OCNews

Starting on Monday, Feb. 28, OC students and employees will be able to pick up a COVID-19 rapid antigen test kit on campus in the following locations: 

• Kelowna - Students can pick up tests at the OCSU Pantry (Room A149, A building) from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Mon-Fri). Employees can pick up tests in the Bookstore (S building), 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. (Mon-Fri). Residents in Student Housing will be able to pick up their kit from the Student Housing office. 
• Penticton, Vernon, and Salmon Arm – Students and employees can pick up tests from the Regional Dean’s Office from 8:30 – 4:30 p.m. (Mon-Fri). Salmon Arm Trades students will be able to pick up kits directly from the Salmon Arm Trades facility. 
• Revelstoke - Students and employees can pick up tests from the Revelstoke Centre front office from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Mon-Friday).

Please be prepared to show your OC ID when picking up your test kit. This is to simply verify you are a student or employee; your information will not be tracked in any way. There is a limit of 1 test kit per person (each kit contains 5 rapid tests).  Please follow the Government of Canada's advisory around safe usage and handling of rapid tests. Keep rapid tests out of the reach of children and pets.

What you need to know about rapid tests at OC 

• If you are feeling unwell, please do not come to campus to pick up a test. These should be picked up at your earliest convenience, and used if you develop symptoms. Please follow the links below and see the BCCDC’s guidance on self-isolation for more information. 
• The rapid tests are an optional, time-limited initiative for post-secondary institutions for the testing of symptomatic employees and students. The tests are a self-management tool intended to support the continuity of on-campus learning, instruction and research.  
• Asymptomatic screening of employees and students is not recommended by public health and tests distributed to post-secondary institutions from the provincial supply are not to be used for asymptomatic screening programs. 

Guidance for event organizers 

A reminder that on Feb. 16, 2022, the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) updated the Gatherings and Events Order. 

• Restrictions on activities such as exercise, fitness and dance have been removed and adult sports tournaments now permitted.  
• The OC fitness facilities have re-opened to students and employees. Proof of vaccination is required. 
• Events that are social gatherings by nature still require proof of vaccination.  
• Any events that are related to academics or are educational in nature do not require proof of vaccination. If you are organizing an event and have a question, please do not hesitate to contact Occupational Health and Safety. 
• Mask requirements remain in effect for all indoor spaces at OC, including events. 
• Post-secondary institution graduation ceremonies and related events are excluded from proof of vaccination checking.