Field inspections during the COVID-19 pandemic

Field inspections during the COVID-19 pandemic [PDF 305  KB]

31 July 2020
File No: OF-Gen 0101

To: All Companies under the Jurisdiction of the Canada Energy Regulator

Field inspections during the COVID-19 pandemic

The CER continues to follow a risk-based approach in planning and conducting compliance verification activities (CVAs) during the Covid-19 pandemic. Field inspections are an important tool we use to deliver on our mandate to protect people and the environment.

The CER has an internal occupational health and safety program that requires the implementation of infection control measures for both CER staff and those accompanying them during field inspections. These measures align with guidance from the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and include, but are not limited to:

  • maintaining a physical distance of at least 2 meters,
  • hygiene practices including handwashing and use of alcohol-based sanitizers,
  • minimizing touching of high-contact surfaces,
  • daily self-monitoring for symptoms of Covid-19, and
  • equipping staff with appropriate supplies including non-medical masks (NMMs) and gloves.

The health and safety of our staff and company personnel is a joint responsibility between the CER and its regulated companies. When an inspection is planned, CER staff may request a copy of the company’s COVID-19 workplace practices to familiarize themselves with the actions that are being undertaken at the facility/worksite to protect company staff and visitors. CER Officers will work cooperatively with companies in ensuring collectively we prevent the spread of Covid-19.

CER Officers continue to have the power to enter and inspect facilities to verify compliance, prevent harm, or prevent a non-compliance from occurring. CER Inspection, Safety, Conservation, and Labour Program Officers or those that accompany them will participate in Company and contractor requirements, such as pre-screening questionnaires and temperature screening, to the degree reasonable (e.g. one temperature screening and/or questionnaire per day); requests deemed unreasonable by CER Officers will be discussed with Company representatives and may be denied at the Officer’s discretion.

The CER is dedicated to the safety and well-being of its staff, Indigenous communities, the public, companies we regulate and protecting the environment. For more information on how the CER is continuing its regulatory oversight during the COVID-19 pandemic, please refer to the following link: Keeping energy moving safely during a pandemic.

Yours Sincerely,

Original signed by

Marc Pauzé
Acting Vice President
Field Operations

Date modified: