A free online townhall next week, jointly run by the Richmond Chamber of Commerce and WorkSafeBC, will tackle challenges that businesses are facing as they re-open in Phase 2 of the COVID-19 pandemic.
A BC Chamber of Commerce survey showed that only 26 per cent of businesses that were impacted by COVID-19 feel they can restart and operate profitably as restrictions ease.
The biggest challenges to restarting businesses were attracting customers or revenue, having enough operating cash and bringing back staff.
Fifty-five per cent of businesses that responded to the survey said it would take about two months to re-open.
“It takes time and money to create the workplace culture and physical changes that can help staff and customers remain healthy and slow the spread,” said Matt Pitcairn, president of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce. “We are hoping this free event with WorkSafeBC will help a number of Richmond employers with their re-opening plans.”
In the townhall on Wednesday, June 17, WorkSafe will help businesses figure out what COVID-19 risks might exist in the workplace, how to control exposure to the virus and how to support employees’ mental health as restrictions ease up.
Despite the launch of Phase 2 of the pandemic and easing of restrictions, there are still many health and safety orders in place to mitigate the spread of the virus. For example, restaurants that have only been allowed takeout options will now be allowed dining in, but at only 50-per-cent capacity and many physical distancing measures in place.
The presenter at the townhall will be Chris Back, director of occupational health and safety at WorkSafeBC.
Other topics that will be covered include what best practices for working from home and resources available to businesses.
There will be an opportunity for participants to ask questions as well.
The event runs from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17.
The townhall is free and open to the public and chamber members, but participants must register in advance.
To register, click here.
