Vaccination/Test Proof for Public Buildings Takes Effect Oct 1
Well, you heard it was coming and now it is official, the actual Statutory Instrument issued today. As October 1st anyone who needs to go to a public medical facility, government office or the office of a statutory body must show proof that they have been vaccinated against COVID-19 or have an upcoming date for their second dose. Without that, they must show a negative COVID test taken no more than two weeks before. The original announcement said all buildings the public can access, including privately owned businesses, but that has been changed to say those business owners may choose to make the same requirements. So that is now up to individual establishments. As for the government buildings vaccine or test mandate, it also applies to employees at those officers. Failure to comply will result in the worker being barred from the building and being marked absent. Other disciplinary actions may also be taken. Exceptions are being made for those seeking medical care or brought in for questioning by police, but these people are subject to testing while there. Under the new S.I., violators who are caught will be ticketed. The new rules apply to all persons over 12 years old. Additionally, due to concerns about masks the criminal element, the S.I. now prohibits the use of neck gaiters, fishing face masks, ski masks, any closed tube of fabric or other similar face, neck or head covering that exposes only part of the face. So many sure you keep a copy of your vaccination card or recent COVID negative test result handy when you visit any public building starting this Friday.
