COVID-19 update for correctional employees: August 14, 2020

This content is a message to Correctional Service Canada (CSC) staff from CSC's Commissioner.

We are making good progress as we shape Correctional Service Canada's (CSC's) new normal and resume certain activities across the organization. Programming has resumed at several of our institutions and many inmates have been able to connect with loved ones through in-person visits, which began to resume across the country in July. Here are this week’s updates.

National and regional headquarters surveys

I would like to thank employees at national and regional headquarters who participated in discussions with their managers in response to a Shaping the New Normal survey. The survey is part of an environmental assessment being done by the Workforce and Administration Working Group (WAWG) to look at what CSC needs to put in place moving forward. The results are currently being reviewed and will inform decision-making.

Updated Integrated Risk Management Framework

An updated Integrated Risk Management Framework (IRMF) is now available on the Hub. I encourage you to review the framework. It provides an update on programs and services that have been reinstated in institutions and the community.

Provincial travel advisories

Information about provincial travel restrictions and advisories across Canada is now available on CSC’s website. This information helps people make decisions about inter-provincial travel. It can also be useful for potential visitors who are planning a trip to one of our sites. I recommend that you review the information.

Dos and don’ts of non-medical masks and face coverings

Masks are now an important part of our wardrobe. We have been raising awareness of the public health guidance around non-medical masks as they are not all created equal. Some masks have limitations that make them unsafe.

Cloth masks are not medical devices and are not regulated in the same way as medical masks and respirators. The protection provided by cloth masks can vary with:

• the material used
• the construction, and
• the fit

If you are using a cloth mask, some important tips to remember include ensuring that:

• the mask is made of at least two layers of tightly woven fabric, and
• your nose and mouth are fully covered

Some commercially available masks also have exhalation valves that make the mask more breathable for the person wearing it, but these valves also allow infectious respiratory droplets to spread outside the mask when someone breathes out. These masks with exhalation valves are not recommended.

Always remember that wearing a non-medical mask or face covering alone will not prevent the spread of COVID-19. Layers of prevention measures are needed. You must also:

• wash your hands often
• practice physical distancing of at least 2 metres from others, and
• stay home if you are sick

Please refer to this helpful list from the Public Health Agency of Canada on the:

• do’s and don’ts for wearing masks and face coverings

Resources for managers

As we navigate through these unprecedented times, CSC has developed a list of tools including virtual training and job aid resources to help managers support their teams. These resources are available on the Hub under Information for Managers. New information and resources continue to be added to the page, so please check back regularly.

Employee featured in photo documentary

A recent story was published by Radio-Canada [French Only] about Carol Link, a Correctional Officer at Saskatchewan Penitentiary. I want to share it with you because it highlights the positive impact that CSC has on the offenders in our care. Thanks for the great work Carol and for taking pride in your work.

National Acadian Day

August 15 is National Acadian Day, a day to celebrate the rich culture and heritage of Acadian people. Everyone is encouraged to visit the National Acadian Day webpage to learn more about this unique and important culture in Canada, including a list of virtual activities taking place this year that will highlight the dynamism and vitality of the Acadian people. To all our employees who have Acadian roots, happy National Acadian Day!

Students

I would like to thank all students who have worked at CSC over the past few months. While it may have been a bit of a different experience due to COVID, we are proud of the progress and accomplishments that you achieved in your time with us. Your diverse views and perspectives are key to the work we do and CSC values your contributions. Now that your experience is coming to an end, it is time to reflect on these achievements and look towards the future. You are encouraged to participate in:

• the Closing Event for Students 2020 that will take place on August 19

Many of CSC's employees have children and I know that the return to school is top of mind for many as different Provinces roll out their education plans. School may not look exactly as it did last year and I know this will require a bit of adjustment as families plan for this.

Thank you to all of you for your continued dedication and hard work during this period of transition and please remember to reach out to your teams and manager to keep lines of communication open; we are all in this together.