Job-protected time off for British Columbians to get COVID-19 vaccines

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – Workers in B.C. can get their COVID-19 vaccine without fear of losing their job, but employers don’t have to pay for that time off.

Labour Minister Harry Bains says changes have already been made to ensure you can book time off for your shot.

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Under the Employment Standards Act, both part-time and full-time employees are also allowed to take a family member to an immunization appointment.

While people can take the time off work for COVID-19 shots, there is no mention of employers being obliged to pay you for those hours.

You may soon be able to take paid time off to get the #COVID19 vaccine in #BC.

The Employment Standards Act has already been updated to guarantee time off without fear of losing your job, but Labour Minister @HarryBainsSN has not said how much time is allowed.#bcpoli @NEWS1130

— Marcella Bernardo (@MBernardoNews) April 1, 2021

It’s also unclear at this point how much time you will be allowed to book off. However, people voting in an election are given a three-hour window to do so.