London city hall has released a draft report on it's COVID-19 vaccine policy for city workers however, city politicians will not be affected.
A draft policy sent by City Manager Lynne Livingstone to city council's Corporate Services Committee outlines the new rules and will be presented during Monday's council meeting.
The policy does not apply to city councillors.
If approved, employees will begin to declare their vaccination status by September 15. Those who aren't vaccinated will be required to submit to regular testing or complete a vaccination education session starting October 1.
According to the report, all active employees, staff, contractors, consultants working in city facilities volunteers, interns and students will be asked to submit proof of their full COVID-19 vaccination, or a written attestation of the medical reason or Ontario Human Rights Code reason for not being fully immunized. Additionally, the policy does not apply to employees currently on a leave of absence or employees of The Dearness Home whose policies are mandated by the province.
"Throughout the pandemic, as health guidance has changed, all efforts have been made to ensure that City practices and procedures are aligned with these changes, taking every precaution to prevent the spread of COVID-19," the report read.
To support rapid testing, the city has hired a third party to administer rapid tests. The cost will work out to be around $2,000 to $3,000 per week and will be accommodated within the 2020-23 multi-year budget.
The report also adds the purpose of the policy is to reduce the risk of COVID-19 in the workplace and to provide safe environments for both employees and the public.
"Vaccination, in combination with health and safety precautions, have been identified by public health as the single most effective means of reducing the transmission of COVID-19 in the workplace and in our community," the report states.
