The Ontario and Quebec governments released a list of essential workplaces that will remain open during the pandemic. The lists were made available to the public on March 23.
Working from home or online will still be permitted for all businesses.
For the HVAC/R industry, this means that many are still allowed to work and operate. In Ontario, businesses that provide support and maintenance services such as plumbers, management services, electricians, fire safety and sprinkler systems, building systems maintenance and repair technicians and engineers, mechanical (like HVAC technicians), and other service providers. Businesses that provide chemicals and gases to support natural resources involving drinking water and wastewater, were also on the list.
The construction industry was also included as part of the list. Construction projects and services associated with the healthcare sector, required to ensure the operations of provincial infrastructure, demolition services, and support health and safety environment rehabilitation can also keep operating.
For the full list, please visit www.ontario.ca/page/list-essential-workplaces.
Quebec
The Quebec government has ordered the closing of all non-essential stores and services as of March 25. Construction has been deemed part of those non-essential services, however, construction firms for emergency dispatching or security; electricians, plumbers and other trades for emergency services; rental equipment; and building-maintenance firms (elevators, ventilation, and alarms) will remain open and are considered essential.
For the full list, please visit www.quebec.ca/en/health/health-issues/a-z/2019-coronavirus/essential-services-commercial-activities-covid19/.