Free rapid COVID-19 test kits being offered to Newmarket businesses

The Newmarket Chamber of Commerce is providing businesses with a way to quickly screen their employees to help ensure workplaces are free of COVID-19.

The chamber rolled out its workplace self-screening program today, June 2, offering small businesses free rapid screening test kits that allow asymptomatic workers to self-test under the eye of a designated screening supervisor in 15 minutes or less.

Chamber president and CEO Tracy Walter said about 3,000 tests are going to businesses on the first day alone.

“We all want a clear, measurable and predictable plan for a safe return to a more normal life,” Walter said. “We need this for the physical, mental and economic health of our community. Looking for ways to get these businesses back to work in a safe way as soon as possible is something we support.”

The program is in partnership with the provincial and federal governments, and is rolling out at chambers of commerce across the province. It is open to businesses with 150 or fewer employees and is continuing indefinitely.

“I don’t think any of us know for certain how this is going to impact the long-term,” Walter said, adding demand could wind down as it has for asymptomatic testing at centres as cases decline. “But as long as they need these to be able to have continuity in their business and to confidently stay open, we’ll be here for that.”

Businesses doing the testing will be required to report results daily, with each employee testing about twice a week. Employees have the right of refusal to screening.

York Curling Club manager Jack Inouye was one of the first to pick up tests. He said he wanted to ensure workers are familiar with the process in case it is needed to reopen come September.

“It’s just great (the chamber is) doing this type of stuff if it helps us to prepare for the new season,” Inouye said.

Testing kits and further information is available at newmarketchamber.ca/rapidtests. You can send additional questions to Tyler Nakeff at 905-898-5900, ext. 228 or [email protected].

“Ultimately, it’s about reopening and getting the economy restarted,” Walter said. “Make it so that they and their employees can feel safe.”