In the Union’s Coronavirus Update #10 we committed to following up on three questions that have been asked by many of you. After reaching out to the company, we have been provided the following answers. Please note that much of this information can also be found in the company’s FAQ document which is updated regularly.
- Some members have expressed concern about the 8-day delay.
- The company does not have control over, or any details of the cases handled by the public health authority. This includes knowing when they make the connection regarding the patients’ travel history. As soon as the company received notification, it reached out to the Union and ALL crewmembers onboard in order to advise them of the situation. As noted in the company’s bulletin, it recognized that all crew may have come into contact with the passenger and deserved to be informed. Also, the company issued a bulletin advising all employees that there had been a confirmed case.
- Concerns have been raised about the grooming of this aircraft.
- In addition to regular grooming, the aircraft was subject to two deep grooming procedures since the flight in question, in which a hospital grade anti-viral agent approved by Health Canada was used to wipe down all hard surfaces including galleys and lavatories. The product is effective against coronaviruses.
- Concerns have been raised about crew who may have operated subsequent flights.
- The company is in constant communication with the authorities and is following their direct guidance. In this case the risk was deemed so low that no isolation was required or advised. The health authority also had no concerns about allowing the affected crew to continue flying duties should they wish. Public health authorities will be in contact with the crew to monitor their situation closely, and there is a commitment not to operate if ill or otherwise showing symptoms.
The Union’s Coronavirus Update #10 included information about the work refusal process, but we encourage you to report any concerns proactively to the company through official reporting channels. The Union is limited on the information it can provide as it is not the employer. Any concerns you feel pertain to your Health and Safety should be reported so you are getting accurate and timely information from your employer, Air Canada or Air Canada Rouge. This ensures that the company knows about your issue, as well as the joint health and safety committees. We cannot stress how important proper reporting is. Here is how to file a health and safety complaint:
Mainline:
- Health and Safety Complaint eReport (OHS) – Use this form if you have any health or safety related concerns.
- The Electronic versions of these documents can be filled out:
- On the iPad if you are an in-charge
- Through SIMS (ACAeronet.aircanada.ca > Safety > Submit a report/SIMS). See your manual chapter 2 for details.
- If filing in SIMS ensure to “set the department” before hitting submit or you may encounter an error message.
Rouge:
- IFS Occupational Health & Safety eReport: If you have concerns about any part of your incident that might be or is a health and safety hazard in the workplace, it is important to file a health and safety concern in AQD.
Instructions on filing AQD E-reports can be found in Chapter 2 of your flight attendant manual (PUB).
Mainline & Rouge:
***ALL company communication will be sent to your Air Canada email – even if you file using paper forms. Please ensure to enter your AC email address correctly when required and to verify it periodically. ***
In Solidarity,
Wesley Lesosky
President, Air Canada Component of CUPE