The Ontario Government is closing down nonessential businesses to slow the spread of COVID-19. They have released a list of essential workplaces and services that can remain open, in which several sections apply to our industry. The list is very broad in its scope but we feel sections 2, 13, 28 and 70 apply to the swimming pool and spa industry. The segments covered include manufacturing, distribution, retail, service and construction. The most important factor in keeping your business open is that you can ensure the health and welfare of your employees. This includes social distancing, hand sanitizer and sanitary working conditions. Should these not be provided it does not matter if you are an essential business, you will be shut down.
The Sections are stated below; Section 2. “Businesses engaged in the retail and wholesale sale of food, pet food and supplies, and household consumer products necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operations of residences and businesses, including grocery stores, supermarkets, convenience stores, markets, and other similar retailers;” Section 13. “Businesses that provide support and maintenance services, including urgent repair, to maintain the safety, security, sanitation and essential operation of institutional, commercial, industrial and residential properties and buildings, including, property management services, plumbers, electricians, custodial/janitorial workers, cleaning services, security services, fire safety, and sprinkler systems, building systems maintenance and repair technicians and engineers, mechanics, (e.g. HVAC, escalator, and elevator technicians), and other service providers who provide similar services;” Section 28. Construction work and services, including demolition services, in the industrial, commercial, institutional and residential sectors; Section 70. Businesses that support the safe operation of residences and essential businesses;
A lot of work continues behind the scenes to ensure that the swimming pool and spa industry remains an essential business. There will be further cuts and modifications as the Ontario Government reduces the amount of people working to reduce the potential transmission of COVID-19. It is import for our industry to be able to defend our classification as an essential business. There will be people that will not be happy that we can continue to work and they cannot. It is important therefore to communicate to your staff and to your customers why your business is essential. Both may be confronted and should be well informed. Post the sections that pertain to your business in your place of business and in your communications with customers and employees. The main point to make is that COVID-19 cannot live in properly sanitized (Chlorine or Bromine) water. This is achieved by applying sanitation products through the service of existing swimming pools and spas and their availability in your retail outlet. Our ability to build and install swimming pools and hot tubs is a benefit for families forced to stay home. I have attached two U.S. press releases from the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance to provide you with more information to pass on to your customers and any future potential complaints. We have also included a Mursatt COVID-19 Residential Pool and Hot Tub Guidance Sheet. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to call.