Hamilton’s McMaster Innovation Park to require proof of COVID-19 vaccination status

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Published September 13, 2021 at 1:30 pm

McMaster Innovation Park (MIP) announced on Monday (Sept. 13) that starting Nov. 1, anyone accessing its facilities will be required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

“This new, mandatory policy applies to employees, customers, contractors, visitors of MIP and MIP tenants using common areas such as the atrium, entrances, common hallways, elevators, fitness facilities, and conference rooms at the park,” a press release said.

Screening for COVID-19 symptoms will also be required in order to access MIP buildings.

Additionally, people who use facilities such as fitness and conferences “must provide proof of full vaccination by September 22 as stipulated by the Ontario Provincial government’s approach for higher-risk indoor public settings where face coverings cannot be worn.”

After Nov. 1, however, entrance to MIP’s common areas will be allowed with proof of vaccine through Ontario’s “enhanced COVID-19 vaccine certificate” system and upon completion of a symptom screening.

Individuals who are unable to receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions as stipulated by the Province will be permitted entry with a doctor’s note until a standardised system is introduced through the vaccine passport system.

McMaster University introduced a policy last month for all members of the public, staff and students accessing the university’s campuses, including for placements in Mac hospitals and health facilities, require proof of vaccination.

That policy did not, however, cover MIP because the innovation incubator, while owned by the university, operates separately as a for-profit business.

“Tenant ventures must ensure that their employees, customers, contractors and visitors comply with MIP’s common-area policy and they shall remain responsible for complying with applicable public health guidelines within their own suites and facilities,” the release said.

“The implementation of this new vaccine mandate policy reinforces our bid to provide a working environment where individuals can safely perform their duties and protect those accessing these services.”

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