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BC tree-planting guidelines released to battle COVID-19 risks

B.C. tree planting companies are now required to implement plans to fight the spread of COVID-19 at work camps, reports the Prince George Citizen. These plans also include field camps and hotel accommodations following an order put out by B.C.’s provincial health officer Bonnie Henry.

The order issued on April 23, sets out prevention, control and inspection protocols. The BC Centre for Disease Control guidelines for those working in the silviculture sector require:

• screening of workers for COVID-19  symptoms or potential exposure;

• added hygiene measures in camps, including hand washing stations;

• training workers on staying safe while traveling to camp and to worksites;

• food preparation guidelines;

• limiting travel outside of camp, and;

• having at least one infection and control co-ordinator at each site.

The B.C. sector employs around 5,000 planters each year, many from outside the province or other countries.

Read the full story here.