Federal government measures that have been put in place in response to the COVID-19 pandemic may affect members who are required to temporarily cross the Canada-U.S. border to access customers who are living on Canadian island border locations and are only accessible from the United States side.
The CPA contacted the Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) to get clarity on border crossing requirements. The CBSA indicated that currently, all drivers who cross the border, regardless of the reason, are expected to self quarantine upon return for 14 days when not carrying out the function of their duties. This means that drivers required to cross the border to conduct a delivery, and then return to Canada, are expected to continue with their duties, but once those duties have been completed, they are expected to self-isolate until they return to their work duties. Essentially, drivers can continue to work in their delivery capacity when not self-isolating at home during the 14-day isolation period. This activity is allowed because these deliveries are considered an essential service.
The CBSA also stated that the current situation is very fluid, and any driver required to carry out this type of delivery should have their office conduct a verification call to the CBSA at 1-800-461-9999, select language choice, then select “0” and ask to speak with a senior officer. This officer will be able to indicate if the situation has changed from the above currently available information.
For any questions regarding border crossings or other regulatory issues which may arise due to the COVID-19 pandemic, please contact robertloenhart@propane.ca and the CPA will find the answers you need.