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COVID-19 RESOURCES

MHBA COVID-19 Resources for Members:

As the COVID-19 event continues to unfold, the MHBA has set up a dedicated web page, https://www.homebuilders.mb.ca/mhba-covid-19-resource-page/, to ensure you have quick access to important information necessary to help you and your businesses navigate this tumultuous time.

This dedicated page includes links to the MHBA’s COVID-19 updates, plus a variety of health and business resources and will be updated as new information and resources are made available. We will still continue providing updates to you via email as new information becomes available to keep you as informed as possible.

CSAM has also updated its resource page with additional information. You can visit the CSAM page at https://www.constructionsafety.ca/covid-19-and-manitobas-construction-industry/ 

Vaccination Records for Other Jurisdictions

As you know, Manitoba is now offering an immunization card for people who are fully immunized. The Manitoba Immunization Card (digital or physical), includes a person’s name and a QR code. The code shows a person’s immunization status when it is scanned. This is a person’s proof of immunization for non-medical services, including:

  • travel
  • access to sports and entertainment venues
  • restaurants, bars and lounges

For people in the military or visiting from other parts of Canada, alternate forms of identification are also considered valid proof of immunization. This has been updated to include examples of immunization records from other provinces and territories. Visit https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/immunization-record.html for a list of documents considered valid forms of immunization.

Public health orders require businesses and organizations to take reasonable measures to ensure people are providing proof of immunization. Business operators should use the Manitoba Verifier Application to confirm a person’s immunization status, and are strongly encouraged to confirm the individual’s identity against government-issued identification, such as Manitoba driver’s licence and or Canadian passport.

This ensures that the name presented on the immunization card matches the name returned by the Manitoba Immunization Verifier application. To download the app (available on both the Apple Store and Android Play stores) and learn more about the verifier app, visit: https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/immunization-record.html.

Rights and Duties of Employers to Maintain a Workplace Free of COVID-19

As vaccines become available to all and work starts to look a little more normal, we know that MHBA members have questions surrounding asking employees their vaccination status, what employees can reasonably expect as far as COVID-19 preventative measures in the workplace, and other potentially issues in the workplace.

To help provide greater clarity on these issues for our members, the MHBA requested a legal opinion on some of these questions – you can see the brief answers to these FAQs below, and click here for the full opinion.

Q: Does an employer’s duty to maintain a safe and healthy workplace allow it to implement a mandatory workplace vaccination policy and/or mask policy?

Yes, provided that the risk of COVID-19 transmission in the workplace and/or the seriousness of the consequence of such transmission is significant, and employees who are unable to be vaccinated due to a prohibited ground of discrimination are accommodated to the point of undue hardship. Information regarding vaccination status must be held closely. There must not be existing policy and Collective Agreement provisions which prohibit the policy.

Q: Can employers require proof of vaccination from either employees or the public and in that context can an employer ask whether an employee or member of the public has been vaccinated?

Yes, subject to the conditions referenced above an employer may ask an employee to disclose their vaccination status. The right to ask a member of the public of their vaccination status is less clear.

Q: How does the duty of accommodation apply to an employee who refuses to disclose their vaccination status or to be vaccinated or wear a mask?

The duty of accommodation arises once an employee establishes with credible evidence that they have a disability or belong to a group for which a prohibited ground of discrimination exists and which prevents them from disclosing their vaccination status or being vaccinated or wearing a mask. The duty of accommodation extends only to the point of undue hardship and it is not likely that employees will be able to establish that the duty of accommodation applies to a refusal to disclose vaccination status or to wear a mask. In some cases however there will be sufficient reason [e.g. pregnancy] to refuse to be vaccinated.

Q: What recourses are available to employers if an employee who refuses to disclose their vaccination status or to be vaccinated or wear a mask cannot be accommodated without undue hardship?

Alternatives must be considered if an employee establishes that a duty of accommodation applies to them. A case by case approach is necessary but might include allowing the employee to work at home, or at the workplace in a location that is separate from other employees. Once viable alternatives have been exhausted and the employee is made aware that a continued refusal will end in termination of employment that step can be taken. The best approach would be to do this with a separation package and a release if possible.

Q: Do employees have the right to refuse work if some co-workers are not vaccinated?

Probably not; however if an employee expresses concern regarding working with unvaccinated coworkers in the vicinity every reasonable effort must be made to find a solution.

CSAM – Procedures Following an Employee COVID-19 Diagnosis

The health and safety of employees is paramount during COVID-19. Business continuity is a critical concern, but employee wellness remains the most important issue facing employers in these challenging circumstances. For leaders, one question looms larger than all others: what do we do when one of our people tests positive?

CSAM has prepared recommendations to guide construction employers through the necessary steps that follow a positive COVID-19 diagnosis and eventual return to work.

Take a look at the full document HERE.

B2B Manitoba Will Assist Businesses Connect with Personal Protective Equipment

The Manitoba government has partnered with the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, the Manitoba and Winnipeg Chambers of Commerce, and North Forge Technology Exchange to support the development and launch of an online marketplace to connect Manitoba businesses with non-medical grade personal protective equipment (PPE) and other materials needed for businesses to operate.

Here is a LINK to the video that will help you better understand the B2B Manitoba platform.

You can sign up to take part in this marketplace at https://b2bmanitoba.ca/login

To further assist you, here is a TEMPLATE that will help you set up your profile and buy PPE products for sale.

CITY OF WINNIPEG 

A Message from the City of Winnipeg Housing Inspections Team

Dear MHBA members,

With the busy housing construction season coming shortly, here are a few tips to avoid delays and help your inspections go smoothly:

  • Schedule inspections through the Housing Inspections Online Request form (preferred method) found at: https://ppdportal.winnipeg.ca/Permits/InspSched/Housing_RequestForm.jsp
  • Inspections can be scheduled up to 4 weeks in advance – (remember the 24 hours cancellation rule)
  • Have your site supervisors pre-inspect the house prior to the inspector attending, to remediate any last minute details
  • Use the monthly defect reports sent to each builder to ensure the common deficiencies are taken care of
  • Ensure safe access to the dwelling and into the basement via a ramp (see attached inspection advisory)
  • Ensure the city stamped construction drawings are on site along with the roof truss layout and drawings and the floor layout and engineered drawings if applicable
  • If deficiencies are found, use the Defect Certification Program (DCP) through your Permits Online account to expediate the re-inspection process.
  • Remember deadlines for deficiencies – 1 month. If additional time is required to repair the issue, request an extension online at: https://ppdportal.winnipeg.ca/Permits/InspSched/DefectExt_RequestForm.jsp

For final inspections that are occupied, the Alternate Video Inspection (AVI) Program is an excellent alternative for the builder or homeowner: https://winnipeg.ca/ppd/inspections/Residential/AlternateVideoInspections.stm 

City of Winnipeg – Residential Mechanical Photo Submission Program

The Housing Inspections Branch has developed the Residential Mechanical Photo Submission (RMPS) program to provide efficient inspection services to licenced electrical contractors who install air conditioners, gas or electric furnaces, or electric hot water tanks. Only Electrical Residential (ER) permit types are eligible for this program.

The RMPS program allows contractors to submit specific photographs of their installation, along with required documentation, to satisfy the inspection process. To be eligible for this service, you must be an electrical contractor licenced by the City of Winnipeg and have a Permits Online account.

Visit the Residential Mechanical Photo Submission Program webpage for additional information.

City of Winnipeg – Building Permit Extensions

The MHBA has received the following update from the City of Winnipeg regarding building permit extensions:

The City of Winnipeg is committed to supporting homeowners and businesses during this difficult time. If you have recently taken out a building permit, but are experiencing delays getting your project started, you can request a 6 Month Permit Start Extension by completing the online form at: https://ppdportal.winnipeg.ca/Permits/InspSched/DefectExt_RequestForm.jsp

Please provide a brief explanation and length of extension requested (up to 6 months) to reschedule your initial inspection(s). We will waive the requirement for a deposit at this time. However, please note that permits are valid for 3 years from date of issuance, and further extensions will be evaluated and may require payment of a refundable deposit before being approved.

Questions about permits can be directed to [email protected] or by calling the Permits Direct line at 204-986-5140.

City of Winnipeg PP&D – E-Permitting for Residential Building & Trade Permit Applications

The MHBA received the following communique from the City of Winnipeg:

The purpose of this communique is to inform our customers that over the coming weeks, the Division will be testing in real time expanded features of its e-permitting services for all residential building and trade permit applications.

The Division’s long term vision for permitting services includes a full online servicing program, where applicants are able to:

  • Apply online,
  • Pay online,
  • View the status of an application online,
  • Provide additional information online, and
  • Receive their permit and supporting documentation electronically.

Over the past year, the Division has been working hard to put in place internal processes and capacity to support this vision. Two important changes include:

  • The installation of Bluebeam® software to enable the Housing Plan Examination team to review proposed building plans electronically, and
  • The restructuring of the Division’s internal scanning service to provide scanning/uploading of hard copy application materials at the beginning of the application review process (enabling electronic review).

These changes enable the Division to move forward with the delivery of permits and supporting documentation in digital form. In the coming weeks, all new Residential Building and Trade Permits (applied for after November 26, 2018) will be reviewed electronically, with customers receiving their permits and supporting documentation in electronic format.

Please click HERE for more information about this notice.

City of Winnipeg PP&D – Housing Permit Inspection Stats

To view the annual number of housing permits issued, inspections performed, and defects recorded please click HERE

City of Winnipeg – Inspection Availability Times

A reminder to all builders to review inspection availability times as they are posted for all areas of the City.

Effective September 7, 2021, commercial and housing in-person inspections of occupied dwellings will resume and will be subject to COVID-19 pre-screening at time of request and at time of inspection. Alternate and virtual inspections will continue to be offered.

Please click HERE to learn more.

City of Winnipeg – Builder Defect Certification Program (DCP)

The Builder Defect Certification Program (DCP) is limited to re-inspection of deficiencies that have been first identified by PPD Inspectors. These will be communicated to the builder or renovator by email in a Deficiency Notification. Builders and Renovators wishing to participate in this program must first register themselves with PPD.

Please click HERE for more information.

Please click HERE for a copy of the DCP Application Form

A “Step-by-Step Guide” on how to properly submit documents can be viewed HERE

WORKPLACE SAFETY AND HEALTH

What to Expect During Inspections by the Workplace Safety and Health Branch

As an employer, you’re responsible for ensuring the safety and health of workers and others at your workplace. The Workplace Safety and Health Branch (WSH) conducts inspections and investigations to help keep everyone safe, and ensure compliance with the law.

WSH has created a brochure in which explains the following:

  • The role, functions and authority of Safety and Health Officers (SHOs)
  • The actions SHOs can take to ensure the safety and health of workers
  • Your rights and responsibilities during WSH inspections

Click HERE to access the brochure.

For more information, please contact the Workplace Safety and Health Branch

204-957-SAFE (7233)
Toll-free: 1-855-957-SAFE (7233)
manitoba.ca/labour/safety

MB MUNICIPAL RELATIONS

MB Municipal Relations – Message to Contractors Regarding Public Health Orders

As restrictions related to COVID-19 in Manitoba continue, we would like to remind those working in permitting, trades, the construction industry, and homeowners of the importance of following the fundamentals and of limiting close contacts on the worksite, including private residences where construction related work is taking place, to reduce the potential of spreading the virus.

It is essential that everyone on the worksite, including those hiring contractors to perform work in private residences, follow the guidance of Manitoba Health officials and understand that transmission of the virus is possible even when an individual is asymptomatic (not showing signs of illness). All individuals are encouraged to practice frequent hand washing, wear a mask when around members of the public, stay home when sick, minimize the number of people present by limiting work to only those individuals required to perform the required work, and that social distancing measures, remaining a minimum 6 feet apart (2 meters) be followed. We also recommend the staggering of work crews to reduce the number of people on a site at one time.

To help reduce the spread of communicable diseases and viruses, including COVID-19, homeowners who are having work done at their residence, should have a documented infection prevention and control plan in place. More information on how to prevent the spread of the virus can be found through the following links:

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has developed general guidelines and tips about COVID-19 and the construction sector.

To help address concerns about COVID-19, the Canadian Construction Association, the Construction Safety Association of Manitoba (CSAM) and the Winnipeg Construction Association have also created and compiled resources to support the industry.

Thank you for your cooperation in adhering to Manitoba Health guidelines to contain the spread of COVID -19 in Manitoba. All Manitobans have a role to play in slowing down the spread of the virus and minimizing its impact on Manitobans and their communities. Your work to support these efforts is appreciated.

MANITOBA HYDRO

Manitoba Hydro Contact List

Should you have any questions or concerns, please find the list below for the proper MB Hydro Contact:

Energy Services & Services Supervisor (East):

Tim Loeb
Email: [email protected]
204-360-5157 (desk)
204-791-2822 (cell)

Winnipeg Residential Developments & Residential Natural Gas Inquiries:

Justin Morris – West side of the Red River
Email: [email protected]
204-360-3042 (desk)
204-583-6654 (cell)

Stacy Mick – East side of the Red River
Email: [email protected]
204-360-3183 (desk)
204-791-3607 (cell)

Service Pipeline Inspectors:

Services typically take 20-25 business days to run from the chute box from the time the electric meter is up:

Tony Lupinetti – West side of the Red River (typically)
Email: [email protected]
204-795-8037 (cell)

Jeff Johnson – East side of the Red River (typically)
Email: [email protected]
204-360-7476 (desk)

For meter installations inquiries once metro ok is received and 5 business days have elapsed:

Winnipeg Electrical Planner department
[email protected]

CHBA 

National Building Code of Canada – Free Online Access

As of April 2, 2019 the National Research Council, through the Treasury Board Secretariat has made the National Building Code of Canada free to access online. This is a welcome change, as the code has always been a highly restricted document available only in paper for about $1200.

You can now find versions of the National Building Code of Canada, the National Energy Code of Canada, the National Fire Code of Canada and the National Plumbing Code of Canada on the federal government’s website HERE.

They are free to view online, and paper versions are also now available at a much more reasonable price.

Please note: In Manitoba, the Building Code consists of the National Building Code 2010 (not 2015) together with the Manitoba Code Amendments. The Province of Manitoba has not yet adopted the 2015 version of the NBC, so the 2010 version still applies.

CHBA Renovator’s Manual – Pre-Order Today!

Created as a companion text for the Builders’ Manual, the first edition of the CHBA Renovators’ Manual takes a deep dive into applying building science to renovating for a wide variety of circumstances.

Members receive discounted pricing. Pre-order today!

CHBA Builders’ Manual – New Version Available

For those who need to know how to build homes in one of the toughest climates on earth, the CHBA Builders’ Manual is the most authoritative guide you will find for building superior energy-efficient housing. This new edition addresses Net Zero Housing – homes that produce as much energy as they consume each year – and offers over 450 pages of concise information and easy-to-follow illustrations.

Members get access to discounted pricing. Order your copy today: www.chba.ca/buildersmanual. 

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