The StaySafe COVID-19 Rapid Screening Pilot program is being launched in the region, with the initial goal to conduct 3,000 tests a week.
The announcement was made by the Ford government on Monday, in partnership with the federal government. The free rapid antigen point-of-care tests will be available to small and medium-sized businesses, so those businesses can test their employees.
"By expanding rapid testing to small- and medium-sized businesses and making it easier to administer, we will be able to keep people working and safe," Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, Vic Fedeli, said in a release. "These measures are essential to further protect Ontario's workforce as we work together towards a swift recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, a stronger and more resilient province."
The test will allow the person being tested to self-swab under the supervision of a trained person, which the government says will reduce administrative costs, be faster and more efficient.
Communitech, both local Chambers of Commerce and other business associations in the region are also involved with the program.
The StaySafe testing bus will be in a few locations this week.
Also details on locations in Cambridge and Waterloo. pic.twitter.com/AsDDMps3Wv
— Erin Anderson (@erinbailey_a) April 12, 2021
