law-sample-policy
r Staff Health and Screening
o “Advise staff to report COVID-19 symptoms to their supervisor/manager and to stay
home if sick.
o Actively screen staff before starting each shift.
o If staff become sick with COVID-19 symptoms while at work, advise them to go home
immediately and self-isolate. Instruct them to call Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000, their
health care provider or an Assessment Centre to get tested.
o Immediately notify Toronto Public Health using the Workplace Reporting Tool as soon
as you become aware of two or more people who test positive for COVID-19 within a
14-day interval in connection with the premises.
o “Train staff on proper hand hygiene techniques and respiratory etiquette.”
o COVID-19 Staff and Visitor Screening Form for Homelessness Service Settings:
https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/9680-Covid-Screening-
FormStaff-and-VisitorApril-8-2021.pdf
o COVID-19 Staff & Visitor Screening Visual Poster: https://www.toronto.ca/wp-
content/uploads/2021/05/9833-Staff-Visitor-Screening-Questionnaire-for-
Homelessness-Service-Settings.pdf
o COVID-19 Client Screening Tool for Homelessness Service Settings:
https://www.toronto.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/8ee8-COVID-19-Screening-
FormClient-Homelessness-SettingsApril-8-2021.pdf
o COVID-19 Client Screening Visual Poster: https://www.toronto.ca/wp-
content/uploads/2021/05/901f-Client-Screening-Questionnaire-for-Homelessness-
Service-Settings.pdf
r Signage at the Premises
o “Post the following signage:
COVID-19 health assessment , and the number of people permitted in the space
at the entrance.
Mandatory mask wearing at the entrance.
Handwashing and respiratory etiquette at the entrance and throughout the
premises.
Physical distancing signage and floor stickers to remind clients to keep two
metres/six feet apart from others at all times.”
o More sample posters: https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-how-you-can-
help/covid-19-spread-the-word/)
r Number of People in Settings
o “Modify job responsibilities and offer telework options, as much as possible.
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 11
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community HouseoConsider implementing flexible work schedules, staggered lunch and break times to limit
the number of people in the setting at one time.
o Cancel or hold virtually all in-person activities that are discretionary.
o Limit organized groups and gatherings to those which are permitted under provincial
regulation and that must occur in person.
Hold these programs/services outdoors, if possible.
o Limit the number of people in attendance so that staff and participants can maintain at
least two metres/six feet physical distancing at all times.
o Consider an appointment/ registration system for services that must be in-person, if
possible.
o Instruct clients to wait outside until their scheduled appointment or program begins.
Waiting areas are not permitted.”
r Maintaining Attendance Records
o “Maintain attendance records for staff, volunteers, clients and visitors, including: full
name, telephone number, email address, date and time at the agency. Information from
clients is voluntary and can only be used for COVID-19 contact tracing, should the need
arise
o Protect the personal information collected. Keep records for 30 days and then shred.
o Encourage staff and clients to download the COVID Alert app so they can be notified
directly if they have been in close contact with someone who was contagious with
COVID-19.”
r Workstations
o “Ensure workstations and equipment in use are at least two metres/six feet apart, or
equipped with barriers/dividers that are adequate in height to ensure the protection
between clients and staff.
o Provide hand sanitizer with 70-90% alcohol concentration throughout the space, and
encourage staff and clients to use it frequently.”
r Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection
o “Ensure there is enough time between client programs or appointments to thoroughly
clean and disinfect equipment and workspaces.
o Clean work surfaces and equipment thoroughly with soap and water before disinfection.
o Use disinfectants after cleaning, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
o Frequently clean and disinfect (at least twice daily) high-touch surfaces and common
areas (e.g., door handles, counters, cabinet doors, light switches, faucets, toilet handles,
handrails, touch screen surfaces and keypads). Maintain a cleaning log book for records.
o Regularly review heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to ensure
they are functioning and in good working order. Increase ventilation, if possible.”
o Cleaning and Disinfection for Public Settings: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-
/media/documents/ncov/factsheet-covid-19-environmental-
cleaning.pdf?la=en&sc_lang=en&hash=BBEEA3391688456A52B920483D34F6DB
o How to Maintain a Clean Workplace During COVID-19: https://www.toronto.ca/wp-
content/uploads/2020/09/8d6a-Maintain-a-clean-workspace-during-covid-19.pdf
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 12
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community HouseFor further information on guidelines for Community Organizations, please visit:
https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-reopening-recovery-rebuild/covid-19-reopening-
guidelines-for-businesses-organizations/
For further information on guidelines for Homelessness Services and Congregate Living Settings,
please visit:
https://www.toronto.ca/home/covid-19/covid-19-reopening-recovery-rebuild/covid-19-reopening-
guidelines-for-businesses-organizations/covid-19-guidance-homelessness-services-congregate-living-
settings/
IPAC Training Modules
Toronto Public Health has put together very helpful training modules to help staff in homelessness
settings learn more about specific Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) measures. If you or your staff
are interested in learning more, you can visit this link for these free training modules:
https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/community-partners/emergency-shelter-
operators/training-modules/
Access to Cooling Centres in the City of Toronto
“The City of Toronto will activate Emergency Cooling Centres when a Heat Alert is issued by
Environment & Climate Change Canada (ECCC) for Toronto region. Emergency Cooling Centres provide
air-conditioned resting spaces to the public. Centres open at 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. on the day an alert is
issued, with the exception of Metro Hall, which will be open 24 hours and will remain open until noon
on the day an alert is terminated. All services will be delivered following ongoing COVID-19 protocols to
ensure the safety of those using the centres. This includes encouraging physical distancing, the
mandatory use of masks, and hand washing.” (Toronto Public Health:
https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellness-care/health-programs-advice/hot-
weather/cool-spaces-near-you/#location=&lat=43.653963&lng=-79.208679)
For more information on accessing Cooling Centres, please visit:
https://www.toronto.ca/community-people/health-wellness-care/health-programs-advice/hot-
weather/cool-spaces-near-you/#location=&lat=43.653963&lng=-79.208679
The Toronto Drop-In Network COVID Support and Engagement Project is funded by the City of Toronto and is 13
supported by Inner City Health Associates.
260 Augusta Avenue, Toronto, ON M5T 2L9
TDIN: Trusteed by The Neighbourhood Group | St. Stephen's Community HouseYou can also read
