CALGARY – Workers at one of the province’s largest commercial construction sites can now receive their first dose COVID-19 vaccine on-site with the opening of a dedicated immunization clinic at the Calgary Cancer Centre (CCC) construction project.
The clinic runs today, June 4, with the option for additional days if there is demand.
“This is another great initiative that adds to our successful vaccine rollout. It’s a credit to AHS and PCL, as well as the many other employers who have hosted clinics for their staff,” says Tyler Shandro, Minister of Health. “Initiatives like this help shut off sources of transmission, and they’ll help us meet and exceed our target of vaccinating 70 per cent of Albertans so we can move forward with our plan to be Open for Summer.”
The clinic has seven stations and a potential capacity of 200 shots per day. Approximately 1,200 people work at the site for the design builder, PCL Construction Limited, and its trade partners.
“PCL is dedicated to providing and maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for all,” says Toby Hendrie, Project Director, Calgary Cancer Centre, PCL Construction Management Inc. “This collaboration with AHS reflects our focus of working with partners to continuously improve our workplace environments. We are grateful for their shared commitment to safety.”
Dr. Nick Etches, Acting Zone Lead Medical Officer of Health, Calgary Zone, says workplace immunization clinics are an effective way to help improve access to vaccines at sites such as large construction projects.
“Like our expanded immunization capacity in northeast Calgary, this is a great example of how we are able to mobilize resources and improve access to critical public health services – in this case for those who work in an essential industry,” Dr. Etches says.
“Preventing or limiting outbreaks at large facilities, or where significant numbers of people must work together, can also help reduce community spread.”
Workplace-based COVID-19 immunization clinics were also held this week at the Calgary FedEx distribution warehouse and the Amazon warehouse in Balzac, Alberta.
AHS now offers 22 public immunization clinics in the Calgary Zone.
All eligible Albertans are encouraged to book their COVID-19 immunization appointment using AHS’ online booking tool, available at www.ahs.ca/covidvaccine, or by calling Health Link at 811.
COVID-19 vaccination is also available at many participating pharmacies as well as numerous family physician offices.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.