The Peterborough Police Service has released details of its COVID-19 vaccination policy.
The policy, which came into effect last Thursday (October 7), “strongly recommends” — but does not require — that all members of the service be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Members have until November 19 to provide proof of full vaccination or a valid medical exemption. After that date, members who are not fully vaccinated or who have a valid medical exemption will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 rapid antigen test — arranged on their own time and at their own expense — on the first and third day of their shift schedule.
Members who are not fully vaccinated and do not have a valid medical exemption will also be required to participate in an vaccine educational program delivered by the City of Peterborough and complete the program by November 26.
The vaccination policy applies to all sworn, civilian, and auxiliary members as well as volunteers, placement students, contractors, and consultants performing work on behalf of the service or within any police facility.
All members of the service, fully vaccinated or not, will continue to follow public health guidelines while working, including wearing personal protective equipment.
“Our mission is to protect the communities we serve, and this policy shows residents and members that the Peterborough Police Service is committed to doing our part,” says Chief Scott Gilbert.
The vaccination policy was developed in coordination and consultation with the Occupational Health and Safety Committee of the Peterborough Police Service, the Peterborough Police Association, the Senior Officers Association, Peterborough Public Health, the City of Peterborough, legal advisors, and other police services.
You can read the complete policy on the Peterborough Police Service website at peterboroughpolice.com.
