Continue reading on DataGuidance with:
Free Member
Limited ArticlesCreate an account to continue accessing select articles, resources, and guidance notes.
Already have an account? Log in
Create an account
Join our community for free to access exclusive whitepapers, reports, and regulatory information.
Newfoundland and Labrador: OPIC releases guide on how to communicate in an emergency
The Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of British Newfoundland and Labrador ('OPIC') released, on 16 March 2020, its guide on what to do and how to communicate in an emergency ('the Guide'). In particular, the Guide highlights the importance of maintaining standards regarding the privacy of information, even in the event of an emergency, such as the COVID-19 ('Coronavirus') pandemic. Furthermore, the Guide provides employers with guidance on data collection practices during an emergency pandemic scenario stating it would be reasonable for employers to ask employees calling in sick if their absence has any association with Coronavirus, whether they have been advised to self-isolate, and if they have a confirmed diagnosis.
In addition, the Guide states that privacy principles still apply in an emergency situation and organisations should, among other things, collect, use and disclose the minimum information necessary, avoid publicly identifying individuals unless absolutely necessary, and instead provide details such as location, time period impact and date to assist in identifying others that may have been exposed.
Send us your Feedback!
Please let us know what you think of DataGuidance! It will only take 60 seconds and help us make the site better for you.
