News Bulletin - September 29, 2021
Nova Scotia Proof of Full Vaccination Policy
The Nova Scotia Government announced the Proof of Full Vaccination Policy is effective October 4th, 2021. This measure was introduced to help bring large groups of people together safely once there are no longer any gathering limits.
The government has announced that a modified phase 5 will also go into effect on October 4th, 2021. The modifications include continuing the mask requirements, and vaccine status-dependent isolation requirements for everyone entering Nova Scotia from another province or territory. These travel restrictions now apply to Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Licensing Examinations
The Commission is aligning with the province's policy and will require proof of full vaccination for students writing their licensing exams. Providing proof of full vaccination will be in addition to masking, social distancing and sanitizing, which the Commission announced would continue for exams in phase 5.
Students must provide proof of full vaccination as part of the COVID-19 screening declaration that is required to be completed the day before the exam. To be considered fully vaccinated, students must receive their second dose at least 14 days before their scheduled exam.
COVID-19 tests are not a substitute for proof of full vaccination and will not be accepted.
Students who are unable to get vaccinated per the exemptions set out under the Nova Scotia Proof of Full Vaccination Policy must contact the Registrar for alternate arrangements. Students who are unable to wear a mask for the duration of the exam due to medical reasons must also contract the Registrar for alternate arrangements. Students must provide their Valid Medical Contraindication for COVID-19 Vaccination letter from a physician confirming the need for alternate arrangements.
Commission Office
The Commission office is continuing to follow COVID-19 safety measures. Public and licensee access to the Commission office is by appointment only. Visitors to the office are also required to provide proof of full vaccination, wear a mask, sanitize, and respect social distancing. Those wanting to visit the office, but are unable to meet the COVID-19 guidelines must contact the Registrar for alternate arrangements.
Brokerages
At this time, the Nova Scotia Government does not specifically address the real estate industry in their list of places that requires proof of full vaccination. However, licensees should keep in mind that trading in real estate may involve meeting with multiple groups of people, conducting meetings, viewings or open houses indoors, and traveling across the province, all of which could increases the risk of exposure to COVID-19. Licensees and consumers must follow the public health measures as required by the government and may continue to follow them as safety precautions even as we move forward to "living with COVID-19."
The Nova Scotia Proof of Full Vaccination Policy states "businesses and organizations can set their own vaccination policies if proof of vaccination isn’t required under the Proof of Full Vaccination Policy and for their employees." Brokers who wish to implement a proof of vaccination policy for their staff and/or clients and customers may do so and should review the province's full policy when it becomes available and speak to legal counsel.
The Nova Scotia government also has a Private Property Event Guideline and a Working and Businesses page with guidance for employers and employees on how to keep workplaces safe and help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The following paragraph has been revised. To view the updated bulletin, click HERE.
Open houses would be an example of an "indoor and outdoor events and activities like receptions, social events, conferences and training that are hosted by a business or organization" which would require proof of full vaccination from those attending. Private, controlled showings/inspections would not be subject to the vaccine policy. However, it is important for licensees to have conversations with their clients about COVID-19 safety measures. Clients may request that licensees, consumers, inspectors, etc. who enter their home provide proof of vaccination, wear masks or gloves, sanitize, etc. Licensees must follow the lawful instruction of their clients.
COVID-19 Resources
The Commission is continuing to monitor the COVID-19 orders, directives and guidelines from the government. We will continue to communicate with the industry as information is made available.
