Visit our COVID-19 Update page for the latest information from Durham Region Health Department.
Temporary foreign workers (TFWs) also known as migrant farm workers, are considered essential workers that come to Ontario to work in the seasonal agricultural sector. Housing accommodations for TFWs must be inspected by Durham Region Health Department prior to worker arrival.
Temporary foreign worker employers
Please contact Durham Region Health Department a minimum of four weeks prior to worker arrival to arrange an inspection of the seasonal housing accommodations.
Please note that all TFW housing accommodations must comply with all local building, fire and zoning requirements. It is strongly recommended that those building new bunkhouses, renovating existing bunkhouses, and/or renovating other buildings (e.g. residential homes) for the purpose of accommodating temporary foreign workers consult with thier local building department and fire department well in advance to ensure permits can be obtained and requirements met before the final inspection for worker approval is conducted.
Section 22 order related to employers of temporary foreign workers
Read the class order issued on February 6 and learn how this order impacts you.
Employer resources
Facts about... Migrant farm worker operations during COVID-19
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Workplace |
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Cleaning and disinfection logs |
Cleaning and disinfecting log sheet for migrant worker accommodations |
English COVID-19 posters |
Spanish COVID-19 posters |
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For temporary foreign workers
Durham Region Migrant Agricultural Worker Network
A group of volunteers, faith leaders, community residents, and service providers with a common interest in being good neighbours to agricultural workers in various agricultural communities in Durham Region. We host welcome events, health fairs, and social activities specifically for agricultural workers from participating Spanish-speaking and Caribbean countries throughout the year.
Visit the Durham Region Migrant Agricultural Worker Network website
Report a housing concern or complaint
All temporary foreign worker housing is inspected by Durham Region Health Department prior to worker arrival. If you have any questions or concerns about housing conditions, call us at 1-800-841-2729 or 905-668-2020 to speak to a public health inspector.
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