QC: What the province's new COVID-19 restrictions mean to the propane industry

With the Québec government’s recent announcement on January 6, 2021, the lockdown issued prior to the holidays has been extended for at least another four weeks, in addition to new restrictions that include a mandatory curfew from 8 pm to 5 am EST until at least Feb. 8, 2021.

What does this mean for the propane industry? Propane remains on the essential services list.

Specific rules for the propane industry include:

• Working from home where possible for administrative, accounting, sales, customer service, etc.
• Any new installation projects not deemed as essential should be postponed until the planned end date of the restrictions. For example, any project that is related to such activities as primary heating and cooking or used in continuous industrial processes such as mining is considered essential. However, the installation of an auxiliary heating system, for example, is not considered an essential project.
• Urgent and essential repairs and modifications to facilities will be permitted. (The same considerations as indicated for the execution of installation projects may be used.)
• Deliveries will be maintained. However, the propane industry is asked to minimize travel during curfew periods and prioritize daytime deliveries. If required to travel during the curfew due to work, employees must carry a document completed by their employer that demonstrates such travel is legitimate. Download the form.
• Continue to ensure all sanitary measures for all employees and customers (see CPA’s Best practices recommended during COVID-19).