The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has released a framework for private sector businesses to develop COVID-19 proof-of-vaccination protocols.
The organization, which represents more than 150 Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade in the province, said implementing proof-of-vaccination would help businesses safely reopen and mitigate the risk of further lockdowns.
The guidance issued by the Chamber outlines five principles for businesses as they establish their own vaccination systems, including using the least intrusive manner possible in checking vaccination status and providing accommodation based on human rights.
Several public sector organizations have announced recently that they would require proof of vaccination from employees.
There have also been calls from a number of associations, unions and advocacy groups to implement a provincewide vaccine certification system, particularly in light of the highly contagious Delta variant that's driving a fourth wave of infections.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has so far refused to bring in a provincewide vaccine certificate system.
A spokeswoman for Health Minister Christine Elliott noted Tuesday that the province provides proof-of-vaccination receipts for residents after they get their first and second doses, and said vaccine passports planned by the federal government for international travel could be used domestically by businesses.
Other provinces have announced plans for proof-of-vaccination systems. British Columbia has said its residents will need a vaccine card to get into restaurants, clubs, ticketed sporting events and organized gatherings such as weddings. Quebec, meanwhile, will be requiring proof of both vaccine doses starting September 1 to access non-essential services such as bars and restaurants.
The latest provincial data shows that slightly more than 82% of Ontarians over the age of 12 have received one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and just over 75% have received two.
