The union that represents Fanshawe College faculty is looking to appeal the schools decision the lift indoor masking mandates on campus.
On Monday, OPSEU Local 110 has filed a group grievance complaint, calling to on the college to require indoor masking for students and staff. The union that represents almost 1,000 staff members, has accused the college of creating an unsafe work environment, after ditching the mandates, social distancing and other safety measures. According to Local 110, numerous members are concerned for their own health and safety and their family members.
”Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, employers must take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances to ensure a healthy and safe workplace. We are asking Fanshawe to follow its obligations under the law.” Local 110 President Mark Feltham
Western University has kept their mandatory indoor masking for students which they announced back in August. They have also made a third booster shot a requirement for in-classroom learning.
The University of Western Staff Association has taken a different approach and are challenging the notion for booster requirements, as well as 5 students in an attempt to block the mandate last month.
Fanshawe students have mixed emotions with the decision.
With 65% of classes now in person, Fanshawe College has stated that “Students and employees are encouraged to mask indoors and stay up to date on recommended doses of COVID-19 vaccine,” but it is not a mandated requirement.
“We will continue to follow the advice and recommendations from our regional public health authorities, which may include the reintroduction of some COVID protocols during the academic year as they become necessary.” Peter Gilbert, Chief infrastructure officer at Fanshawe
