B.C. workers now eligible for three hours of paid leave to get COVID-19 immunizations

VICTORIA – Workers in British Columbia can receive up to three hours of paid leave in order to get a COVID-19 vaccination.

A statement from the Ministry of Labour says amendments to the Employment Standards Act are now in effect, retroactive to April 19.

The employer-paid leave covers full-time and part-time workers and the ministry says it ensures no employee will lose pay for taking time off to get vaccinated.

Paid time for vaccinations is now a thing in BC.
Province making amendments to allow 3 hours paid for full or part time staff.#bcpoli #covid19 @NEWS1130 pic.twitter.com/zrD1klJXAw

— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) April 28, 2021

The three-hour leave is part of B.C.’s immunization plan and the statement says it helps make the vaccination process as easy as possible.

The legislation improves on changes enacted April 1 that provide unpaid leave for pandemic-related vaccinations, which could include a worker accompanying a family member for a shot, or if the worker needs more time to get to an assigned vaccination facility.

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Labour Minister Harry Bains says vaccinations keep workers safe and reduce risks to businesses.