This is a special update to advise Bruce-area communities of the measures that Ontario Power Generation (OPG) is taking, locally and behond, to help reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus, while maintaining the safe, reliable operations of our generating stations.
OPG is well-prepared, with plans in place to remain in a state of readiness. Measures include:
- Activating an internal infection-disease response team (this occurred in January), which includes medical professionals; heightening the state of alert and surveillance as the crisis developed; and mobilizing the highest-level Crisis Management and Communications Group, now active, to coordinate OPG’s over-all response.
- Encouraging OPG employees to work from home, if they are able to do so without affecting business continuity. OPG staff will still be on the job, running the stations.
- Suspending non-essential travel; and screening employees who are returning from travel to ensure self-isolation for 14 days as required.
- Ceasing all non-essential visitors to OPG workplaces; for example, tours of operations such as the Western Waste Management Facility are being deferred to a later date.
- Implementing protocols for social-distancing, such as holding meetings by phone instead of face-to-face, and postponing non-essential larger gatherings and training.
- Encouraging good personal hygiene by employees, including frequent hand-washing.
- Enhanced workplace cleaning, including in high-traffic areas and surfaces commonly touched such as door handles, faucet taps, lunch tables.
This is an evolving situation. OPG is closely following guidelines provided by health authorities. We are also ensuring alignment and collaboration with the province, regulators, contractors, suppliers and industry peers including Bruce Power. Our priority is to work safely while ensuring that OPG continues to provide Ontario with half its electricity.