Guidance has been posted on the CFIA website about preventing and responding to COVID-19 in meat slaughter and processing establishments.
The guidance document outlines steps that meat slaughter and processing establishments are required to take to address exposure risks for both establishment and CFIA employees.
Establishments are required to have COVID-19 prevention documentation which clearly articulates mitigation measures intended to address exposure risks. It is recognized that certain public health measures may not be possible in plant operations; documentation should recognize this and outline the mitigation measures that are place.
Establishments are also required to have documentation that outlines its response to a suspect and confirmed case of COVID-19.
Mitigation and response planning documents:
describe the measures that have been put in place to prevent or minimize the occurrence or exposure of COVID-19.
Examples include:
Procedure or Policy documents
Sanitation practices/schedules/locations
Approach taken regarding physical distancing
Self/company health assessment protocols / practices and description of screening methods in place or any supporting procedural documents
Policy for your staff to report their, or their colleagues illness and corresponding notification to CFIA of any COVID-19 finding
describe the specific response/action plans that will be implemented when there is a finding of a COVID-19 positive employee.
These documents are critical and will be expected by the CFIA to maintain CFIA oversight at slaughter establishments.
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