Effective September 30, 2021, Canada Life will require everyone in its offices to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, the insurer said in a message to its employees. This includes employees, contractors and advisors, the insurer adds.

“Our current health protocols have been very effective. Unfortunately, we’re still continuing to see a concerning increase in COVID-19 cases across Canada, caused by the more contagious Delta variant,” reads the internal message co-signed by Canada Life CEO Paul Mahon and Jeff Macoun, President and Chief Operating officer, Canada.

Many financial institutions have announced similar measures in recent weeks, including Sun Life and the major Canadian banks. 

Voluntary basis  

Beginning September 30, employees will be asked to attest to their vaccination status. “This attestation is voluntary and does not require proof of vaccination. The information you provide is confidential and will only be available to select Human Resources employees,” Canada Life explains.

Employees who have not disclosed their vaccination status will be required to undergo “regular Rapid Testing and must receive a negative result before entering the office.” The same policy applies to people who cannot be vaccinated.

Advisors and contractors working in the insurer’s offices must complete the health screening questionnaire and attest to their vaccination or rapid testing status, Canada Life adds.