Further to the WSIAT’s previous announcement of July 16, 2020, the WSIAT has begun a limited and gradual resumption of in-person hearings, effective August 13, 2020 (please see the WSIAT website for the full announcement).
We are pleased to share the WSIAT Guidelines For the Gradual Resumption of In-Person Hearings During COVID-19, which outline procedures to protect the health and safety of all participants during in-person hearings during COVID-19.
The WSIAT Guidelines for the Gradual Resumption of In-Person Hearings During COVID-19 includes the COVID-19 Screening Questionnaire which must be completed the day of the in-person hearing and produced at the check-in for the hearing; the Consent to Contact Trace which is encouraged by public health agencies and is voluntary; and the In-Person Hearings Participant Information Sheet.
While public health restrictions remain in place due to COVID-19, the WSIAT will continue to focus on alternative hearing methods (teleconference, videoconference, or in writing) to provide ongoing access to justice. The limited resumption of in-person hearings will be focused on time-sensitive matters in which it has been determined that an in-person hearing is appropriate and necessary, as outlined in detail in the WSIAT Guidelines for the Gradual Resumption of In-Person Hearings During COVID-19.