(CHRISD.CA FILE)
WINNIPEG — The Manitoba government has set procedures for municipalities to safely fill sandbags in response to flooding during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.
“This spring, we are potentially facing the unique challenge of fighting a high water event while at the same time slowing the spread of COVID-19,” said Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler.
“We are rising to that challenge and have developed a creative and innovative solution to ensure sandbagging will be undertaken while keeping Manitobans safe.?”
The following precautions can be incorporated into sandbag and water-filled barrier procedures:
- Social distancing with a minimum of six feet or two metres,
- Availability of adequate hand-washing and washroom facilities,
- Regular disinfecting of surfaces,
- Alteration to work methods,
- Use of appropriate personal protective equipment,
- Assurance sick workers self-isolate for 14 days, and
- Preparation for a number of workers to be sick at the same time.
The province says it may assign specific duties for regular cleaning of common surfaces, tools and facilities at provincial worksites. A co-ordinated approach with the construction industry, suppliers and consultants is underway to ensure the safety of everyone involved in response efforts.
