COVID-19 Information

On this page you will find:

NOTO would like to hear from industry about any cancellations, concerns you or your clients may have surrounding COVID-19, or any other impacts you may be noticing. We would like to stay up-to-date on all developments to keep members and Government informed.

This page will be updated regularly as the situation unfolds. *Last updated October 4th, 2022

What’s New on This Page

  • Border Restrictions Removed Effective October 1st, 2022

NOTO’s Health and Safety Protocols

NOTO has worked closely with our industry-led task force to develop health and safety protocols which cover all aspects of tourism from check-in, accommodations ranging from cabins to outposts and houseboats, and services related to hunting and fishing. These protocols have been vetted by Workplace Safety and Prevention Services. All businesses must have COVID-19 health & safety protocols implemented as required by the Government of Ontario.

Click here to access them! – NOW AVAILABLE IN FRENCH: Cliquez ici!

(Protocols updated May 2021)

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NOTO’s Recommendations to Government

The industry has been faced with several set backs over the last three years. Regular lockdowns, border closure and restrictions, and shortened operating seasons in 2020 and 2021, on-going border restrictions hampering the tourism industry’s recovery in 2022, while also being hit with a significant increase in operating costs and dealing with increased debt loads. NOTO is continuing to take your messages forward to Government to seek support. We will continue to provide updates on our lobbying activities through our newsletters.

NOTO will also continue to share our information and advocacy efforts, and continue working together with our tourism partners like the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO), Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) and the Canadian Federation of Outfitter Associations (CFOA).

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Provincial & Federal Government News Updates

The Canadian Government has announced the end of border restrictions effective Oct. 1st, 2022. Click here to read more. 

NOTE: The Ontario and Federal Governments are regularly updating COVID-19 information, travel information, Minister statements, Government initiatives and statistics on their websites. For additional information from the Ontario or Federal Government, please click on the links below.

Federal Government Ontario Government

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Government Support

Provincial:

  • No COVID-19 programs available at this time.

Federal:

  • No COVID-19 programs available at this time.
Non-COVID Related Funding:
To view a full list of other available programs both Federally and Provincially that you may want to access for non-COVID related initiatives or upgrades, please click on the links below. Note that these webpages are regularly updates as new programs are created and made available. Feel free to bookmark them for future reference.

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Services Restriction Updates

Most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted with exception of long-term care and health care settings. View restrictions by clicking here.

Please note: Local medical officers of health also have the ability to issue Section 22 orders under the Health Protection and Promotion Act to target specific transmission risks in the community. All operators are encouraged to reach out to their local health units to make sure they comply with all regulations and restrictions in their respective districts.

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Borders and Travel Restrictions

Public health and border measures are subject to change with minimal notice. We highly recommend operators and guests stay up-to-date on border measures by regularly visiting the Federal Government’s Website and staying in touch with their local public health unit.

Effective October 1st, 2022, all remaining border measures have been removed. Click here to learn more. 

Other information:

Bait: In other changes, on January 1, 2022 Ontario’s Sustainable Bait Management Strategy came into effect to reduce ecological risks associated with the use and movement of bait in Ontario. CBSA plays an important role in Protecting Canada from invasive species (cbsa-asfc.gc.ca) Accordingly, personal importations of bait at ports in Northern Ontario (Sault Ste. Marie, Pigeon River, Fort Frances and Rainy River) are NOT permitted and will be refused entry.

Importing Boats: Travellers towing or transporting boats at all border crossings in Canada must ensure that boats, trailers, vehicles and water-related equipment are free of Zebra and Quagga mussels before entering Canada. All boats and equipment must be cleared of aquatic plants, animals, mud, debris, and be drained of water and dry. When boats, trailers, vehicles, and conveyances arriving at the border are suspected to be contaminated, enforcement authorities will be notified to inspect and/or decontaminate the equipment. If decontamination is not feasible at time of importation, travellers’ equipment may be held and turned over to provincial authorities for a quarantine period, or refused entry by enforcement authorities and directed to a decontamination station in the U.S. before returning to Canada. Please view paragraphs 23-27 for more information.

Cannabis: Don’t bring it in, Don’t take it out. Click HERE for more information.

Ban on Poultry Products: Travellers should know that, due to a highly pathogenic Avian influenza outbreak, all raw poultry and all poultry products and by-products that are not fully cooked, including eggs and raw pet foods, sourced, processed, or packaged from the restricted zones in the above states are prohibited until further notice. You may not bring these items into Canada. Click here for a list of restricted zones.

Feel free to share this informational video from CBSA with your guests to help your guests prepare: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGE_6DNIpbU

Individuals with questions can reach out to the Border Information Service Line

  • In Canada: 1-800-461-9999
  • Outside Canada: 1-506-636-5064

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Aviation Operations Update from Transport Canada

As the current situation continues to evolve, we recommend operators consult Transport Canada’s website for the latest rules and regulations regarding flight operations. You can access this information by clicking here.

All of the latest transportation updates for aviation, rail, marine and road can be seen here. Operators with any further questions can contact Transportation Canada via e-mail at questions@tc.gc.ca

 

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Cleaning

For additional cleaning guidance and best practices, please view NOTO’s health and safety protocols document. 

PPE Recommendations:

  • Disposable gloves
  • Eye protection (safety glasses)
  • Masks (medical or non-medical grade)
  • Aprons
  • Long sleeve shirts

Cleaning recommendations:

  • Health Canada recommends wet cleaning (damp paper towels, microfiber cloths, mops – wash cloths/mops between each use).
  • Avoid dusting/sweeping surfaces to avoid airborne droplets containing the virus.
  • Only use clean rags and mops with a disinfectant solution prepared in a clean container
  • Wash/clean buckets between uses – do not leave residual solution in the bucket.
  • Remove all visible debris using soap and water then clean surfaces with disinfecting agents.
  • Start with cleaner areas and move to dirtier ones near the end.
  • Follow the instructions on disinfectant labels (solution concentrations, contact time, etc.)
  • Increase air circulation (windows, hepa filtration system).
  • Launder items using hot water – allow items to dry completely.
  • Use garbage/recycling containers without lids or pedals to prevent hands from touching the containers – ensure the containers are lined with bags.
  • Immediately remove work clothes and launder using hot water. Allow clothes to dry completely.

 Cleaners:

  • Use a pre-mixed solution where applicable
  • Read and follow manufacturer’s instructions (how to prepare solution, contact time for proper disinfection)
  • Always wear gloves and other recommended PPE when using products
  • Discard gloves after each cleaning.  If you are using reusable gloves, ID them and dedicate them for cleaning/disinfection of surfaces for COVID-19. Do not use these gloves for any other purposes. Wash hands after removing gloves.


Cleaning Specifics for Various Surfaces:

General: 

  • Routinely clean frequently touched surfaces (tables, countertops, doorknobs, light switches, handles, remotes, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks) with household cleaners and disinfectants that are appropriate for the surface. Ensure you follow label instructions for safe and effective use of cleaning products. Wear disposable gloves while cleaning and disinfecting.

Hard Surfaces: 

  • Clean surfaces using detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
  • For disinfection of hard surfaces, diluted household bleach solutions or alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol should be effective. Never mix bleach with ammonia or any other cleaner. Ensure bleach is suitable for the surface prior to use.

Soft, Porous Surfaces (rugs, carpeted floor, mattresses, pillows drapes):

  • Clean with appropriate cleaners for those fabrics
  • Use mattress, pillow, and couch covers if possible.
  • Launder washable items (covers, rugs – if possible) using the warmest water setting appropriate for the items and dry items completely.

Electronics (telephones, computers, tablets, remote controls, etc.): 

  • Use alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% alcohol.

Vehicles, Aircraft, ATVs, Boats:

  • Clean as required.
  • Follow surface guidelines as stated above.
  • Ensure you regularly clean steering wheels, arm rests, seats, safety handles.
  • Display a sign stating that the vehicle was disinfected.
  • Have hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in vehicles.
 

Cleaning Product Recommendations: 

Health Canada have put together a table of COVID-19 approved disinfectants. These authorized disinfectants may be used against COVID-19 when used according to the label directions. To find out which disinfectant meets Health Canada’s requirements for COVID-19

  1. Locate the Drug Identification Number (DIN) on the disinfectant product label
  2. Look for that number on the Disinfectants for Use Against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) list by typing in the DIN into the search/filter box.

Multi-surface cleaners: Follow the instructions on the cleaning product label. Based on instructions, either use full-strength or diluted according to product recommendations. Apply to the surface until thoroughly wet. Leave on the surface for the designated contact tipe required for disinfection – indicated on back of the label. Wipe with a clean cloth, sponge, or mop.

Bleach solution (5%): Use 5mL of bleach per 250mL of water. Leave on the surface for a minimum of 10 minutes. Allow to air dry. Never mix bleach with any other cleaner or ammonia. Ensure bleach is suitable for the surface prior to use.

Disinfectant wipe and hand sanitizer: For surfaces, pre-clean surface then use a 70% alcohol based wipe to thoroughly wet the surface. Allow the surface to remain wet for 10 seconds and allow to air dry. Ensure hand sanitizer has a minimum 70% alcohol base. Rub hands until dry.

 

Common Cleaners Approved by Health Canada & the CDC: 

  • 3M Surface Disinfectant
  • Bleach
  • Comet Bathroom Cleaner
  • Clorox Cleaners
  • Fantastik Cleaner
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Lysol Cleaners
  • Maquat
  • Purell
  • Scrubbing Bubbles Disinfectant Cleaners
  • Simple Green D Pro 3 Plus
  • Spray Nine (General and Marine Cleaner*)

You can purchase various cleaning products listed above through stores such as Home Hardware, Canadian Tire, Home Depot, Rona, Walmart, etc.

 

PPE and Cleaning Product Suppliers: 

  • Dimension Display – NOTO Preferred Supplier (hygiene stations, hand sanitizer, masks, signage, floor markings, counter guards)
  • The SAM Group – NOTO Preferred Supplier (hand sanitizer, masks, signage)
  • Daquin Sales – NOTO Preferred Supplier (hand sanitizer, masks)

The Government of Ontario also launched a PPE suppliers directory which you can use to find equipment. These cleaning recommendations were created using information from the Government of Canada (Health Canada), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and the Government of Ontario (Public Health Ontario).

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Resources Operators May Find Helpful

We encourage operators to develop plans A, B and C in order to best navigate and prepare for the possible outcomes of this season. Here are are number of resources that we hope you find helpful in your plan development. We are working on other supports and will share those in the coming days and weeks:

  • Destination Northern Ontario – Business Reopening Toolkit: Since the beginning of COVID-19, Northern Ontario has been supporting you and your business when you need it most. We have compiled the below resources to support your business through the next phase of COVID-19. As this is a phased approached, business owners need to be flexible and prepared to close if cases of COVID-19 spike in the future.
  • Candian Center for Occupational Health and Safety: Pandemic Tip Sheets! Each document offers health and safety tips and good practices, for both employers and workers, specific to each industry or sector. Organizations and businesses can adopt this guidance to protect their workers and prevent the spread of infections.
  • The Canadian Business Resilience Network: The Government of Canada and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce established the Canadian Business Resilience Network to help Canadian businesses navigate the COVID-19 reality and prepare for recovery. They are also partnering with Stats Canada on a national survey – goal to measure the impact on business, from a national perspective.
  • Resources from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business: With the emergence of COVID-19, the primary concern at CFIB is keeping you, your employees and your business safe. This page will provide you with expert advice to guide you through this difficult time, as well as templates and policies that prevent viral transmission in the workplace. Topics such as business continuity, how to access financial support, EI and employee income, employee management, business security and health and safety information can be found on this page. CFIB will also continue putting pressure on governments to give your business greater relief—including direct income support.
  • Payroll & COVID-19 From The Canadian Payroll Association: This flyer will help employers complete record of employments (ROEs) for employees who are need to undergo quarantine, were sent home due to the company temporarily closing, layoffs, and other reasons surrounding COVID-19. It also covers various scenarios on how to handle payroll for employees who need to stay home to take care of a sick family member or children, special measures surrounding the work sharing program and other scenarios.
  • Tourism HR Canada: They have gathered some guidance and a series of resources to help all tourism stakeholders stay healthy, communicate clearly, and remain resilient as Canada takes action to slow the spread of the virus and plans for recovery.
  • Federal Government COVID-19 Response and Supports: On this page, you will find all the information on the supports and programs announced by the Federal Government up-to-date for individuals, businesses, and industries.
  • Federal Support Initiatives Through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies: All tourism operators impacted by the sudden shifts in the economy who need pressing assistance could reach out to their local RDAs to receive assistance with accessing federal funding to help you stay in business and provide advice and pathfinding services to other federal programs and services applicable to you.
  • Ontario’s Action Plan: The government’s first steps will make available $10 billion in support for people and businesses through tax credits and deferrals to improve their cash flow, protecting jobs and household budgets, while providing the resources necessary to protect their health. The announcements and supports announced so far can be seen on the link above.
  • BDC – COVID-19 Business Planning Tools: These planning tools and tips can help you map out your next steps, identify new opportunities, mitigate risk and create resilience in your company, so you can emerge strong in recovery. The BDC also put together this summary table of all the supports that have been made available through both the Federal and Provincial Governments and the eligibility criteria.
  • Health Canada and Public Health Agency of Canada’s COVID-19 Awareness Toolkit: This toolkit includes a range of resources and information intended for businesses and organizations, to provide them with the tools they need to help keep individuals safe, healthy and informed. The kit also includes, ready-to-print posters, informational videos, social media content ideas and other links to resources targeted to specific groups of individuals.

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NOTO’s COVID-19 Infographs

NOTO has developed a collection of infographs to help operators to better understand the virus with tips on preventative measures, cleaning protocols and how to prepare their business overall. These infographs were created using information from the World Health Organization (WHO), Government of Canada, and Government of Ontario. Please feel free to share this information with your guests if you feel it would help.

These organizations and Government websites are updated regularly throughout the day. Members who would like to follow the developments of this outbreak are encouraged to visit any of the sources listed above.

COVID-19: Guidance for Businesses & Employees Infograph

COVID-19: Prevention & Disinfection Recommendations Infograph

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NOTO’s COVID-19 Newsletters

Click here to access NOTO’s COVID-19 Newsletter archive.

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Monitoring the Impacts of COVID-19 on the Resource-Based Tourism Industry in Ontario

NOTO has developed a page dedicated to monitoring the impacts of COVID-19 on resource-based tourism in Ontario. This page contains the results of all the surveys conducted by NOTO, Destination Northern Ontario, and TIAO, as well as media interviews featuring NOTO and operators from accross the province.

Click here to access this page. 

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