COVID-19

This resource page is under construction and is being rapidly updated. Please continue to check back for more information. (2021-01-12)

The spread of COVID-19 has changed the everyday reality for workers around the world. Workers United Canada Council is committed to helping you and your loved ones navigate employment, emergency relief, and health & safety at this difficult time. All Workers United staff are continuing to work remotely and are available by e-mail and by phone. Please e-mail [email protected] with any concerns and you will be promptly connected with the appropriate staff person.

Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to receive our latest updates. 

COVID-19 PANDEMIC UPDATE

Your team at Workers United Canada Council is concerned about our members, their families, and the communities they live in.

Please note that if you are laid off you do not pay union dues. 

We are concerned about the workers who have to go to work because they are deemed essential, see the provincial links below, and are fighting on many fronts to flatten the curve as they fight this pandemic. We are concerned about our members who have been laid off and face uncertainty with a reduced income through Employment Insurance.

Information about the COVID-19 virus is changing regularly and we are working on updates as information becomes available.
Here are some simple practices you can do to prevent contracting and spreading the virus:
  • Hand washing with soap and water for 20 seconds
  • Clean all hard surfaces in your home regularly with a sanitizer
  • Staying home if you have any of these symptoms
  • Protecting yourself

WORKPLACE SAFETY AND PREVENTION SERVICES

WSPS offers free e-course on pandemic awareness: The WSPS offers free e-course from Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) focuses on the impact a pandemic may have on workplaces and our communities.

Check out the e-course here.

NOT FEELING WELL
Call your local Public Health Unit if you have any of these symptoms to see if you should go to a COVID-19 Assessment Centre. Seek medical attention at a COVID-19 Assessment Centre if the symptoms get worse or last more than a day.

You can also access Ontario's online self-assessment tool here.
IS YOUR WORKPLACE READY
CREATING YOUR 'MY ACCOUNT' ON CANADA WEBSITE
NEED TO FILE EMPLOYMENT INSURANCE
 
If you are off work as a result of the COVID-19 virus or need to file for EI for other circumstances it is strongly recommended you set up your account with Service Canada online and apply online. Make sure you have some paper handy to make notes and write your account information. You will also need you bank account information for Direct deposit set-up.

Call  1833-381-2725 to get your waiting period waived.   

Note: Most employers file your Record of Employment (ROE) electronically so you will likely not need a paper copy. If you work or have more than one job, you will need a ROE from each workplace. If you don't have a ROE you should still make an application.

Click here to file for EI under all circumstances.

Employment Insurance line for those in quarantine: 1-833-381-2725  

*IMPORTANT: All Service Canada offices are now closed. As an alternative, you may access their services online.

CHANGES TO EMPLOYMENT INSURANCE (SEPT 2020)
As of September 27, 2020, there are some temporary changes to the EI program to help you access EI benefits. These changes will be in effect for 1 year. Go to EI benefits and leave to find the benefit type that applies to your situation. The following changes could apply to you:
  • A minimum unemployment rate of 13.1% applies to all regions across Canada starting August 9, 2020
    • If your region’s unemployment rate is higher than 13.1%, we’ll use the higher actual rate to calculate your benefits
  • You only need 120 insured hours to qualify for benefits because you’ll receive a one-time credit of:
    • 300 insured hours if you’re applying for regular benefits
    • 480 insured hours if you’re applying for sickness, maternity, parental or caregiving benefits
  • You’ll receive at least $500 per week before taxes, or $300 per week before taxes for extended parental benefits but you could receive more
  • If you’re applying for sickness benefits, you do not need to submit a medical certificate
  • If you’re a fisher, we’ll look at the earnings from your 2018, 2019 and 2020 summer or winter seasons to determine your benefit rate and establish your claim for the same season
  • If you received the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), the 52-week period to accumulate insured hours will be extended
  
ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE 
ARE YOU AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE
ADDITION RESOURCES
For Ontario:
For Saskatchewan:
HELPFUL VIDEOS
INTERESTING LINKS
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
1. If your employer uses hand or finger scanners they stop using these systems during this outbreak and have supervisors or managers check in with each and every member for attendance purposes and to check in on the employees well being. 
2. Take breaks in smaller groups so you can practice social distancing and sanitize all table, chairs and doors in between breaks. 

STAY SAFE

© 2018 WORKERS UNITED CANADA COUNCIL

Toll free: 1-800-268-4064    |    Email: [email protected]

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