CDS/DM Directive for the Resumption of Sustained Activities in a COVID-19 Environment (Fall 2020 Posture) – Amendment 2

References:

1. CDS/DM Directive for the Resumption of Activities, 21 May 2020
2. CDS/DM Directive – DND/CAF COVID-19 (Public Health Measures and Personal Protection), 13 May 2020
3. Guidance on GBA+ and the Resumption of Activities in the Context of COVID-19 (no DTG provided)
4. CANFORGEN 039/20 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update, 3 March 2020 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
5. CANFORGEN 050/20 Voluntary Delay of Releases from the CAF due to COVID-19, 3 April 2020 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
6. CANFORGEN 052/20 Compensation and Leave Entitlements in Relation to COVID-19, 6 April 2020 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
7. CANFORGEN 055/20 Residential Housing Unit Administration in Relation to COVID-19, 24 April 2020 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
8. CANFORGEN 059/20 Reserve Pay, Benefits in Relation to COVID-19, 24 April 2020 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
9. CANFORGEN 063/20 CANSOFCOM Recruiting and Selection in Relation to COVID-19, 6 May 2020 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
10. CANFORGEN 071/20, Direction on Promotions during APS 20 in Response to COVID-19, 27 May 2020 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
11. CANFORGEN 072/20, Relocation Planning in Relation to COVID-19, 28 May 2020 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
12. CANFORGEN 102/20 Leave-Entitlements and Usage in a Pandemic Environment, 23 July 20 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
13. CANFORGEN 115/20 Reimbursement of Miscellaneous Expenses to CAF and Civilian Employees due to COVID-19, 10 September 2020 (Accessible only on the National Defence network.)
14. CDS TASKORD Op LASER 20-01, 2 March 2020
15. FRAGO 001 to CDS TASKORD 001 Op LASER 20-01 01 Ph 3 Activation, 13 March 2020
16. FRAGO 002 to CDS TASKORD 001 Op LASER 20-01 – Ph 3 Activation (Supplementary Direction), 17 March 2020
17. FRAGO 003 to CDS TASKORD 001 Op LASER 20-01 (Supplementary Administrative Direction), 27 March 2020
18. FRAGO 004 to CDS TASKORD 001 Op LASER 20-01, 31 March 2020
19. FRAGO 005 to CDS TASKORD 001 Op LASER 20-01 (Updated Travel Restrictions), 8 April 2020
20. FRAGO 006 to CDS TASKORD 001 Op LASER 20-01 (Additional Direction), 24 April 2020
21. FRAGO 007 to CDS TASKORD 001 – Op LASER 20-01 (Administrative Updates - House Hunting Trips / Imposed Restriction / Dining Halls), 15 May 2020
22. C-87-010-000/ME-000, Assembly Instruction - Non-Medical Face Covering for Use by DND Personnel Only, 14 April 2020
23. CDS/DM Directive – DND/CAF COVID-19 (Public Health Measures and Personal Protection), 13 May 2020
24. CDS/DM Directive for the Resumption of Activities, 21 May 2020
25. CDS TASKORD 004 – CAF Resumption of Activities, 10 June 2020
26. CDS/DM Directive – DND/CAF Risk Mitigation in the COVID-19 Environment, 24 August 2020
27. CDS Planning Directive (Op Laser 20-01) Response to COVID-19 Cluster and/or Resurgence, dated 31 July 2020
54. Advisory COVID-19/Op LASER – Food Services Policy (TBP)
81. FAQ on CANFORGENS issued in relation to COVID-19 online
108. CANFORGEN 147/20 Reimbursement of Miscellaneous Expenses to CAF and Civilian Employees due to COVID-19, 12 November 2020
135. CANFORGEN 147/20 Reimbursement of Miscellaneous Expenses to CAF and Civilian Employees due to COVID-19, 12 November 2020
162. CANFORGEN 153/20 – Use of Special Leave for Quarantine Purposes: OUTCAN Travel
189. CANFORGEN 154/20 –  Amendments to CANFORGEN 152/20 CMP 072/20 201809z Nov 20 Use of Special Leave For Quarantine Purposes: Domestic Travel or Travel to Another Country From Canada

Situation

1. (U) Application
   1. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, numerous directives have been issued to the Defence Team to preserve force health while ensuring our ability to defend Canada and Canadians. As this threat evolves and we adapt to mitigate its impact on teammates, this consolidated directive serves as both a reset and a single point of reference for previous direction that remains extant. The following previously issued orders and directives are hereby replaced and superseded by this directive:
      1. References (refs) L to U; and
      2. Refs W to AA.
   2. This is a directive that applies to all employees of the Department of National Defence (DND) and any persons granted access to Defence Establishments in accordance with the Defence Controlled Access Area Regulations;
   3. This directive is an order that applies to all officers and non-commissioned members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF); and
   4. This directive serves as a guide to Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) resumption of activities in support of CAF priorities.
2. (U) General
   1. International. Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose a serious risk to the well-being of the world’s population and the economic health of nations. At the same time, massive distributed efforts to develop an effective vaccine for COVID-19 are beginning to show promise as human trials progress; and
   2. National. COVID-19 continues to represent an unprecedented threat to the health, social and economic well-being of Canadians and Canadian society. The current national daily case count is an indicator of accelerated epidemic growth and national resurgence. Public Health officials are warning Canadians to ”avoid the 3Cs settings wherever possible; larger clusters tell us that closed spaces with poor ventilation, crowded places where many people gather and close contact situations can amplify spread of the virus.” Despite these challenges, the Defence Team (CAF members and DND employees) must maintain the ability to function safely in a COVID-19 environment and be postured to adapt rapidly to changing and asymmetric public health direction from region to region across Canada.
3. (U) Problem Definition. The principal challenge confronting DND/CAF through the resurgence is the preservation of force health and the operational effectiveness of critical capabilities while most segments of society remain open. At the same time, we are also challenged with ensuring that unambiguous and medically-informed direction is provided to the entirety of the force. This direction must take into account regional differences and the need to ensure that essential force generation, employment, sustainment and management activities can continue as variances across the country permit.
4. (U) Lexicon. The technical medical nature of the COVID-19 crisis has required the use of standardized terminology to ensure a common understanding is used across DND/CAF in the application of direction. The lexicon currently approved for use by the Defence Team is provided at Annex A of this document.
5. (U) Threat Assessment. The greatest threat to DND/CAF is complacency towards the vigilant practice of public health measures (PHMs) and application of the DND/CAF Layered Risk Management Strategy. Accepting that we now live in an environment that will remain altered by COVID-19 for the foreseeable future, it is critical that every member of the Defence Team apply PHMs, including the use of non-medical masks (NMM), and that we set an unimpeachable example at work, at home, and in our communities.
6. A distributed workforce strategy continues to be important to protect Defence Team members against the COVID-19 health threat and preserve our ability to conduct operations. However, it also exposes the DND/CAF to an increased risk of cyber-security threats. Each member of the Defence Team must be vigilant in their use of information technology to avoid allowing DND/CAF information systems and data to be accessed by unauthorized individuals. The DND/CAF Security Guide for Teleworking during the COVID-19 Response is available at: http://admim-smagi.mil.ca/en/security/policies-standards/Security-Guide-for-Teleworking.page. (Accessible only on the National Defence network).
7. The fall/winter months often pose additional mental health challenges due to the reduced access to sunlight and outdoor activities, a trend that is likely to be exacerbated by continued physical isolation. DND/CAF must identify best practices and strategies for the reduction of negative impacts on our personnel. These approaches may require the allocation of additional mental health resources and social services to Defence Team members.
8. (U) CONPLAN LASER Phases
   1. The DND/CAF response to this pandemic follows four phases:
      1. Phase 1 – Pandemic Preparedness;
      2. Phase 2 – Pandemic Alert;
      3. Phase 3 – Pandemic Response (ongoing); and
      4. Phase 4 – Post Pandemic Restoration (on order).
9. (U) Assumptions. The following assumptions are intended to guide planning efforts and are subject to validation as the situation evolves:
   1. Notwithstanding the anticipated resurgence of COVID-19 nationally, there will be reluctance to close schools and businesses prematurely, potentially resulting in higher transmission numbers and rates of infection amongst DND/CAF family members;
   2. Demand for COVID-19 testing will continue to exceed the availability of testing resources for the foreseeable future, thus straining municipal health systems;
   3. The CAF will continue to be called upon to support all echelons of government to respond to natural disasters, national security emergencies and other operational demands while municipal and Provincial/Territorial (P/T) authorities may experience reduced operational capacity during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Defence Team will thus continue to reinforce whole of government partners with planning and liaison as needed;
   4. Op LASER-specific Requests for Assistance (RFAs) from federal and P/T entities will continue to be received for the foreseeable future;
   5. Unmitigated spread of the disease will impact supply chains and the flow of materiel that DND/CAF relies upon. Medical supply chains and the availability of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will remain tenuous for the foreseeable future;
   6. New technologies and digital tools will emerge from this crisis that will offer enhanced dispersed communications, disease surveillance, supply chain visibility and management;
   7. We will continue to rely increasingly on the use of digital tools to communicate to CAF teammates, which will provide opportunities for investment and expose vulnerabilities for attack;
   8. The spread of rumours and conspiracy theories, related to COVID-19, as well as more deliberate misinformation, disinformation, and intensified cyber-attacks will continue as malicious actors seek to sow confusion, mistrust, and politicize the pandemic;
   9. Adversaries will continue to leverage the COVID-19 environment to seek out our vulnerabilities and attempt to exploit them, thus creating pressure on allies to galvanize and deter military aggression;
   10. There may be a need to further reduce access to Defence Establishments should there be a cluster and/or resurgence of cases or new public health restrictions implemented by DND/CAF;
   11. Changes to restrictions will continue to occur gradually and at a different pace based on geography, function, physical space limitations, availability of social infrastructure and individual circumstances;
   12. The COVID-19 pandemic could last an additional 12 months or longer, with virus resurgence occurring to varying degrees before a vaccination and/or approved medications are available;
   13. The human suffering, economic impacts, and food/resource challenges will destabilize individuals, families, organizations and state actors alike, resulting in as-of-yet unforeseen secondary impacts and behaviours within some countries and regions of the world;
   14. CAF education and training facilities and all other components of our institution may operate at reduced capacity, or with increased use of remote and virtual learning tools as the resumption of activities occur;
   15. Regional COVID-19 outbreaks and set-backs will disrupt DND/CAF activities. A distributed and dispersed approach where applicable will mitigate the risks of single points of failure;
   16. CFHSG will not acquire or field a large scale rapid testing capability for COVID-19 in the near term, requiring continued reliance on P/T or contracted processing facilities and disciplined application of PHMs. Our civilian employees will have access to testing mechanisms through Public Health Services;
   17. There will be differing, as well as disproportionate negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on diverse groups of people within Canadian society, and therefore on Defence Team members. This includes the adverse impact of disruption to public programs and social services, particularly on those with dependents (children and adults). Some Defence Team personnel have decided that their dependents will not return to in-person schooling. This will impact the availability of our members to return to their normal place of work; and
   18. Limited quantities of an approved, safe and effective vaccine will be made available to Canadians starting in early 2021. It will be many months beyond initial allocation before a sufficiently large segment of the population can receive the vaccine and establish herd immunity against the virus.
10. (U) Limitations
    1. Constraints
       1. All applicable Treasury Board policies and the Canada Labour Code, Part II will be followed by DND employees. All applicable National Joint Council Directives and collective agreements will be followed by both DND employees and CAF members who supervise DND employees;
       2. DND/CAF will continue to issue the clothing and equipment necessary to Defence Team personnel in accordance with DAOD 2007-1 General Safety Program, and established DND/CAF policy;
       3. Defence Team personnel who use Occupational Health and Safety mandated non-medical PPE in the conduct of their normal duties (non-COVID-19 related) will continue to do so in accordance with existing direction. This directive will augment and not replace those standards;
       4. Specific COVID-19 policy for DND will be developed collaboratively with the National Health and Safety Policy Committee;
       5. Effective communication with Defence Team members is essential to establish an understanding of the impacts and mitigations necessary to return to the workplace and to outline the expectations for their return, the mandatory training required of them, and the PHMs that are in place and with which they will abide. National and local union consultation will need to occur a minimum of 14 days prior to the return of members of the civilian workforce to the workplace;
       6. CAF members will adhere to P/T, regional, municipal and host nation restrictions unless required to do otherwise in the authorized execution of a specific duty. For members serving OUTCAN, direction on public health restrictions will be provided by their regional authorities. Regional authorities, in consultation with their Senior Medical Authorities, may impose more stringent Force Health Protection measures than the ones imposed by the host nation; 
       7. When reporting cases of individuals potentially affected by COVID-19, the necessary precautions will be taken to protect the privacy of CAF members and DND employees through strict adherence to the provisions of the Privacy Act;
       8. In the course of undertaking any Stage 3 or Stage 4 activities that involve a return to the workplace, Regional Joint Task Forces (RJTFs) will communicate that plan to P/T authorities on behalf of the L1(s) within their region, unless this is not operationally possible;
       9. Persons granted access to Defence Establishments, who are not DND employees or CAF members (i.e., third party contractors), must follow the necessary PHMs and wear NMMs as required to meet the standards established in this directive. Necessary equipment will be provided by the person granted access or their employer;
       10. CAF personnel will remain under military command at all times;
       11. CJOC, CANSOFCOM, and NORAD will continue to conduct assigned and ongoing national and international operations. Critical pressures impacting operational continuity will be brought to CDS attention for resolution; and
       12. Materiel, equipment, and real life support planning must extend beyond our internal capacity and consider new access points where our traditional networks are unavailable as a result of the fragility of global supply chains.
    2. Restraints
       1. With the exception of MPC and ADM (S&T), L1s will not procure medical-grade PPE;
       2. DND/CAF shall not procure any supplies, materiel, or equipment for providing health services support to civil authorities, except as directed by the MND;
       3. No Information Operations activities will be executed/authorized during Op LASER or in a domestic operation;
       4. This directive will not apply inside Residential Housing Units (RHU) administered by Canadian Forces Housing Authority unless conducting official DND/CAF business or functions;
       5. Defence Team personnel will not report for duty if they have symptoms of COVID-19. DND employees and CAF members will follow applicable public health guidelines in their municipality and P/T with respect to self-assessment by using the Government of Canada (GC) COVID-19 Self-Assessment tool at https://ca.thrive.health/covid19. Military members will additionally follow direction from their local Health Service Centers on how best to access care; and
       6. Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms will not be granted access to Defence establishments, unless they live on the Defence Establishment, or are present at the Defence Establishment to obtain medical services.

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Mission

11. (U) DND/CAF will continue to provide and support combat-effective, multi-purpose forces to protect Canada and Canadians at home and abroad, while remaining prepared to respond domestically to any COVID-19 resurgence.

Execution

12. (U) Concept of Operations
    1. CDS/DM Intent. The continued resurgence of COVID-19 will challenge leaders at all levels to moderate work based on evolving conditions and the accessibility of social infrastructure across the country. As a priority, we will remain uncompromising in the protection of critical capabilities that are essential to the defence of Canada and protection of Canadians. For these designated force elements, layered risk mitigation protocols will be robust and separate direction will be issued as warranted under the rubric of Op LASER for continuity of operations and the posturing of forces. Concurrently, L1s will be prepared to reactivate business continuity plans and disperse teammates should leaders assess that they cannot conduct non-essential activities without unduly risking DND/CAF teammates or their families;
    2. Guiding Principles. The following principles are intended to guide L1 leader decisions related to the stoppage and resumption of Defence Team activities:
       1. Protection of the health, safety, and wellness of the personnel;
       2. Notwithstanding COVID-19 transmission rates, DND/CAF will ensure unfettered continuity of operations for critical capabilities and services to include designated operational force elements (i.e., SAR, NORAD, SOF IRTF, enhanced readiness forces, expeditionary operations, cyber assurance, etc.), military support and advice to Government, command and control, intelligence, public affairs and communications, financial/legal support to force employment, international relations and support to allies, casualty management, and essential supply chain activities. As rates of infection fluctuate, L1s might need to take extraordinary steps to preserve force health to include sequestration of force elements in extremis as needed;
       3. The COVID-19 situation will vary by region. Commanders are empowered to resume and constrain activities asymmetrically as long as force health is never compromised, DND/CAF PHMs and layered mitigation strategies are applied, appropriate consultation with regional authorities is completed, and mitigation measures are effectively communicated;
       4. Leaders at all levels are to consult CAF health services clinicians and experts to inform the application of layered risk mitigation strategies;
       5. The following factors will inform L1 decisions about the stoppage and resumption of activities:
          1. Health status of Defence Team members which could be adversely affected by COVID-19;
          2. Health status of Defence Team dependents which could be adversely affected by COVID-19;
          3. Presence at home of children under active care of Defence Team members during expected work hours;
          4. Availability of community services and social infrastructure to include day care, the operation of schools, and public transportation;
          5. Availability of internet/telecommunications bandwidth and the ability to access records and files; and
          6. Accessibility of digitally enabling tools and digital devices.
       6. Maintain a focus on wellness, inclusion, and diversity by using Gender-Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) to identify employees’ experiences based on their various identity factors (i.e., age, ethnicity, gender, ability, sexual orientation, etc.);
       7. Monitor the health of all Defence Team members and supporting organizations within the workplace with strict adherence to privacy legislation. All personnel must report immediately if they believe that they have contracted or been exposed to COVID-19 and they must comply with public health directed testing and isolation/quarantine procedures;
       8. Continue to build the resilience and sustainability of DND/CAF by strengthening digital and skill acquisition and leveraging digital infrastructure investments;
       9. Leverage technology and dispersion to avoid large gatherings where physical distancing practices cannot be implemented; and
       10. Judiciously apply layered risk mitigation strategies to formed bodies and individual augmentees before and after deployment, and when an activity must absolutely be conducted that requires the grouping of personnel in close proximity to one another.
    3. Scheme of Manoeuvre. As COVID-19 evolves and the country responds to resurgences of the disease, elements of DND/CAF are likely to move back and forth between stages 2 and 3 for some time:
       1. Stage 1 – Execution of Business Continuity Plans (BCP). These services have been governed by limits on the capacity to execute work remotely and the imperative to stay at home to stay healthy while measures to protect the team have developed and evolved. It has included the conduct of planning for the resumption of activities as conditions permit and the preparation of workplaces for the eventual return to them;
       2. Stage 2 – Work in an Active COVID-19 Threat Environment. This stage prioritizes additional remote work while workplaces are prepared for the eventual return to the workplace, resources are procured, and control measures are developed and implemented to allow for the controlled resumption of critical activities in the workplace at Stage 3, while also setting conditions for optimized activities in a latent COVID-19 environment;
          1. Workplace preventive/control measures are established to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19:
             1. Work from home (WFH) practices will remain available to facilitate physical distancing and protection of the workforce. While in the workplace, leaders and managers will continue to rigorously enforce personnel following PHMs and Layered Risk Mitigation Strategies. Direction on PHMs, personal protection, Layered Risk Mitigation Strategies and contact tracing are summarized in Annexes B and C;
             2. All personnel that return to their workplace fully understand the PHMs that they must practice at all times including physical distancing, cough etiquette, frequent hand washing, and routine cleaning with an emphasis on high touch areas such as door knobs, light switches and horizontal surfaces;
             3. Adequate stocks of non-medical masks (NMMs) and PPE have been distributed by respective L1s and made readily available to the Defence Team returning to their workplace;
             4. All personnel that return to the workplace are trained on the use of NMMs/PPE, have completed the Defence Learning Network (DLN) on-line training and that training has been reported/tracked;
             5. All personnel have proper onboarding, whether virtual or otherwise. This should include re-onboarding for returning staff from remote work to the workplace; and
             6. When PHMs, such as physical distancing, cannot be respected by virtue of the activity (i.e., deployment of ship’s crews, essential training, etc.) leaders will ensure NMMs/PPE protocols are addressed and/or sequestration is applied.
          2. Ensure adequate workforce is available with careful consideration for members who have a greater likelihood of severe illness if COVID-19 is contracted or who will experience unique challenges at home if some form of accommodation is not granted;
          3. Mechanisms for reporting COVID-19 test results and positive cases on the strategic common operating picture are established; and
          4. Under the guidance of the Surgeon General, Bases Wings and the Canadian Forces Support Group (Ottawa-Gatineau) (CFSG (O-G)) will have established contact tracing regimes in line with those of their P/T health authorities to investigate disease outbreak amongst members and implement quarantine as needed.
       3. Stage 3 – Additional Training and Institutional Activities. Most DND/CAF L1s are in stage 3 currently. Reversion to stage 2 is possible should conditions deteriorate as a result of a COVID-19 resurgence. While remote work largely continues, only those activities that are necessary to stop the immediate erosion of CAF readiness (individual training, collective training in support of deployed operations and high readiness contingency forces) and critical supporting and institutional activities that are aligned with established priorities are being undertaken. Conditions necessary to permit the undertaking of Stage 3 activities include:
          1. Either sufficient public health capacity is in place to test, trace, isolate, and control the spread of the virus or, in its absence, protocols can be developed and adopted to ensure members are not a threat vector or do not get exposed to a threat vector;
          2. P/T retain medical capacity to handle illness and where members will not inadvertently strain health systems; and
          3. COVID-19 transmission within the community is controlled or, if not, quarantine of CAF members and activities is conducted to avoid being a threat vector to the communities where we operate.
       4. Stage 4 – Operations and Activities in a Latent COVID-19 Environment. In this stage, we will no longer be responding to the pandemic but we will not return to a pre-COVID-19 posture. Remote work will continue and workplace occupancy rates will likely remain below pre-COVID-19 rates. As a rule, our posture in the workplace will generally reflect that of the wider Public Service within similar facilities. This stage will be defined by the achievement of a new steady state in which the latent threat of COVID-19 persists but an ability to detect and react decisively to outbreaks exists.
    4. Main Effort. The protection of force health and continuity of operations essential to defending Canada and Canadians, while simultaneously maintaining our ability to support GC responses to unforeseen emergencies;
    5. Priorities. The following priorities are not listed in order of importance nor do they preclude the execution of those critical or core L1 activities not contained within the list. The intent of these priorities is to make clear where the weight of effort will be applied when there is a synchronization or capacity conflict:
       1. Enabling Priorities
          1. Further develop and refine PHM requirements and implement them;
          2. Procure and implement CAF COVID-19 independent testing capabilities, refine and implement CAF contact tracing, and other protocols that further protect the DND/CAF going forward;
          3. As is possible, continue individual and collective training in support of deployed operations and high readiness contingency forces;
          4. Execute priority activities within the Defence and Security Science and Technology program;
          5. Identify and implement additional capacity and processes for remote work;
          6. Expand Defence Supply Chain operations to support all CAF fleets, and to include the procurement of additional stocks of personal protective equipment (PPE);
          7. Continue to execute all aspects of the intelligence function;
          8. Execute the Equipment Support Program to prepare CAF key fleets for force generation; and
          9. Continue medium-term planning and assessment of the way forward for SSE.
       2. DND/CAF Priorities (Outputs)
          1. Continued performance of activities mandated by legislation, regulation or court order, and compliance with prescribed deadlines;
          2. Execute all obligatory activities in compliance with ongoing litigation;
          3. Remain responsive to the evolving GC agenda, and Cabinet, Parliamentary, and Senate committees and processes;
          4. Increase financial management activities to capture COVID-19 expenditure impacts and ensure sufficient cash flow throughout the business resumption period;
          5. Resumed FG training in support of deployed operations and high readiness contingency forces;
          6. Conduct collective training critical to the conduct of deployed operations and high readiness contingency forces; and
          7. Execute ongoing domestic and international operations.
    6. End State. DND/CAF are trained, equipped and enabled to work and operate in a COVID-19 environment.
13. (U) Tasks
    1. Common to all L1s/FGs
       1. Refresh BCPs;
       2. Continually assess the status of resumption efforts by region, and be prepared to constrain activities as needed;
       3. CAF L1s are to be prepared to (BPT) generate forces in support of GC efforts to contain, delay and mitigate the effects of COVID-19. On order, surge liaison and planning capacity into other government departments and agencies (OGDAs) at federal and P/T echelons to inform whole of government collaborative planning;
       4. CAF L1s are to BPT assign forces as required to Comd CJOC in support of Op LASER to enable pandemic response operations;
       5. CAF L1s are to BPT employ PRes on Class C terms of service in support of Op LASER taskings;
       6. Depending on the transmission of the virus domestically, be prepared - on order – to sequester critical capabilities and a 24/7 watch at all echelons of command in a clean and restricted environment;
       7. Respond to CJOC and SJS reporting requirements. Ensure representation at SJS standing DND/CAF SOPG;
       8. Consult internal health service advisors regarding health threats, travel, precautions, layered risk mitigation measures and other health matters related to COVID-19;
       9. Direct any federal/P/T Op LASER-related Requests for Assistance to SJS Current Operations - Western Hemisphere/Asia Pacific;
       10. Resume directed activities and operations, while protecting teammates through the use of PHMs and layered risk mitigation strategies;
       11. Identify and report on any consolidated PPE and NMM requirements for all Defence Establishments for which you provide materiel support;
       12. Issue PPE and NMMs to Defence Team personnel at Defence Establishments to which you provide materiel support IAW established priorities, including lodger units and formations;
       13. Ensure all managers of civilian employees complete the Canadian School of Public Service training module on how to establish effective virtual teams (course code X175);
       14. To the maximum extant, maintain physical distancing through the use of VTCs and teleconferencing, and by reducing attendance to the number of essential personnel who can safely be accommodated in the meeting room. Essential personnel and functions are as identified by FG/L1s in BRPs;
       15. To prevent outbreak in our key entry level training institutions where recruit and officer production could be at risk (i.e., military colleges, CFLRS, CAF Schools), students involved in entry level training will be confined to base;
       16. Adhere to direction at ref BB and any subsequent amendments with respect to CAF Food Services (Food Svcs) facilities and contracted locations;
       17. In coordination with CFMWS, continue to develop plans for the resumption of morale and welfare services such as messes and recreational facilities for fitness training/testing;
       18. Strongly encourage all members of the Defence Team to obtain an influenza vaccine unless medically unable. The circulation of influenza in Canadian society generally occurs in the fall/winter timeframe. It will be especially important to avoid contracting the flu this year to reduce the pressure on the Canadian health care system, to maintain the overall health of the Defence Team, and ensure the CAF has the personnel resources necessary to respond to any emergency tasks;
       19. Whenever operationally possible, the chain of command (CoC) will support members’ voluntary participation in COVID-19 related studies (i.e., plasma collection) that have been endorsed by the Surgeon General;
       20. Consolidate and share operational and tactical level lessons learned, with specific focus on observations related to BCP, the application of PHMs, use of digital tools for C2, activation protocols, and preparation for COVID-19 specific employment (e.g., long term care facilities);
       21. Continue to keep CAF members and their families apprised of developments related to the pandemic and implications to CAF posture;
       22. Leverage and promote national-level communications tools and resources through L1/Command channels to ensure consistent and impacts at every level while avoiding duplication;
       23. Strongly encourage all members of the Defence Team to download and use ‘COVID Alert,’ the GC’s free exposure notification app that is intended to help break the cycle of infection;
       24. Continue to optimize the use of digital tools to enhance communication and streamline staffing processes in a dispersed working environment;
       25. Tailor and refine L1 total wellness initiatives aimed at building the readiness, resilience and growth potential of teammates;
       26. Ensure that GBA+ as it relates to COVID-19 impacts on Canadians, and in particular, Defence Team members, informs the gradual resumption of activities and remote work arrangements. GBA+ and preliminary lessons learned from the COVID-19 crisis will also inform the identification of potential new measures or policies to mitigate medium to longer term risks/negative impacts on operations and the careers of particular groups in DND/CAF. Gender Advisors (GENADs), Gender Focal Points (GFPs), the Directorate for Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (DGDI) and the Directorate for Integration Gender Perspectives (DIGP) can provide expert support and guidance;
       27. Ensure Real Property (infrastructure) considerations are incorporated into planning processes for implementation of L1 capabilities;
       28. BPT support visiting foreign troops within Defence Establishment which could include accommodation and, if necessary, quarantine;
       29. Coordinate communications with ADM (PA) and adhere to public affairs guidance to facilitate the alignment and synchronization required in the GC and DND/CAF response to this national crisis;
       30. Understand and adhere to the full spectrum of PHMs outlined in Annex B including updated direction on wearing NMMs in enclosed areas and 3-layered NMMs;
       31. Implement Layered Risk Mitigation Strategies, in accordance with Annexes B and C, for all operations and activities;
       32. Report monthly COVID-19 operational testing requirements through local SMAs to CFHSG. Requests should be sent from local commanders to their local SMA who will then send the requests to CFHSG via: ++Testing Coordination Cell - Cellule Dépistage@CMP DHSO@Ottawa-Hull (Accessible only on the National Defence network) or TestingCoordinationCell-CelluleDepistage@forces.gc.ca Requests should be sent using the form at Annex D. L1s, in consultation with medical advisors and legal advisors (where required – due to the complex legal issues surrounding the ordering of testing for civilians), should consider the following factors when assigning forces and ordering operational testing:
           1. An individual or group’s importance to the mission and their vulnerability to COVID-19 outbreak;
           2. The availability of other risk mitigation measures; and
           3. Testing availability.
       33. Regularly consult CFHSG advisors and respective Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) officers regarding the level of COVID-19 circulating in the community and appropriate risk reduction measures to implement.
    2. VCDS – Office of Primary Interest (BRP)
       1. As the DND/CAF OHS Functional Authority (FA), refresh COVID-19 specific PHM, PPE, and NMM guidance to the Defence Team as needed in coordination with the CAF Surgeon General;
       2. As the FA, coordinate the implementation of CAF Surgeon General recommended PHM standards, doctrine, techniques and procedures, to include the use, care and disposal of PPE and NMM;
       3. Analyze disaggregated data on PPE and NMM anthropometric, fit, or function deficiencies to inform OHS policies;
       4. To protect the health and safety of employees, D Safe G, in partnership with ADM (DIA), will contribute civilian workforce data to a registry of COVID-19 cases and other workforce capacity elements. The necessary precautions will be taken to protect the privacy of employees through strict access and authentications protocols as in place for similar systems such as HRMS;
       5. D Safe G and CFHSG, in consultation with ADM (HR Civ), will jointly maintain a Question and Answer (Q&A) bank to be used by all L1s in their communication strategy;
       6. Maintain and, if necessary, update the Occupational Health and Safety for Business Resumption Planning at ref FF;
       7. Coordinate the development of the strategic occupational health and safety conditions for business resumption planning with employer and employee representatives in support of L1 business resumption activities;
       8. Review and develop new post-pandemic Defence Security protocols which includes updates to, and optimization of, the business continuity management (BCM) program and critical services assurance protocols;
       9. Support L1 HQs, through the services provided by CFSG (O-G), for the re-opening of National Capital Region establishments;
       10. In collaboration with the SJS, oversee the re-balancing of the executive footprint in the NCR. Resource SJS to staff and operate strategic situation centres at Carling and Pearkes simultaneously; and
       11. Maintain awareness of COVID-19 related impacts on OUTCAN personnel and their families, and moderate their posture as required.
    3. CJOC – Op LASER Supported Commander
       1. As required, be prepared to provide advice to the CDS regarding potential changes to CAF posture on operations, at home and abroad;
       2. Identify critical capabilities and provide advice on adjustments to force posture to ensure protection of the force and CAF operations. This could include recommendations to sequester critical force elements;
       3. Monitor the global COVID-19 situation and provide situational awareness to the CAF, including advice to the FGs regarding force protection measures, training events and exercises;
       4. When authorized, conduct Phase 3 pandemic response operations in support of the GC response;
       5. Maintain reporting mechanisms on COVID-19 impacts including number of possible and known cases of COVID-19 for members assigned to Op LASER;
       6. On order, BPT coordinate CAF support requests from all levels of government;
       7. Report daily on the force health of assigned forces and implications of illness on COVID-19 and natural disaster response operations;
       8. BPT conduct tasks as directed by the CDS through Op LASER direction. Specific contingency plans are to be maintained for:
          1. The sequestration of critical capabilities and essential force elements;
          2. Public service support to Indigenous, Northern and Remote communities to include the delivery of supplies, logistical support, and limited health care support;
          3. Assistance to Federal and Provincial Law Enforcement Agencies;
          4. Public service support (and potentially ALEA) to reinforce quarantine operations centered on Canadian cities, to potentially include in extremis augmentation of security services upon receiving a formal request for assistance;
          5. Identification of critical infrastructure and potential airheads near Canada’s Northern and Remote communities, and develop contingency plans to facilitate logistics and limited health care support to these areas;
          6. Tuned to potential points of failure across the country, develop plans for evolving contingencies such as CAF support to long-term care, municipal/provincial health services, municipal/provincial testing sites, etc.; and
          7. Concurrent public service support to P/T at greatest risk of floods, fires, blizzards and other events assuming a reduced capacity on the part of regions and municipalities to leverage integral emergency management services.
       9. With the endorsement of P/Ts, and on order, employ Canadian Rangers in support of community leaders, and P/T COVID-19 awareness programs. These members will also help illuminate potential emerging demands of the communities in which they operate;
       10. BPT employ multiple force elements locally, which will respond to local small-scale requirements;
       11. Inform strategic level understanding and knowledge through regional/P/T atmospherics of RJTFs regional partners;
       12. Lead analysis on military response options as requests for CAF assistance materialize;
       13. Assess and identify to Strat J4 the critical fleets and equipment platforms that will be vital to our operational success so that ADM (Mat) can monitor and report on the integrity of the supply chains that underpin these capabilities;
       14. Coordinate with the L1s regarding assigned CAF host liaison personnel and BPT provide DIRLAUTH with RJTF designated P/T or municipal interlocutors in support of the CAF exercise and participating foreign forces; and
       15. Collaborate with the SJS and CAF FGs to determine potential PRes Class C requirements for ongoing CAF support to the GC COVID-19 Response.
    4. SJS
       1. Remain engaged at the federal echelon with Whole-of- Government emergency management stakeholders to ensure GC and DND/CAF planning remains aligned, equitable and responsive;
       2. Lead and maintain DND/CAF COVID-19 standing SOPG at Director-DG level until otherwise directed to:
          1. Facilitate the promulgation of direction;
          2. Promote coherence of effort across DND/CAF L1s; and
          3. Act as a clearing house for best practices.
       3. Ensure CAF strategic planning and liaison elements are integrated with other government departments, interdepartmental task forces and with partner agencies as necessary to ensure DND/CAF effects are understood;
       4. Continue to serve as the CAF point of entry for Op LASER-related RFAs. Act as the DND/CAF lead to consolidate potential requests from external entities for DND/CAF support that require CDS decision;
       5. Seek appropriate authorities for the provision of health care services to non-CAF personnel when emergency RFAs are anticipated;
       6. Collaborate with ADM (Mat) to identify and address supply chain vulnerabilities and deficiencies. Act as the CAF representative on interdepartmental task force on supply chain resilience;
       7. Validate L1 COVID-19 related requirements and optimize procurement, production, sustainment and replenishment of non-medical PPE and NMMs in close coordination with CJOC and ADM (Mat);
       8. Develop a mechanism to calculate consumption rates for COVID-19 related non-medical PPE and NMMs that will inform future procurement and warehousing requirements;
       9. Provide COVID-19 related non-medical PPE and NMM priorities and apportionment in consultation with CJOC and L1s;
       10. Work with MPC/Surgeon General, CJOC and other L1s to normalize COVID-19 related PPE supply chain and replenishment activities;
       11. Collaborate with CJOC and ADM (PA) to refine strategic communications, so as to keep CAF members, their families and Canadians informed;
       12. As required, adjudicate/de-conflict any competing priorities with regard to operational testing;
       13. Recommend adjustments to the CDS/DM priority system for operational testing as required as new or precise priorities emerge and testing capacity evolves;
       14. Coordinate with L1s and the Surgeon General to develop a COVID-19 vaccination prioritization and subsequent delivery plan;
       15. Continue to collate strategic-level lessons learned and coordinate information sharing with allies and partner; and
       16. In consultation with CJOC and VCDS, examine the requirements for, and develop a scale of issue and holdings of, PPE for DND/CAF to operate in a pandemic environment within an operational, institutional and corporate context.
    5. MPC
       1. Maintain situational awareness of national and regional trends in COVID-19 transmission and impacts. Advise the CoC of indications for likely recommendations from public health officials to increase the use of restrictive PHMs;
       2. Maintain a COVID-19 Fusion Centre to track COVID-19 and health care capacity within the CAF and the communities in which they serve;
       3. Identify those COVID-19 related studies that have been endorsed by the Surgeon General and promote CAF members’ voluntary participation in such studies;
       4. Monitor and report on force health;
       5. Continue to provide PHM and PPE advice to shape strategic direction;
       6. In coordination with ADM(Mat), update ref V to reflect current public health authorities’ recommendations for the use of 3-layer NMMs;
       7. Act as the sole authority for defining requirements for medical-grade PPE with bulk procurement being coordinated with ADM (Mat);
       8. Control and distribute medical grade PPE for all HSS tasks;
       9. BPT redistribute medical equipment, supplies and personnel among Health Service units;
       10. Obtain and operationalize GC-approved DND/CAF COVID-19 independent testing capabilities;
       11. Establish and communicate CAF integral COVID-19 operational testing solutions;
       12. Act as Technical Authority for all procurement of COVID-19 testing capability as well as contracting for testing services;
       13. Provide training on contact tracing protocols that can be applied at Wings, Bases, the NCR, and other facilities;
       14. Review and validate all L1 COVID-19 related PPE and PHM policies and guidance for DND/CAF consistency and adherence to medical standards;
       15. Refine total health and wellness strategies in a COVID-19 environment, striving for more resilient and growth-oriented mindsets;
       16. Conduct an analysis of employability within a variety of COVID-19 environments and produce guidance in the form of COVID-19-specific medical employment limitations;
       17. BPT provide ready access to SME advice on strategic level policies regarding compensation and benefits;
       18. Reconstitute holdings of medical grade PPE based on the need to:
           1. Operate domestic medical/dental clinics and all expeditionary operations at scale and for sustained operations;
           2. Surge up to 1500 CAF members for high-intensity domestic operations in a COVID-19 environment for 30/60/90 days; and
           3. Surge up to 24,000 CAF members for medium-intensity domestic operations requiring limited PPE in a COVID-19 environment for 30/60/90 days.
       19. BPT generate CFHSG support for Op LASER tasks;
       20. BPT re-activate teams to oversee the training of augmented civilian care (ACC) shifts for long-term care facilities;
       21. Continue to update and disseminate Force Health Protection advisories along with other situational awareness products pertaining to COVID-19;
       22. Maintain close liaison and coordination with our civilian and allied health care partners;
       23. Through CFHSG provide ongoing advice to L1s to help them understand and mitigate COVID-19 risks. Develop medically informed regression considerations to provide advice to L1s as clusters and resurgences materialize;
       24. In collaboration with PHAC initiate consultations with P/T health authorities regarding the licensing requirements for regulated healthcare professionals (i.e., physicians and nurses) who may be required to provide services outside the province in which they are licenced to practice; and
       25. Ensure all necessary precautions are taken to protect the privacy of individuals through strict adherence to the applicable provisions of the Privacy Act with respect to the collection, storage, use and sharing of personal information related to COVID-19 testing and contact tracing.
    6. CFINTCOM
       1. Continue to monitor international events and threats with an eye on emerging post pandemic second order and geopolitical effects;
       2. Analyze and report on COVID-19 threats and epidemic trends; and
       3. Work with the Privy Council Office (PCO) and other intelligence organizations to explore the feasibility of establishing a joint intelligence fusion team to better harmonize COVID-19 specific requirements.
    7. RCN
       1. BPT to produce PPE and NMM in support of the national production strategy; and
       2. Provide liaison and support to visiting foreign maritime elements, including those briefly docking for fuel and maintenance activities.
    8. CA
       1. BPT to produce PPE and NMM in support of the national production strategy; and
       2. Consider with Indigenous partners how Canadian Rangers can best support their communities in protecting against potential COVID-19 clusters, resurgences and waves. 
    9. RCAF
       1. Continue to implement a risk-based decision framework regarding planned RCAF support to all air displays/air shows, fly pasts, military ceremonial flybys and static displays, including those planned on RCAF Wings. This framework shall balance safety requirements in an assumed COVID-19 environment, while also preserving public confidence through opportunities to showcase RCAF missions and capabilities. Comd RCAF will manage this on behalf of the CDS while providing routine staff updates to SJS regarding the viability of RCAF support to these key events;
       2. BPT support the movement of personnel and equipment;
       3. BPT produce PPE and NMM in support of the national production strategy;
       4. BPT to assist Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and PHAC with the return of Canadians abroad;
       5. Provide liaison and support to visiting foreign air elements, including those briefly touching down on Canadian soil for fuel and maintenance activities; and
       6. BPT assist with movement of visiting foreign troops in the event commercial or foreign nation airlift may not be available.
    10. ADM (Pol)
        1. Remain engaged with GC stakeholders, such the Privy Council Office, Public Safety, and Global Affairs Canada, as well as SJS, to ensure GC and DND/CAF planning remain aligned, equitable and responsive; 
        2. Assess and report on allied perspectives; and
        3. Continue as primary interlocutor for RFA development and support the preparation of advice to the MND in response to RFAs.
    11. ADM (IE)
        1. Ensure all infrastructure is maintained and ready for the partial and full resumption of activities;
        2. BPT assist L1/FGs with the containing of visiting foreign troops to within DND/CAF infrastructure, which could include accommodations;
        3. Support Base/Wing Commanders’ analysis of and responses to requests for non-Defence uses of Defence Establishments, including leases. At this time, access to Defence Establishments for visitors remains restricted and all requests for use of facilities will be reviewed by L1s on a case-by-case basis. The gradual lifting of such restrictions will likely be dependent on confirmation that such access supports local community health guidelines. Before the overall restriction is lifted for any regional facilities, local CAF leaders must be provided confirmation that community transmission of COVID-19 is under control within the region and that appropriate physical distancing and PHMs can be established to greatly reduce the risk of creating a vector for community transmission. Agreements with non-Defence elements for the use of Defence Establishments will include language acknowledging that the CAF may close the facility or terminate the agreement if DND/CAF judges that community transmission poses additional risks;
        4. In support of L1 operations, and CFHSG and DSafeG guidance, prioritize the adaptations that may be essential to optimize facilities to continue to support CAF operations in a latent COVID-19 environment;
        5. Track and report on operational impacts and costs to RP assets resulting from operating within Phase 3 pandemic response; and
        6. Report financial impacts caused by the gradual or sudden resumption/restoration of maintenance and routine activities.
    12. ADM (HR Civ)
        1. Sustain consultation with national unions on the implementation of resumption activities as it pertains to DND;
        2. Remain engaged with the Office of the Chief Human Resources Officer (OCHRO) to ensure civilian personnel policies during transition are communicated and reflective of Federal Public Service business resumption considerations;
        3. Sustain ongoing staffing/hiring activities, prioritizing critical actions as required;
        4. In consultation with DSafeG, provide guidance to managers across the DND/CAF establishing the use of NMMs as an expected behaviour in the workplace; and
        5. Provide guidance on management of those civilian members who are unable to return to the workplace, as they have been declared medically vulnerable, or who have someone medically vulnerable at home.
    13. ADM (DIA)
        1. Maintain and enforce data governance associated with the monitoring and reporting of COVID-19 and other workforce capacity elements on the civilian workforce; and
        2. Work in partnership with VCDS/D Safe G to develop and maintain civilian tracking of COVID-19 cases and other workforce capacity elements, including appropriate privacy and security controls.
    14. ADM (Fin) / CFO
        1. Capture all costs related to operations and functions undertaken during the DND/CAF response to COVID- 19;
        2. Provide financial estimates with regards to the resumption of corporate, institutional and operational activities;
        3. Assess out-year fiscal implications of deferred training, maintenance, contracting, acquisition, etc;
        4. Introduce additional comptrollership functions as needed; and
        5. Consider financial implications of the designation of Op LASER as a Special Duty Operation, as well as introduction of hazard and risk pay for specific assignments.
    15. ADM (Mat)
        1. In coordination with CF H Svcs Gp/DHSO, update ref V to reflect current public health authorities’ recommendations for the use of 3-layer NMMs;
        2. Work with Strategic J4 SJS to optimize holdings of NMM and medical grade PPE;
        3. Act as procurement authority for non-medical PPE, medical PPE (for CFHSG), and NMMs in support of L1s for any ADM (Mat) managed bulk buys and/or controlled items;
        4. BPT produce PPE and NMM in support of the national production strategy;
        5. Procure PPE and NMMs via contract arrangements as directed by the SJS;
        6. Procure COVID-19 testing resources as recommended by Surgeon General; and
        7. Establish a PPE and NMM Ops Stock.
    16. ADM (IM)
        1. Continue to increase IT/IM solutions to enable remote work up to Protected B and provide reliable access to systems of record;
        2. Be prepared to further expand and reinforce T-DVPNI capability should greater demands and capacity across DND/CAF become apparent;
        3. Develop optimized IT/IM solutions for personnel working from home; and
        4. Maintain and update functional direction on cyber hygiene to mitigate vulnerabilities and strengthen information security on DND/CAF networks.
    17. ADM (DRDC). Continue to support the DND/CAF COVID-19 operational and medical response;
    18. ADM (RS). Execute an ongoing audit of resource expenditures related to COVID-19 and other relevant audits as required;
    19. ADM (PA)
        1. Provide strategic level communication guidance and messaging consistent with GC direction;
        2. Assist with the coordination of the Departmental responses to media queries;
        3. Work with ADM (HR-Civ) and MPC to manage an employee engagement plan and toolkit that includes resources accessible to CAF members and DND employees and an evergreen repository of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs at ref CC), the answers for which will be coordinated through functional authorities;
        4. Collaborate with SJS and CJOC to refine strategic communications plans to keep Defence Team members, their families and Canadians informed throughout the COVID-19 health crisis; and
        5. Continue to assign PA liaison to SJS.
    20. Corp Sec
        1. In conjunction with the Military Assistants, continue to support the ongoing interface between the MND and DND/CAF;
        2. In conjunction with stakeholders, develop and maintain records of decision-making approaches applied in the COVID-19 response;
        3. Examine the evolution of governance through Stages 1 to 4 and continue to adapt governance approaches and key events to facilitate senior leadership decision-making; and
        4. Continue to facilitate the early and ongoing application of GBA+ principles in business resumption planning.
14. (U) Coordinating Instructions
    1. Transition Authorities. Authority to move between stages rests with L1s, which may be delegated when necessary due to differences in regional/intra-regional circumstances. As required, decisions will be fulsomely discussed at various governance bodies to ensure de-confliction/risk mitigation between L1s where the desire to undertake activities necessitates support from enabling entitles (i.e., industry, civilian support, maintenance, etc.). Likewise, comprehensive coordination is required for activities on Bases/Wings/CFSG(O-G) with multiple L1 Lodger Units, with the Base/Wing/CFSG(O-G) parent L1 retaining overall coordination authority;
    2. Individual Medical Concerns. All officers and non-commissioned members of the CAF, DND employees, and any persons granted access to Defence Establishments, concerned that their medical conditions might place them at increased risk of complications from COVID-19, should speak with their health care provider to assign appropriate medical employment limitations prior to a return to their workplace. Medical conditions that may increase the risk of complications from COVID-19 include, but are not limited to, cardiovascular, respiratory, diabetes, obesity, immune deficiencies, and medications that may affect the immune response;
    3. Priority Information Requirements
       1. Incidents of outbreaks or resurgence in the immediate locale of Defence Establishments or amongst members of the Defence Team;
       2. Any refusals to work where it cannot be resolved internally to an L1;
       3. Any network wide degradation of capacity to work remotely for a period that extends beyond four hours. This includes disruption of telecommunications, networks and remote accessibility of SharePoint, network drives, systems of record, and critical operating systems for the management of personnel and projects;
       4. Supply chain or Defence industry disruptions with the potential to affect activities and operations;
       5. Allied/partner nation and host nation outbreak clusters threatening deployed CAF members;
       6. OUTCAN host nation actions/inactions or access to medical facilities that could be hazardous to OUTCAN members;
       7. Any P/T or remote/northern communities threatened by supply chain challenges, staff shortages, equipment deficiencies and/or capacity to support the population, including CAF members and their families;
       8. Any changes to local, municipal, P/T restrictions that prevent the CAF from completing its assigned tasks, from generating forces, or from supporting forces;
       9. Any F/P/T emergency management agencies at risk by virtue of COVID-19 related causes;
       10. Communities that are directly threatened by weather events, or are at risk of being cut off/isolated due to weather events and/or disruption of sea, air and land lines of communication;
       11. Any indications of P/T and/or municipal security/law enforcement services at risk due to illness or absenteeism;
       12. Any regional or local workforce shortages that threaten the resumption activities or could require a federal surge response;
       13. Any lack of Health Services enablers, PHM measures, and social services programs that threaten the resumption of activities or could predicate a federal surge response;
       14. Canadian populations abroad are at risk and could require repatriation to Canada;
       15. Any degradation of private sector capacity threaten the delivery of transportation, essential services and supplies to provinces/territories and remote/northern communities; and
       16. Any essential services and supply chains that are facing critical shortages/pressures and/or are at risk of disruption.
    4. CDS/DM Operational Testing Priorities. As CFHSG increases its capacity for integral COVID-19 operational testing, it will remain critical that this limited resource be used in a deliberate and prioritized manner in support of a Layered Risk Mitigation Strategy. Integral testing will be used to support CAF activities and will be separate from the testing available through public health authorities that support all Canadians based on the following priorities:
       1. Operational Activities. This includes domestic and international deployed operations, NORAD (Quick Reaction Alert Aircraft and Air-to-Air Refueling), Ready Duty Ship, Search and Rescue, CANSOFCOM Critical Capabilities, and Critical Command and Control Capabilities;
       2. Force Generation Activities. This includes specific force generation activities for domestic and international deployed operations, students, instructors and key personnel at CAF training institutions; and
       3. Regular duties. All remaining DND employees and CAF members. Anomalies or situations outside what is covered here should be raised through the Senior Medical Authority (SMA) to CFHSG.
    5. Contact Tracing Strategy. CFHSG is responsible for coordinating with local public health authorities to limit the impact and reduce the transmission of COVID-19. In most instances within Canada, local public health authorities will be the lead contact tracing entity for Defence Team members, including CAF members. However, CFHSG will be the lead for contact tracing in the following limited circumstances:
       1. Contact tracing of CAF members who are located at locations where CFHSG has agreed with local health authorities that CFHSG would act as the lead for CAF member contact tracing;
       2. Contact tracing of Defence Team members who are deployed on international operations or in select circumstances of Defence Team members OUTCAN;
       3. The MND must authorize all CFHSG contact tracing of civilians. CFHSG contact tracing will communicate any information obtained about potential non-DND/CAF contacts to a relevant local public health authority; and
       4. Additionally, CFHSG has developed a surge capacity under Director Force Health Protection to assist local public health authorities to conduct contact tracing. This surge capacity may only be deployed in response to a P/T RFA under the Op LASER authority framework.
    6. Wearing of NMMs/PPE in uniform. The NMM is now a part of our uniform and must be worn within the CAF guidelines of uniformity, discipline and maintaining a positive military appearance. FG/L1s will ensure that NMMs worn while in uniform are conservative in design and colour, provide no overt support to industry, and shall not include slang language or offensive content. FGs will continue to refine, implement and professionalize standards for the wearing of PPE and PHM in CAF operations;
    7. Ceremonial. Military ceremonies such as Changes of Command, Depart with Dignity, promotions and awards are an important aspect of CAF culture. Nonetheless, large gatherings represent a risk of virus transmission and therefore are only permitted within the following limitations:
       1. Ceremonial events are to be limited primarily to signing ceremonies and organizers are to continue to leverage virtual tools to facilitate unit and family participation. The use of Facebook Live and similar platforms to permit virtual participation is encouraged;
       2. The number of attendees will respect P/T health protection measures, physical distancing, and gathering restrictions must be observed;
       3. As Temporary Duty remains restricted to essential travel only, unless a Change of Command coincides with an essential duty, the reviewing officer should not travel to attend the ceremony unless the travel can be undertaken with no additional risk;
       4. Post-ceremony receptions may be permitted at indoor venues with the reception respecting the P/T health measures;
       5. DWD and Farewell/Welcome outdoor BBQs may be permitted so long as DND/CAF PHMs and P/T health measures are respected;
       6. Parades may be conducted with small numbers of personnel, such as a quarter guard, and respecting physical distancing requirements. Live music provided by military bands is permitted provided a minimum of 2m spacing is maintained during the music making and masks are worn when not actively playing. Screen barriers should be used for indoor performances;
       7. Mess Dinners are not currently permitted.
    8. Access to Defence Establishments. Any person who does not have official business within a Defence Establishment, is not authorized to enter the facilities. Exemption requests for access to Defence Establishments, including for the purpose of special interest activities, such as hockey, golf and camping, will be assessed and approved by the relevant FG/L1 based on recommendations from the local Base/Wing Commander. Approval will be based on public health data and regional recommendations with regard to community transmission of COVID-19 and whether appropriate physical distancing and PHMs are in place and will be adhered to. L1s will only consider exemptions once layered risk mitigation strategies are codified, liaison between CAF and community leaders has occurred, and communications plans are in place, and SJS is notified by L1s;
    9. Engagements and Visits. Engagement with external organizations such as foreign delegations, other government departments, and industry may be required in the course of resuming prioritized activities. Engagements and visits remain restricted and should continue to be conducted virtually to the maximum extent possible. However, if DND/CAF and GC PHMs can be strictly followed, face-to-face engagements and visits may be conducted outside of and within Defence Establishments by exception only and under the authority of L1 leaders. Foreign delegations must comply with all GC orders with respect to entry into Canada, as well as any relevant public health self-isolation and/or testing requirements prior to any engagement;
    10. Visits by Parliamentarians/Politicians. As a general rule, the aforementioned visit restrictions apply to requests for visits by parliamentarians, politicians and other dignitaries given the need to preserve force health for operations and mitigation community transmission. Visit requests will be assessed at the FG/L1 level for decision on any exemptions to visit restrictions based on confirmation that community transmission of COVID-19 is under control within the region and that appropriate physical distancing and PHMs can be respected. Again, L1s will only consider exemptions once layered risk mitigation strategies are codified and agreed upon, communications plans are in place, and SJS is notified by L1s;
    11. Visiting Foreign Military Forces. CAF FGs are to maintain robust liaison with allies to ensure collaborative planning for deliberately scheduled operations, training and activities, and to ensure we have visibility on allied intentions to transit through Canada. The following will be considered for visiting foreign military forces:
        1. The relevant FG/L1 will establish CAF host liaison before a visit takes place;
        2. L1s will submit to SJS CONOPs for proposed operations, training, and activities to be conducted with foreign military forces in Canada. CONOPs are to include COVID-19 layered risk mitigation strategies, details regarding community engagement, and communications plan;
        3. Foreign military aircrafts must follow relevant DND/CAF requirements;
        4. Foreign military forces are to respect all PHMs and layered risk mitigation strategies as outlined in annexes B and C;
        5. As much as is possible, foreign military forces should be convinced to contain the activities and transits to Defence establishments to mitigate risk to the Canadian public; and
        6. Upon receipt of positive test within 14 days of visiting Canada, foreign forces shall be requested to immediately communicate results to applicable FG/L1 and/or CAF host liaison member who will ensure appropriate authorities are notified.
    12. Volunteerism. Defence Team members have a strong connection with the volunteer sector in Canada and are often the primary organizers and supporters of volunteer organizations. The CoC is to assess CAF members’ requests to return to volunteer activities to ensure that Force Protection measures are the highest priority, and that all P/T PHMs and additional direction specific to Defence Team members can be respected before any volunteer activity is undertaken. If NMMs/PPE is required to participate in volunteer activities with external organizations, such equipment is to be provided either by the individual or the volunteer organization;
    13. Defence Team Duty/Work Authorized Travel. For Duty/Work related purposes, the following travel is authorized for the Defence Team, including by commercial means if necessary. However, should L1s revert to Stage 2 / Reactivate BCPs, more restrictive travel policies will again be applied:
        1. Domestic non-mission essential travel matching what is permitted in a DND employee / CAF member’s respective P/T;
        2. Domestic mission-essential travel; and
        3. International mission-essential travel should be limited to only non-discretionary travel that must be approved by L1 leaders and cannot be further delegated at this time. Further travel is only permitted provided that the destination and any countries transited do not restrict such travel and that travel is approved by the appropriate L1 (can be delegated to L2s) or the RA for OUTCAN members).
    14. Additional Authorized Travel for CAF members. The following travel is also authorized for CAF members:
        1. Non-Duty Domestic travel matching what is permitted in a CAF member’s respective P/T;
        2. In accordance with ref L, Non-Duty related Domestic travel shall be authorized through the normal process used in units and organizations. Unless stated otherwise at ref FF and at ref HH, all periods of self-isolation or quarantine required by local public health authorities at the travel destination, and at any points in between must be covered by annual leave. If required to self-isolate or quarantine upon return to place of residence, CoCs will be responsible for managing whether telework is feasible for the isolation period and, if not, annual leave will be required for the isolation period;
        3. In accordance with ref L, ref FF and ref HH, Domestic travel for compassionate reasons will continue to be applied as per QR&O 16.17 which will be used to encompass mandatory isolation or quarantine requirements;
        4. In accordance with ref L, ref FF, ref GG and ref HH, International travel for compassionate reasons will continue to be applied as per (QR&O 16.17). Leave covering mandatory self-isolation or quarantine periods will be granted in accordance with QR&O 16.17 and expenses reimbursed as part of the compassionate leave claim. Consideration shall be given prior to approval as to plans for risk mitigation, including the ability to get health care, whether medical insurance is in place, and repatriation of the member if the COVID-19 situation should deteriorate in the planned destination;
        5. Non-Duty related International travel is restricted until further notice unless the reason for travelling is to be reunited with a next of kin in accordance with ref FF, ref GG and ref HH. Any exceptions would require L1 approval (can be delegated to L2s or the RA for OUTCAN members);
        6. In accordance with ref L, ref FF and ref HH, COs may authorize travel and grant CAF members on Imposed Restriction and those who are away from their dependents for an extended period of time and who are unable to reunite with them on weekends a total of seven calendar days every two months to reunite with their dependents to a maximum of 30 days in a fiscal year. Transportation will be at member’s expense. If travel results in a self-isolation requirement it will be considered duty. If self-isolation must be undertaken at other than the member’s primary residence, then all cost will be borne by the unit. Parameters for this special leave are as follows:
           1. May be combined with compassionate leave;
           2. May not be combined with annual leave; and
           3. May not be carried over, accumulated, or cashed-out.
    15. Reporting. The following COVID-19 related reports will be provided to the SJS upon request:
        1. MPC/CFHS to provide reports on the 90-day supply inventory for medical-grade PPE (i.e. Surgical and N95 masks, protective eyewear, shields, gowns and gloves;
        2. SJS to provide reports on inventories for NMMs held at bases/wings;
        3. VCDS to provide reports on consolidated non-medical PPE and NMMs requirements for OUTCAN elements; and
        4. ADM (Mat) to provide reports on the output of NMMs at regional production facilities and the quantity of commercially sourced PPE and NMMs received.
    16. Public Affairs Posture. The public affairs approach is active and closely coordinated with the GC and L1s in support of GC priorities. Alignment and synchronization of internal and external narratives and activities will enable support for Defence Team activities. The approach should also be aligned with those of Allies and partners, highlighting how DND/CAF continues to engage and contribute globally in support of GC objectives.
    17. T-DVPNI. T-DVPNI remains the primary enabler for Defence Team members’ ability to work from home.  The T-DVPNI capacity has been expanded to allow unrestricted allocation of access across the organizations.  L1 organizations are no longer required to control access or manage an allocation of connections to T-DVPNI; and
    18. Indoor Social Gathering. Based on the COVID-19 resurgence, CAF members and DND employees are urged to limit indoor social gatherings to their immediate household during the holiday period, except to be reunited with their primary next of kin. Local PHMs should be considered the minimum measures adhered to by all CAF members and DND employees. Additional safety advice from PHAC can be found at the following link: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/guidance-documents/plan-safe-holiday-celebration.html.

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Concept of support

15. (U) The COVID-19 crisis stressed critical supply chains that Canadians rely upon and that are essential to CAF operations. While L1 organisations are resuming activities in a progressive, deliberate, and safe manner, to ensure the ongoing and future operational effectiveness of the CAF, CAF supply chain strength remains a major enabling factor to continue supporting and protecting the health, safety and overall wellness of our Defence Team.
16. (U) Procurement and Distribution of PPE and NMMs. While CAF supply chain and support systems are gradually returning to new normal levels of activity, there remains a particular focus on PPE and NMM.
    1. Procurement.
       1. Medical PPE. Medical authorities will continue to gradually stockpile medical PPE to ensure CAF core missions and CDS/DM priorities are supported;
       2. NMMs. NMMs will be procured in accordance with the requirements outlined in the ADM (Mat) Canadian Forces Technical Order at ref V which indicates the technical specifications as approved by CFHSG. National procurement contracts are in place to maintain a ratio of at least three NMMs per Defence Team member, allow for replacement of NMMs and to prepare for a possible resurgence;
          1. Local Purchase Order (LPO). L1s are authorised to acquire NMMs through LPO for their Defence Team personnel if necessary for reasons such as the inadequate fit of NMMs provided through national contracts. Any LPO of non-medical masks must meet the requirements as outlined in the ADM (Mat) Canadian Forces Technical Order at ref V; and
          2. Accountability. NMMs will have a Permanent System Control Number attributed to them for tracking purposes, but will be treated as a consumable item. Inventory will not be managed below the base/wing level and NMMs will not be placed on CAF members’ clothing documents.
    2. Apportionment and Distribution. Based on CDS/DM priorities and ongoing discussions between Strat J4 and L1 Log reps, apportionment of NMMs are adjusted to ensure priorities are met.
17. (U) L1s are to fund and capture all expenditures associated with this directive using internal financial coding and funding. L1s are to create their own Internal Orders (IOs) and charge all expenditures to this IO. All IOs are to be linked to the IO Group GEN039.20 for local fund expenses related to COVID-19. Any pressures are to be reported through the regular reporting process.
18. (U) Office of Primary Interest (BRP). VCDS.
19. (U) Office of Collateral Interest (BRP). DOS SJS.
20. (U) Op LASER Supported Commander. Comd CJOC.
21. (U) SJS Points of Contact:
    1. Col Mark Roberts, SJS Director Plans North America, 613-901-5397;
    2. Chris Charron, SJS Section Head Emergency Management; 613-905-5824; and
    3. Chantal Cloutier, SJS Strategic Advisor, 613-904-6104.

Distribution List

Action

• VCDS
• SJS DOS
• Comd RCN
• Comd CA
• Comd RCAF
• Comd MPC
• Comd CJOC
• Comd CANSOFCOM
• Comd CANELEMNORAD
• DComd JFC Naples
• Comd CFINTCOM
• JAG
• ADM (Pol)
• ADM (Mat)
• ADM (IM)
• ADM (IE)
• ADM (Fin)/CFO
• ADM (DRDC)
• ADM HR-Civ
• ADM (RS)
• ADM (DIA)
• ADM (PA)
• CFLA
• Corp Sec
• ED NSIROCS

Information

• MND
• Assoc MND
• Senior Assoc DM
• CDRNORAD

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Annex A – Glossary - Lexicon

1. Cluster. A group of COVID-19 cases identified as being closely linked in time or space through a specific event, location, or common exposure.
2. Cohort. Groups that are sub-divided (into cohorts) to simplify contact tracing or to reduce potential transmission of an infection.
3. Contact. Someone who has had contact with a COVID-19 case during the infectious period.
4. Contact Tracing. Contact-tracing (CT) for the Defence Team will be performed to interrupt ongoing transmission and reduce the spread of an infection such as COVID-19. It alerts contacts to the possibility of infection, provides an opportunity for education, and determines what additional PHMs need to be taken to limit the transmission of COVID-19:
   1. CT of Defence Team members is normally performed by local public health authorities; and
   2. If authorized by the MND, and only to the extent authorized by MND, the CAF may perform CT for DND employees, other Government of Canada (GC) employees, and CFMWS employees who are part of the Defence Team. This would only happen in an OUTCAN/deployed situation.
5. Contact Tracer. A member of the Health Services team who has been trained to conduct interviews and follow up with COVID-19 Cases and Contacts.
6. COVID-19. COVID-19 is the clinical symptomatic disease caused by the SARS COV-2 virus.
7. COVID-19 Case. A person with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 identified by a positive test result. Prior to receiving the results of testing, a person who is thought to have COVID-19 may be considered a “probable case.” A probable case will be treated as a COVID-19 case.
8. COVID-19 Protective Zones. The following zones will categorize exposure risk and help DND/CAF establish appropriate Public Health Measures (PHMs) and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) priorities for Defence Team members based on your work environment:
   1. Home Zone: Place of duty is at home or in quarantine;
   2. PHM Zone: Duties and work environments, where two metre physical distancing can be maintained;
   3. PHM Zone – Enhanced: Duties and work environments where two metre physical distancing cannot be maintained;
   4. PPE Zone: Duties and work environment that involves coming in contact with known COVID-19 infected or symptomatic individuals, their belongings or environment; and
   5. PPE Zone – Medical: Healthcare providers and first responders who provide patient care to known COVID-19 infected or symptomatic individuals.
9. Isolation. A preventive measure against the spread of an infectious disease involving the separation of an infected person from non-infected people during the communicable period of the disease.
10. Layered Risk Mitigation Strategy (Leader COVID-19 Layered Risk Mitigation Strategy diagram at Annex C). Layered Risk Mitigation is a strategy to reduce the risk of COVID-19 Cases from infecting a DND/CAF group by applying a number of risk reduction tools. This always begins with PHMs but includes additional tools such as screening questionnaires, quarantine, operational testing, contact tracing, and the sequestering of forces. Each layer in the strategy reduces risk in an attempt to minimize the chance of an infected person adversely affecting a mission and limiting the impact if they do.
11. Non-Medical Mask. A non-medical mask is a mask that fully covers the nose and mouth to prevent respiratory droplets from contaminating people or things in the immediate vicinity of the wearer. The wearing of a non-medical mask is considered a PHM that will protect others from you in the course of your normal activities. Specific guidance on the use of non-medical masks can be found at ref V and in Annex A.
12. Onboarding. The action or process of integrating a new employee into an organization.
13. Operational Testing. Operational testing means any testing for COVID-19 which is not required for clinical reasons. This generally refers to the testing of asymptomatic persons to ensure they are not unknowingly infected. Testing alone has significant limitations and must be considered in conjunction with other risk reduction methods.
14. Outbreak. An epidemic limited to a localized increase in the incidence of a disease.
15. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). All PPE referred to throughout this directive is related to the use of PPE in the COVID-19 context. There are two categories of PPE: medical-grade PPE and non-medical PPE. The wearing of non-medical PPE is considered a PHM that will protect other people from you in the same way wearing a non-medical mask does. Medical-grade PPE is for the sole purpose of protecting you from infection when performing tasks which place you at higher risk of exposure to pathogens like COVID-19. Medical-grade PPE is used in conjunction with PHMs. Users of medical-grade PPE are normally restricted to members on operations, first responders and health care workers where specific guidance on its allocation and use is already provided in separate policies, directives, and orders. Medical-grade PPE includes equipment such as: surgical and N95 masks, eye protection, face shields, gloves, and gowns. Medical-grade PPE will not be issued to the majority of Defence Team personnel.
16. Physical Distancing. This means making changes in your everyday routines in order to minimize close contact with others, including keeping a distance of at least 2 arms lengths (approximately 2 metres) from others, as much as possible.
17. Prevalence. This refers to an epidemiological concept of the frequency of an exposure or an outcome such as the number of cases of an infection that is occurring in a defined population of individuals/people at one point in time or within a specified period of time.
18. Public Health Measures (PHMs). PHMs are behaviours, actions, or the wearing of non-medical equipment which may help reduce the risk of transmission of infectious diseases. Some PHMs provide limited protection from others, but their most important feature is they protect others from you in the course of your duties in the DND/CAF workplace and in the community. Judicious application of PHMs is all that is needed for most members of the Defence Team and should be the default for all settings. Specific guidance on PHMs and a Decision Tool can be found in Annex B.
19. Quarantine. A measure to prevent the spread of an infectious disease in which a healthy person who may have been in contact with an infected person is separated from others for the during the incubation period of the disease. This type of quarantine must be distinguished from quarantine that applies to travellers returning from abroad and is imposed under the Quarantine Act, and constitutionally is within the exclusive authority of the federal government.
20. Re-onboarding. Occurs in the context of bringing people back into the workplace or into the work environment with potentially different/redefined expectations or requirements.
21. Resurgence. A clear and sharp increase in the number of COVID-19 cases that occur in a specific geographic location, which has experienced a peak and a subsequent plateau or decline. Resurgences can arise from the sum of multiple clusters.
22. Self-Isolation. This is the term that has been used in CAF orders and DND direction throughout the early months of the COVID-19 response, but is to be replaced with the term quarantine going forward.
23. Sequester. Separation of a Cohort of asymptomatic CAF members/DND employees from their friends, families and other members of the Defence Team. Used for the purpose of reducing the potential spread of COVID-19 from the communities in which they live or work into the DND/CAF Cohort or Training Establishment, for the duration of the sequestration.
24. Wave. An uncontrolled spread of cases in multiple geographic locations, which have experienced a peak and a subsequent plateau or decline in cases. A wave is distinguished from a resurgence or cluster by its extensive involvement across multiple regional jurisdictions and prolonged period (weeks to months) of transmission, and may arise from a resurgence.

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Annex B – Public Health Measures and Personal Protective Equipment Decision Tool

1. (U) General Public Health Measures (PHMs). The following PHMs are the most important things you can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace and at home. They include the following:
   1. Stay at home unless you are authorized to report for duty or work;
   2. Avoid all non-essential trips within your community;
   3. Avoid gathering in groups;
   4. Limit contact with people at higher risk (e.g., older adults and those with chronic medical conditions);
   5. If you leave your home, maintain a 2 metre distance from others;
   6. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the washroom and when preparing food (>60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer is an alternative);
   7. Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the bend of your arm and not your hands; and
   8. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
2. Non-Medical Masks (NMMs). The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) released guidance on the use of NMMs (cloth masks/face coverings) in the community. They stated that wearing such a mask has not been proven to protect the person wearing it, but can be used as an additional measure to PROTECT OTHERS around you. Wearing an NMM is considered a PHM and is one way to protect particularly vulnerable populations (i.e., older adults, those with chronic underlying medical conditions or the immunocompromised) by preventing your respiratory droplets from contaminating others or landing on surfaces. The following is the DND direction on the use of NMMs:
   1. Masks must be well-fitted (non-gaping). These masks can become contaminated during use. You must avoid moving the mask around or adjusting it often. Also, masks should not be shared with others;
   2. Masks should be worn for the short periods of time that you are unable to physically distance yourself from others in public spaces and for no longer than 4 hours. Examples include onboard public transport, in elevators, while moving through hallways in buildings or while grocery shopping;
   3. Cloth masks should be changed as soon as they become damp or soiled. They should be placed directly into a washing machine or a disposable bag that can be emptied into a washing machine and then discarded. Cloth masks can be laundered with other items using detergent and a hot cycle, and then dried thoroughly. Masks that cannot be washed should be discarded and replaced as soon as they become damp, soiled or crumpled;
   4. Used masks should be considered as potentially contaminated. When removing a mask, do not touch the front or the inside of the mask; instead remove it by grasping the ties or straps with your fingers. Carefully place disposable masks in regular garbage containers and immediately conduct hand washing; and
   5. Remember not to touch or rub your eyes as that is another route of infection. Wearing an NMM does not replace the need for hand washing and physical distancing.
3. Public Health Measures and PPE Decision Tool. The following flowchart will help guide what level of Public Health Measures to take or PPE to wear if authorized to report for duty or work:

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Annex C – COVID-19 Layered Risk Mitigation Strategy

Annex D – DND/CAF COVID-19 Operational Testing Request Form

Title

DND/CAF COVID-19 Operational Testing Request Form

File name

annex-d-covid-19-operational-testing-request.xlsx

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