Help us make your experience safe and smooth.

General:

We ask you to stay at home if you feel unwell or have an unusually high temperature (we will refund you). We will do the same.  We’ve moved down to the beach! Please park in the Tin Wis Best Western parking lot and follow the flags down towards the beach. You can’t miss us! 

Signage regarding social distancing, covid and hand washing etc will be posted both for customers and staff. Our You Tube Channel, Facebook page and your confirmation email also have videos to explain how- to’s and safety.

We request that you wash their hands regularly: at a minimum, before arriving to our shop. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer will also be provided in our indoor and outdoor areas.

Physical distancing of 2 meters, or 6 feet, will be maintained between staff and customers at all times.

Please be patient with us as we proceed with our safety precautions. Everything will be longer than usual wait times and rental/lesson coordination may take longer.

Participation requirements: 

We ask you to stay at home if you feel unwell or have an unusually high temperature. We will do the same.

You should be physically capable enough to handle their own surfboards without assistance. You must have basic swim skills. Until Covid 19 restrictions lift, if you are requiring special assistance and or are signing up a young child, please do not participate without a parent/guardian to act as a handler. 

Lesson Check-in/Waivers/Payment:

We strongly recommend online bookings and payment for both rentals and lessons. Waivers need to be signed online or emailed to prior to arrival, if the booking was done over the phone or email. 

In event where this is not possible, we will take payment and sign waivers in a way that respects the safety of staff and clients, respects social distancing and adheres to Worksafe BC regulations. When you get to the shop, you can still book online at the and sign the waives. Every participant must sign a waiver.

Cash will be accepted, but not recommended. Please sanitize before handing us the cash. 

Payment and signing of waivers will be conducted under the plexiglass shield. If a you cannot tap for payment, please sanitize before touching the pen, paper, iPad, etc and staff will disinfect the equipment.

We request that you choose your wetsuits size and board choice when doing your online rental or lesson booking.

Maximum number of people in store/ physical distancing requirements: 2 metre physical distance between any 2 people is required at all times. 1 person employee in the back room at a time. 1 customer inside the shop at a time.

Lesson Preparation & Gear Handling:

Only 1 instructor will be preparing, handling gear and totes.

Wetsuit & Board Distribution:

Hands are sanitized then wetsuits/gear will be placed close to customer on the ground maintaining social distancing (suits in a tote with a lid on it). Customers will be explained how to put the wetsuit one handle and carry the board or kayak and go through a safety briefing. Our You Tube Channel, Facebook page and your confirmation email also have videos to explain how- to’s and safety.

Fitting rooms are closed until further notice. Please come prepared in your bathing suit! Customers are to change away from the shop into rental gear or on the deck for lessons, on designated areas (surfboards). Personal items are taken with you in the bin.

If a suit does not fit, you will be given a different wetsuit (maintaining social distancing) and you can place the wrong suit in a designated bin.

We request that gear is returned sand free.

We will have 1 employee at the wash station at a time.

Transportation:

Instructors who are not in the same household should take separate vehicles to the beach. Work vehicles should be sanitized after each shift once we are using these. Students should transport themselves to and from the beach. Keep sanitizer in the vehicle for when you are done loading gear at the end of the lesson. Sanitize before touching the vehicle.

Beach Lesson:

Beach theory will be conducted with social distancing measures in place. There will be increased focus on the fundamental/very basic skills like positioning on the board, catching a white water wave and prone/belly surfing, getting back on the SUP, etc to minimize the need for any physical assistance needed in the water.  

The Buddy system works well for physical distancing during lessons and tours.

Instructors who are assisting customers catch a wave should do so by using verbal and action cues. Social Distancing measures are to remain in place. If touching the customer’s equipment, the instructor must be wearing surf gloves. 

Water Skill and Safety:

Instructors will communicate with the group and individuals using verbal commands. Instructors who are assisting customers catch a wave should do so by using verbal and action cues. Social Distancing measures are to remain in place. If touching the customer’s equipment, the instructor must be wearing surf gloves. Instructors will choose appropriate areas for their students and be very vocal to keep the group organized. 

Whistle patterns for group communication:

1 long blast      :    Attention of students

2 short blasts   :    Attention of another instructor

3 long blasts    :    Emergency

The Buddy system works well for physical distancing during lessons and tours.

First Aid and Water Rescue:

The main recommendation from Lifesaving Society with our Lifesaving Certification is for us to approach any person as ‘Universal’ which means to assume that they are a covid-19 carrier.  We will ask family/group members to do hands on first aid. 911 is always called.

Wetsuit Returns on Lessons:

At the end of the lesson the customer will place their wetsuit in their respective totes and place near the back of the instructor’s vehicle while maintaining physical distance. Staff will sanitize their hands and practice good hygiene prior to and after handling totes. Sanitizer will kept in the vehicle for when they are done loading gear at the end of the lesson and before touching the vehicle.

Washing Wetsuit/Board/Totes:

Wetsuits will be returned free of sand and placed in the designated area near our washing station in the totes, with the lids on, by the customer. The wetsuits are agitated and soaked in a soap solution then rinsed in soapy water followed by fresh water. 

Boards and kayaks will be returned free of sand and placed in the designated area, by the customer. Customers will show the staff that there are no damages, then equipment will be sprayed with a bleach spray (Oxygenic Brand) on it and let it sit for a minute or two. 

After that we will will continue with our normal cleaning cycle.

Retail:

Retail items are not to be touched by the customer. Clerks must sanitize before touching retail items and handing to customer. No returns at this time. Fitting rooms are closed until further notice. Staff will sanitize hands before restocking shelves. Reusable bags/ bagging: Reusable bags are permitted.  We ask customers to wash reusable bags regularly.  Local shopping bag bylaws must be observed.

Personal Protective Gear:

Masks: Employees have reviewed the information on selecting and using masks and instructions on how to use a mask and understand the limitations of masks to protect the wearer from respiratory droplets. We understand that masks should only be considered when other control measures cannot be implemented. Employees know where to find information in the proper use of masks here.

Gloves: If we are touching the same board as the customer during lesson or tour, we will wear surfing gloves. Each staff has their own pair of wash gloves to wear when washing suits.

Rental Deliveries:

Prepaid deliveries only. We will maintain physical distancing when dropping off.

We will communicate by phone that your delivery has been made. Delivery vehicles must have sanitizers and follow vehicle cleaning protocols.

After Your Visit:

We encourage customers to reach out to business, if shortly after their visit they develop symptoms of or are diagnosed with Covid-19 for the business to trace contact with staff and other customers.

We are closely monitoring developments of COVID-19 and following recommendations from our local health departments and experts at the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO). The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has assessed the public health risk in Canada as low, however we take these measures very seriously and continue to communicate awareness and training procedures with our team to reinforce our sanitization, social distancing and safety procedures.

COVID-19 is spread through large liquid droplets when a person infected with COVID-19 coughs or sneezes. The virus in these droplets can enter through the eyes, nose or mouth of another person if they are in close contact with the person who coughed or sneezed. COVID-19 is not transmitted through particles in the air and is not something that can enter the body through the skin. 

The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to other respiratory illnesses, including the flu and the common cold. These symptoms include cough, sneezing, fever, sore throat and difficulty breathing. People infected with COVID-19 may experience little or no symptoms, with illness ranging from mild to severe. 

People who are contacts of a confirmed COVID-19 case, meaning they have been or could have been exposed to the virus, but do not have symptoms, are required to self-isolate. Self-isolation means staying home and avoiding situations where you could come in contact with others. Isolated individuals may NOT use any common areas or implements, including ice or pop machines, shared laundry facilities. 

Practice cough etiquette by coughing into your elbow or covering your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when you sneeze. Immediately dispose of used tissues and wash your hands. 

At all times you must maintain a physical distance of two metres from others. 

Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. Do not share food, drinks, utensils, cigarettes, vaping devices, joints or bongs.

Symptoms of COVID-19:
Employees and others showing symptoms of COVID-19 are prohibited from the workplace. This includes anyone who has had symptoms of COVID-19 in the last 10 days. Symptoms include fever, chills, new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, and new muscle aches or headache, anyone directed by Public Health to self-isolate. Anyone who has arrived from outside of Canada or who has had contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case must self-isolate for 14 days and monitor for symptoms.

RESOURCES:
For further information on preventing the transmission of COVID-19 please visit BC Centre for Disease Control 
To learn more about COVID-19, symptoms, how it spreads and prevention, please visit HealthLink BC 

LINK TO CURRENT COVID-19  TOFINO TRAVEL INFO

Travelling to Tofino During COVID-19 

In the coming weeks, as recommendations to avoid non-essential travel ease, the community of Tofino is looking forward to welcoming you back to this place of natural wonder and awe. 

We want you to know that we are committed to making sure your visit is a safe and healthy one – for you, our staff, and our residents. To that end, we are following all provincial and WorkSafeBC health and safety regulations. 

Please understand that the current COVID-19 threat remains fluid, with government regulations and health guidelines changing rapidly. We monitor provincial health updates closely to ensure both our visitors and residents remain safe. 

Tips to preparing for your visit:

Feel confident about your health

Your safety is our priority. We want our visitors to be confident that we’ve done our part to keep you safe and healthy during your stay. Our businesses have implemented rigorous sanitation, hygiene, and physical distancing practices in accordance with provincial and WorkSafeBC standards. 

We thank you in advance for your patience 

No one enjoys waiting. Unfortunately, our new health and safety practices will likely result in line-ups and slower service times than we’d like. We ask for your patience as we work hard to keep things moving as quickly as possible, while providing a safe and healthy experience for all our visitors.

Physical distancing 

It’s easy to stay 2m (6ft) apart on our expansive beaches but in other places, it’s a little more difficult. Please be respectful of others and use your best judgement to maintain distancing. On trails and sidewalks, walk single file and step to the right to allow others to pass safely.

Please: stay home if you’re sick

Limited health care facilities exist in Tofino.  Before you travel please take stock of your health. If you or anyone traveling with you has been sick in the previous week, or currently has flu-like symptoms, we ask you to reschedule your trip. We’ll be here to welcome you when you’re feeling better.

Reserve your accommodation 

Make sure to book your accommodation before your stay. Not all hotels, campgrounds, and lodging providers will be open to full capacity or accepting walk-ins.  

Bring your own PPE 

Both federal and provincial health officers now recommend the wearing of masks when physical distancing is difficult and continue to recommend frequent hand washing or sanitizing.

What’s Open

Businesses are opening daily, some with modifications.   Check here for a current list of openings.

Book your activities in advance

Our activity providers have adapted to maintain physical distancing, which means they will be hosting smaller groups on their tours. By booking in advance, you’ll ensure that you don’t miss out on a special experience.

Hot Springs Cove

Trips to the natural geo-thermal pools at Hot Springs Cove will be unavailable through June. Personal boats will also not be permitted.  Check with excursion providers for more information.

Highway 4 construction

Highway 4 between Port Alberni and the West Coast remains open, but travellers should expect delays throughout the summer due to ongoing construction around the east side of Kennedy Lake. Please check the Drive BC website for detailed road closure schedules prior to your visit.

Visiting First Nations 

Currently our local First Nations communities, including Esowista, Ty-Histanis, Opitsaht, Ahousaht and Hesquiaht are unable to welcome visitors.

Things change 

The current COVID-19 outbreak appears to be diminishing—but the situation remains fluid, with government regulations and health guidelines changing rapidly. If the threat escalates, our community will respond to comply with provincial health protocols. We ask our guests to remain flexible and prepared to change plans according to the situation.

Latest BC travel information and updates

Destination BC is the authority on travel in our province.  They provide know before you go facts and updates .

What to expect while you’re here:

What do I do if I am feeling ill?

If you are feeling ill use the COVID-19 online self-assessment tool at: https://bc.thrive.health/covid19/en or call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1.

What do I do if I am injured?

If you have been injured go to the Tofino Hospital at 261 Neill Street.   If you have respiratory symptoms call 250-725-4010 before visiting the hospital.

Remember to use hand sanitizer

Most businesses will provide hand sanitizer and request that you use it as you enter their premises. Hand cream will help to counter the effects of frequent sanitizing. 

Shop local—and help our small businesses thrive!

Tofino’s grocery stores and specialty shops can provision you with everything you need. There’s no need to bring supplies from home—shop local and give our small businesses a helping hand.  Please have only one person from your party enter the grocery store.

Visit our restaurants—but please make reservations when possible

In accordance with provincial government health guidelines, our restaurants will have limited seating throughout the summer. Make a reservation or order takeout to eat at outdoor seating areas, or at the beach. 

Activities to keep you enthralled

Immerse yourself and connect with the natural world.  Find information on whale and bear watching experiences,  tours, fishing, kayaking, hiking, surfing and SUP and much more at Tourism Tofino.

Check out our unique shops and arts scene

Tofino is home to a vibrant, eclectic art scene. Make sure to check out our numerous galleries, artist studios and unique shops, and take home a bit of the West Coast with you.

Hit the surf the safe way

Interested in trying the West Coast’s most exhilarating sport? If it’s your first time, we strongly recommended you take a lesson.  Lessons for all ages are provided.  You’ll not only learn how to stay up on your board, but you will learn important etiquette tips, as well as safety information about riptides and offshore currents. 

Parks and public spaces

While enjoying Tofino area parks and trails and our neighbouring Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, be sure to follow the signs in parking lots, on the trails, and at beaches. Be self-sufficient by bringing your own hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, garbage bags, picnic tablecloths and masks when recommended by health authorities. And please, make sure to maintain physical distancing on the beaches, trails, and facilities. 

Please respect various closures within Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.  Only select washrooms and trails will be open.  For up-to-date information, please visit the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve official website. 

Ocean safety

The ocean is a place of wonder. But it can also be a serious safety hazard for all ages. Learn how to keep yourself and your family safe on and around the water by being CoastSmart.

Single-use plastic free zone

Tofino residents are committed to live in a way that reduces our impact on the environment and we invite you to join us while you’re visiting.  Bring re-usable bags, water bottles and coffee mugs. 

Travelling from the US

The Canadian-US border remains closed.  US visitors should check www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca for border updates.

Helpful links

Tourism Tofino 

Trip planning, accommodations and activities

https://www.hellobc.com/what-you-need-to-know/ 

BC Travel Information  

BC Centre for Disease Control – COVID-19

Helpful info on current COVID-19 information, along with tips on how to keep yourself safe. 

Tofino Paddle Surf

COVID-19 Safety Plan 

Phase One

INTRODUCTION 

This document provides interim guidance for preventing the transmission of COVID-19 to Tofino Paddle Surf employees and guests. 

To limit the spread of COVID-19, the Provincial Health Officer has issued Orders that impact the tourism industry. These Orders outline conditions and provide specific direction regarding the services provided at Tofino Paddle Surf. This document will outline new measures put into place across all departments and will be revised as needed based on provincial and district direction. We will be following specific instruction from the District of Tofino and the Tin Wis Best Western Resort regarding our Phases.

This document applies to all employees. This document is fluid and will be updated as we progress in our reopening of Tofino Paddle Surf. 

GENERAL INFORMATION 

COVID-19 is spread through large liquid droplets when a person infected with COVID-19 coughs or sneezes. The virus in these droplets can enter through the eyes, nose or mouth of another person if they are in close contact with the person who coughed or sneezed. COVID-19 is not transmitted through particles in the air and is not something that can enter the body through the skin. 

The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to other respiratory illnesses, including the flu and the common cold. These symptoms include cough, sneezing, fever, sore throat and difficulty breathing. People infected with COVID-19 may experience little or no symptoms, with illness ranging from mild to severe. 

People who are contacts of a confirmed COVID-19 case, meaning they have been or could have been exposed to the virus, but do not have symptoms, are required to self-isolate. Self-isolation means staying home and avoiding situations where you could come in contact with others. Isolated individuals may NOT use any common areas or implements, including ice or pop machines, shared laundry facilities. 

Practice cough etiquette by coughing into your elbow or covering your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when you sneeze. Immediately dispose of used tissues and wash your hands. 

At all times you must maintain a physical distance of two metres from others. 

Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. Do not share food, drinks, utensils, cigarettes, vaping devices, joints or bongs.

Symptoms of COVID-19:

Employees and others showing symptoms of COVID-19 are prohibited from the workplace. This includes anyone who has had symptoms of COVID-19 in the last 10 days. Symptoms include fever, chills, new or worsening cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, and new muscle aches or headache, anyone directed by Public Health to self-isolate. Anyone who has arrived from outside of Canada or who has had contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case must self-isolate for 14 days and monitor for symptoms.

Employees who may start to feel ill at work:

Sick workers should report to first aid, even with mild symptoms.

Sick workers should be asked to wash or sanitize their hands, provided with a mask, and isolated. Ask the worker to go straight home. [Consult the BC COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool, or call 811 for further guidance related to testing and self-isolation.]

If the worker is severely ill (e.g., difficulty breathing, chest pain), call 911. Clean and disinfect any surfaces that the ill worker has come into contact with.

Practice diligent hand hygiene at all times by washing with plain soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 

GUEST INFO

Signage regarding social distancing, covid and hand washing etc will be posted both for customers and staff. Our You Tube Channel, Facebook page and your confirmation email also have videos to explain how- to’s and safety.

We request that you wash their hands regularly: at a minimum, before arriving to our shop. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer will also be provided in our indoor and outdoor areas.

Physical distancing of 2 meters, or 6 feet, will be maintained between staff and customers at all times.

Please be patient with us as we proceed with our safety precautions. Everything will be longer than usual wait times and rental/lesson coordination may take longer.

Participation requirements: 

We ask you to stay at home if you feel unwell or have an unusually high temperature. We will do the same.

You should be physically capable enough to handle their own surfboards without assistance. You must have basic swim skills. Until Covid 19 restrictions lift, if you are requiring special assistance and or are signing up a young child, please do not participate without a parent/guardian to act as a handler. 

Lesson Check-in/Waivers/Payment

We strongly recommend online bookings and payment for both rentals and lessons. Waivers need to be signed online or emailed to prior to arrival, if the booking was done over the phone or email. 

In event where this is not possible, we will take payment and sign waivers in a way that respects the safety of staff and clients, respects social distancing and adheres to Worksafe BC regulations. When you get to the shop, you can still book online at the and sign the waives. Every participant must sign a waiver.

Cash will be accepted, but not recommended. Please sanitize before handing us the cash. 

Payment and signing of waivers will be conducted under the plexiglass shield. If a you cannot tap for payment, please sanitize before touching the pen, paper, iPad, etc and staff will disinfect the equipment.

We request that you choose your wetsuits size and board choice when doing your online rental or lesson booking.

Maximum number of people in store/ physical distancing requirements: 2 metre physical distance between any 2 people is required at all times. 1 person employee in the back room at a time. 1 customer inside the shop at a time.

Lesson Preparation & Gear Handling:

Only 1 instructor will be preparing, handling gear and totes.

Wetsuit & Board Distribution:

Hands are sanitized then wetsuits/gear will be placed close to customer on the ground maintaining social distancing (suits in a tote with a lid on it). Customers will be explained how to put the wetsuit one handle and carry the board or kayak and go through a safety briefing. Our You Tube Channel, Facebook page and your confirmation email also have videos to explain how- to’s and safety.

Fitting rooms are closed until further notice. Please come prepared in your bathing suit! Customers are to change away from the shop into rental gear or on the deck for lessons, on designated areas (surfboards). Personal items are taken with you in the bin.

If a suit does not fit, you will be given a different wetsuit (maintaining social distancing) and you can place the wrong suit in a designated bin.

We request that gear is returned sand free.

We will have 1 employee at the wash station at a time.

Transportation:

Instructors who are not in the same household should take separate vehicles to the beach. Work vehicles should be sanitized after each shift once we are using these. Students should transport themselves to and from the beach. Keep sanitizer in the vehicle for when you are done loading gear at the end of the lesson. Sanitize before touching the vehicle.

Beach Lesson:

Beach theory will be conducted with social distancing measures in place. There will be increased focus on the fundamental/very basic skills like positioning on the board, catching a white water wave and prone/belly surfing, getting back on the SUP, etc to minimize the need for any physical assistance needed in the water.  

The Buddy system works well for physical distancing during lessons and tours.

Instructors who are assisting customers catch a wave should do so by using verbal and action cues. Social Distancing measures are to remain in place. If touching the customer’s equipment, the instructor must be wearing surf gloves. 

Water Skill and Safety:

Instructors will communicate with the group and individuals using verbal commands. Instructors who are assisting customers catch a wave should do so by using verbal and action cues. Social Distancing measures are to remain in place. If touching the customer’s equipment, the instructor must be wearing surf gloves. Instructors will choose appropriate areas for their students and be very vocal to keep the group organized. 

Whistle patterns for group communication:

1 long blast      :    Attention of students

2 short blasts   :    Attention of another instructor

3 long blasts    :    Emergency

The Buddy system works well for physical distancing during lessons and tours.

First Aid and Water Rescue:

The main recommendation from Lifesaving Society with our Lifesaving Certification is for us to approach any person as ‘Universal’ which means to assume that they are a covid-19 carrier.  We will ask family/group members to do hands on first aid. 911 is always called.

Wetsuit Returns on Lessons:

At the end of the lesson the customer will place their wetsuit in their respective totes and place near the back of the instructor’s vehicle while maintaining physical distance. Staff will sanitize their hands and practice good hygiene prior to and after handling totes. Sanitizer will kept in the vehicle for when they are done loading gear at the end of the lesson and before touching the vehicle.

Washing Wetsuit/Board/Totes:

Wetsuits will be returned free of sand and placed in the designated area near our washing station in the totes, with the lids on, by the customer. The wetsuits are agitated and soaked in a soap solution then rinsed in soapy water followed by fresh water. 

Boards and kayaks will be returned free of sand and placed in the designated area, by the customer. Customers will show the staff that there are no damages, then equipment will be sprayed with a bleach spray (Oxygenic Brand) on it and let it sit for a minute or two. 

After that we will will continue with our normal cleaning cycle.

Retail:

Retail items are not to be touched by the customer. Clerks must sanitize before touching retail items and handing to customer. No returns at this time. Fitting rooms are closed until further notice. Staff will sanitize hands before restocking shelves. Reusable bags/ bagging: Reusable bags are permitted.  We ask customers to wash reusable bags regularly.  Local shopping bag bylaws must be observed.

Personal Protective Gear:

Masks: Employees have reviewed the information on selecting and using masks and instructions on how to use a mask and understand the limitations of masks to protect the wearer from respiratory droplets. We understand that masks should only be considered when other control measures cannot be implemented. Employees know where to find information in the proper use of masks here.

Gloves: If we are touching the same board as the customer during lesson or tour, we will wear surfing gloves. Each staff has their own pair of wash gloves to wear when washing suits.

Rental Deliveries:

Prepaid deliveries only. We will maintain physical distancing when dropping off.

We will communicate by phone that your delivery has been made. Delivery vehicles must have sanitizers and follow vehicle cleaning protocols.

After Your Visit:

We encourage customers to reach out to business, if shortly after their visit they develop symptoms of or are diagnosed with Covid-19 for the business to trace contact with staff and other customers.

EMPLOYEE INFO

Physical distancing of 2 meters, or 6 feet, will be maintained between staff and customers at all times. This is our first line of defense. If physical distancing of 2 m (6ft) is not possible a mask must be worn. Masks and instructor’s surf gloves must be kept in the guide bag.

Cleaning: To disinfect a surface effectively, you must clean it first to remove surface dirt and debris. Any residue left on work surfaces and equipment may deactivate the disinfectant. Use soap or detergent as a cleaning agent.

Disinfection: After cleaning, apply a disinfectant to the surface. You need to leave the disinfectant on for a specified contact time to neutralize any remaining organisms.

Employees will wash their hands regularly: at a minimum, when they arrive, immediately before any breaks, and just before leaving. A hand washing station is located in our outdoor work area as well as the employee bathroom. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer will also be provided in our indoor and outdoor work stations, each guide bag and in the shop trucks.

We request that customers wash their hands regularly: at a minimum, before arriving to our shop. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer will also be provided in our indoor and outdoor areas.

We will clean high-touch elements between customers, and full cleaning on a regular basis. These include keys, doorknobs, light switches, computers, iPads, calculators, phones, window sills, hoses and taps, gear, bathroom area, including door knobs and plexiscreen. Office equipment must be disinfected repeatedly throughout your shift and any time switching tasks with another staff member. Office equipment must be disinfected at the end of each day. Do not allow the phone to touch your face when speaking into it.

Do not share tools, equipment (including pens, paper, phones, etc) without first washing/sanitizing hands and then disinfecting the equipment.

Vehicle use:

until further notice an instructor leaving Mackenzie Beach will be driving their own vehicles and responsible for vehicle insurance that covers them at work. Tofino Paddle Surf will be invoiced and can cover the extra cost and $5 per lesson trip. Invoices can be submitted monthly. Once shop vehicle are being used, they must be cleaned after every use (door knobs, steering wheel, dashboard, straps, seat)

Physical distancing of 2 meters, or 6 feet, will be maintained between staff and customers at all times.

We request that customers be patient with us as we proceed with our safety precautions. Everything  will be longer than usual wait times and rental/lesson coordination may take longer.

One staff will be responsible for checking guests in and one for returns.

Outdoor seating will be disinfected following every use once we have this.

Participation Requirements: 

We ask you to stay at home if you feel unwell or have an unusually high temperature. We will do the same.

Clients should be physically capable enough to handle their own surfboards without assistance. Clients must have basic swim skills. Until Covid 19 restrictions lift, clients requiring special assistance and young children are not advised to participate without a parent/guardian to act as a handler. 

Lesson Check-in/Waivers/Payment:

Contact with clients should be limited as much as possible and it is advisable to take payment online or over the phone & sign waivers online or emailed to prior to arrival. In event where this is not possible, we recommend taking payment and signing waivers in a way that respects the safety of staff and clients, respects social distancing and adheres to Worksafe BC regulations. Ask customers to book online at the shop and sign waivers online if possible. Cash will be accepted, but not recommended. Ask customer to sanitize before handing you the cash and do the same once you have filed the cash away. 

Payment and signing of waivers will be conducted under the plexiglass shield. If a customer cannot tap for payment, please request that they sanitize before touching the pen, paper, iPad, etc and do the same once it has been handed back. The equipment must then be disinfected.

Customers coming to pick up gear for rentals will be requested, online, to choose a wetsuit size and potentially a board choice.

Maximum number of people in store/ physical distancing requirements: 2 metre physical distance between any 2 people is required at all times. 1 person employee in the back room at a time. 1 customer inside the shop at a time.

Lesson Preparation & Gear Handling:

Only 1 instructor preparing, handling gear and totes.

 Wetsuit & Board Distribution:

Sanitize hands then place wetsuits/gear close to customer on the ground maintaining social distancing (suits in a tote with a lid on it). Customers will be explained how to put the wetsuit one handle and carry the board or kayak and go through a safety briefing. Our You Tube Channel, Facebook page and your confirmation email also have videos to explain how- to’s and safety.

Fitting rooms are closed until further notice. Customers are to change away from the shop into rental gear or on the deck for lessons, on designated areas (surfboards). Personal items are taken with them in the bin.

If a suit does not fit, place a different suit near the customer (maintaining social distancing) and have them dump the suit in the bin near the wash station.

We request that gear is returned sand free.

1 employee at the wash station at a time.

Transportation:

Instructors who are not in the same household should take separate vehicles to the beach. Work vehicles should be sanitized after each shift once we are using these. Students should transport themselves to and from the beach. Keep sanitizer in the vehicle for when you are done loading gear at the end of the lesson. Sanitize before touching the vehicle.

Beach Lesson:

Beach theory will be conducted with social distancing measures in place. There will be increased focus on the fundamental/very basic skills like positioning on the board, catching a white water wave and prone/belly surfing, getting back on the SUP, etc to minimize the need for any physical assistance needed in the water.  

The Buddy system works well for physical distancing during lessons and tours.

Instructors who are assisting customers catch a wave should do so by using verbal and action cues. Social Distancing measures are to remain in place. If touching the customer’s equipment, the instructor must be wearing surf gloves. 

Water Skill and Safety:

Instructors will communicate with the group and individuals using verbal commands. Instructors who are assisting customers catch a wave should do so by using verbal and action cues. Social Distancing measures are to remain in place. Instructors will choose appropriate areas for their students and be very vocal to keep the group organized. 

Emergency Whistle Protocols:

Two short blasts signal attention or alert to other surf instructors, lifesavers or lifeguards: This signal asks all to look to the source of the whistle. Lifeguards often use two short blasts (or hand signals) to indicate they must leave their stations to respond to a minor emergency or to speak with patrons, or to point out a potential or actual incident close to the other guard.

One long blast signals a major emergency. All students of that surf school should come out of water immediately. Any other surf instructors in the area may assist once all of their students are safely out of water should they have their own class.

Hand Signals:

The important consideration is that all surf instructors of all surf schools use and interpret the hand/arm signals consistently. Typical International hand/arm signals include:

“Assistance required” – raised waving arm (this goes with the two short whistle blasts), or can be raised waving by a student

“All clear or OK” – one hand/fist on head

“Look” – arm points to specific location (this goes with the two short whistle blasts)

“Move left/right” – arm points in left or right direction

“Stay where you are” – both arms horizontal

“Move away from shore” – two arms raised

“Emergency Evacuation Signal / Return to shore” – one arm raised (this goes with one long whistle blast)

First Aid and Water Rescue:

The main recommendation from Lifesaving Society with our Lifesaving Certification is for us to approach any person as ‘Universal’ which means to assume that they are a Covid-19 carrier. 

Act accordingly as if they are a carrier. We will ask family/group members to do hands on first aid and support vocally. If you must touch the patient for first aid scenarios, proceed as normal after applying appropriate PPE (Masks and gloves must be readily available in first aid kits.) Always call 911 first!!!!! You do not have to do CPR. As a lifesaver it is a choice. Compression only CPR is an option (loosely cover the patients mouth with something to keep their air and bodily fluids from coming in contact with you). Pocket masks do not protect the lifesaver from viruses, including Covid-19.

For lifesaving scenarios – use the LADDER approach, remember 911, and protect yourself first (PPE in first aid kit).

Wetsuit Returns on Lessons:

At the end of the lesson the customer will place their wetsuit in their respective totes and place near the back of the instructor’s vehicle while maintaining physical distance. Sanitize your hands and practice good hygiene prior to and after handling totes. Sanitizer will kept in the vehicle for when you are done loading gear at the end of the lesson and before touching the vehicle.

Washing Wetsuit/Board/Totes:

Wetsuits will be returned free of sand and placed in the designated area near our washing station in the totes, with the lids on, by the customer. The wetsuits are agitated and soaked in a soap solution then rinsed in soapy water followed by fresh water. 

Boards and kayaks will be returned free of sand and placed in the designated area, by the customer. Customers will show the staff that there are no damages, then spray boards, kayaks, paddles and totes with a bleach spray (Oxygenic Brand) on it and let it sit for a minute or two. 

After that we will can continue with our normal cleaning cycle.

(Note – DO NOT MIX BLEACH WITH VINEGAR as it will create toxic chlorine gas!!)

Retail:

Retail items are not to be touched by the customer. Clerk must sanitize before touching retail items and handing to customer. No returns at this time. Fitting rooms are closed until further notice.

Sanitize hands before restocking shelves. 

Reusable bags/ bagging Reusable bags are permitted.  Best practice is to post signage asking customers to wash reusable bags regularly.  Local shopping bag bylaws must be observed.

Personal Protective Gear:

Masks: Employees have reviewed the information on selecting and using masks and instructions on how to use a mask and understand the limitations of masks to protect the wearer from respiratory droplets. We understand that masks should only be considered when other control measures cannot be implemented. Employees know where to find information in the proper use of masks here.

Gloves: If you are touching the same board as the customer during lessons, wear your surfing gloves. Each staff will have their own pair of wash gloves to wear when washing suits. Please wash/sanitize your hands prior to putting them on. Only use the gloves with your name on them.

Rental Deliveries:

Prepaid deliveries only.

Maintain physical distancing when dropping off.

Communicate by phone that delivery has been made, instead of touching doorbells or knocking on doors.

Delivery vehicles must have sanitizers and follow vehicle cleaning protocols.

Follow-up Communications:

We encourage customers to reach out to business, if shortly after their visit they develop symptoms of or are diagnosed with Covid-19 for the business to trace contact with staff and other customers.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY

Tofino Paddle Surf is committed to providing a healthy and safe work environment for its workers and preventing occupational illness and injury. To express that commitment, we issue the following policy update on occupational health and safety. 

As the employer, Tofino Paddle Surf is responsible for the health and safety of its workers. 

Tofino Paddle Surf will make every effort to provide a healthy and safe work environment. We are dedicated to the objective of eliminating the possibility of injury and illness. 

Supervisors will be trained and held responsible for ensuring that workers, under their supervision, follow this policy. They are accountable for ensuring that workers use safe work practices and receive training to protect their health and safety. Supervisors also have a general responsibility for ensuring the safety of equipment and facility. 

Tofino Paddle Surf, through all levels of management, will cooperate with the Joint Occupational Health & Safety Committee and workers to create a healthy and safe work environment. Cooperation should also be extended to others such as contractors, owners, officers, and so on. 

The workers of Tofino Paddle Surf will be required to support this organisation’s health and safety initiative and to cooperate with the Joint Occupational Health & Safety Committee and with others exercising authority under the applicable laws. 

It is the duty of each worker to report to the supervisor or manager, as soon as possible, any hazardous conditions, injury, accident, or illness related to the workplace. Also, workers must protect their health and safety by complying with applicable Acts and Regulations and following policies, procedures, rules, and, instructions as prescribed by Tofino Paddle Surf. 

Tofino Paddle Surf will, where possible, eliminate hazards and, thus, the need for personal protective equipment. If that is not possible, and where there is a requirement, workers will be required to use safety equipment, clothing, devices, and materials for personal protection. 

Tofino Paddle Surf recognises the worker’s duty to identify hazards, and supports and encourages workers to play and active role in identifying hazards and to offer suggestions or ideas to improve the health and safety program. 

This policy has been developed in cooperation with the Joint Occupational Health & Safety Committee. 

COMMUNICABLE DISEASE AND/OR ILLNESS POLICY 

The purpose of this policy is to provide direction to employees of Tofino Paddle Surf in preparing for and responding to communicable diseases and illnesses that may threaten the safety of its employees and guests. 

For the purposes of this policy, ‘communicable disease or illness’ means an infectious disease or illness transmissible by an infected individual via direct or indirect means. 

For the purposes of this policy, ‘Tofino Paddle Surf Community’ includes: all current employees, contractors working on site who agree to submit to the processes under this policy, anyone residing on site, visitors and guests, and, anyone using Tofino Paddle Surf facilities. 

This policy applies to all members of the Tofino Paddle Surf Community. 

Management will provide members of the Tofino Paddle Surf Community with the best information possible and adopt prudent public health and health care practices. Tofino Paddle Surf will follow the medical advice and direction from the appropriate medical authorities (Regional Medical Health Officer, BC Centre for Disease Control, and, Health Canada). 

Individuals who have or suspect they may have a communicable disease or illness are required to report their concerns to the local health professionals and senior management at Tofino Paddle Surf. 

Tofino Paddle Surf will reasonably accommodate individuals affected with a communicable disease or illness without putting other members of the Tofino Paddle Surf at unnecessary risk. This may include excusing an employee from their duties with the intent that they quarantine themselves for a given period of time. 

Pursuant to the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, Tofino Paddle Surf will take all reasonable steps to protect the privacy of individuals who have a communicable disease or illness. In administering this policy, Tofino Paddle Surf will not disclose the identity of any individual who has a communicable disease or illness, except as authorized or required by law. Tofino Paddle Surf may be required to disclose personal information if there is a risk of significant harm to the health or safety of the public or a group of people or if requested by the medical health officer or designate under the Public Health Act. 

Tofino Paddle Surf will keep informed of the recommendations on travel from Health Canada and educate and inform the Tofino Paddle Surf Community as needed. 

Tofino Paddle Surf will follow any applicable WorkSafe BC requirements.

BLEACH, DISINFECTANTS & SAFETY

Look for recommended contact times on product instructions on store-bought disinfectants. Familiar brands such as Clorox, Lysol, Fantastik, Microban and Zep have specific products that will work against the COVID-19 virus. Please check the Health Canada’s list of approved products. If your product is not on the list, it has not been approved for this use. If store-bought disinfectants are not available, you can mix household bleach with room temperature water (do not use hot water) in specific ratios to disinfect areas in your home. Household bleach should be diluted. It comes in different concentrations so check your label first before you mix (see information in table below).

Some sanitizing solutions contain up to 70 percent alcohol and will release flammable vapours. Use these with caution, and don’t use them if there are ignition sources nearby.