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Campus Safety

Maintaining health and safety on campus

This webpage provides pertinent information regarding health and safety at TAV College. If ever you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1

On this page:

  • Health Concerns
    • COVID-19
    • mpox
  • Campus Security
  • Emergency Procedures

Health Concerns

Preventing the transmission of viruses, infections, and other diseases is the responsibility of all stakeholders while on campus. Consult the list of current health concerns in the province of Quebec to learn about symptoms, risks, treatment, and prevention.

COVID-19

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, that began to spread around the world in early 2019.

Current Status

Remain Vigilant

Wearing a mask inside TAV College buildings as well as in several enclosed or partially enclosed public places is no longer mandatory.

However,

  • Wearing a mask is recommended for vulnerable people and older adults.
  • Wearing a mask is recommended for individuals returning to campus after the period of isolation if you have contracted COVID-19.
  • Disinfecting your hands when entering TAV College’s buildings is still recommended.
  • If you have have tested positive, stay home, do not see others, self-isolate, and follow the instructions below.
  • Now, a person with symptoms (excluding those requiring exclusion such as fever) who has a negative first rapid test is allowed to return to the school setting pending the completion of the second test within 24 to 36 hours.

Updated: September 13, 2022

Symptoms, transmission and treatment

Symptoms

It is impossible to distinguish between COVID-19 and the flu based solely on symptoms, because they are too alike. A screening test must be performed to identify the presence of COVID-19. Due to an increase in the number of infections, PCR testing at the screening clinic is now reserved for certain higher priority clients. If you are not in a priority group, it is recommended that you do a rapid test at home. If you are unable to get rapid tests, self-isolate in accordance with Instructions for people with COVID-19.

The following symptoms apply to everyone, including babies aged 6 months and older. For babies aged under 6 months, call Info-Santé 811 or see a healthcare professional, if your child has symptoms, including a fever.

One of the following symptoms:

  • Fever:
    • from 6 years old: 38.1 °C (100.6 °F) and over (oral temperature)
    • 6 months to 5 years old: 38.5 °C (101.3 °F) and over (rectal temperature)
  • Sudden loss of smell with no nasal congestion, with or without loss of taste
  • Cough (new or worsening)
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sore throat

At least two of the following symptoms:

  • Runny nose nasal congestion (stuffy nose) for no known reason
  • Head ache
  • Profound fatigue
  • Muscle aches (not related to physical exertion)
  • Significant loss of appetite
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Stomach ache
  • Diarrhea

When in doubt, call Info-Santé 811 or see a healthcare professional.

Consult the Government of Quebec’s webpage for full details: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/health-issues/a-z/2019-coronavirus/symptoms-transmission-treatment

Protocol for interns working with patients

In conformity with order no. 2022-033, of the Public Health Act, students and trainees, whose activities involve direct contact with patients or with other stakeholders who have direct contact with patients, must be adequately protected against COVID-19. They must send proof that they are adequately protected to the College.

Protocol for students

Wearing a mask inside TAV College buildings as well as in several enclosed or partially enclosed public places is no longer mandatory. However:

  • Wearing a mask is recommended for vulnerable people and older adults.
  • Wearing a mask is recommended for students returning to campus after the period of isolation if you have contracted COVID-19.
  • Disinfecting your hands when entering TAV College’s buildings is still recommended.
  • If you have tested positive, stay home, do not see others, self-isolate, and follows the instructions below.
  • If someone in your surroundings has or has symptoms of COVID-19, stay home, do not see others, self-isolate, and follows the instructions below.
  • Now, a person with symptoms (excluding those requiring exclusion such as fever) who has a negative first rapid test is allowed to return to the school setting pending the completion of the second test within 24 to 36 hours.

Throughout the semester

During midterm and final exams

  • If you have tested positive in the days before a midterm or final exam:
    • Do not come to the College.
    • Inform your teacher(s) and program coordinator as soon as possible.
    • Provide proper documentation of your situation (doctor’s note, positive test result, etc.) to your program coordinator by Mio on Omnivox.
    • Stay home and follow the recommended self-isolation instructions: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/health-issues/a-z/2019-coronavirus/self-isolation
    • Exams will be deferred to a later date if proper documentation was submitted on time.

 

Protocol for staff

Wearing a mask inside TAV College buildings as well as in several enclosed or partially enclosed public places is no longer mandatory. However:

  • Wearing a mask is recommended for vulnerable people and older adults.
  • Wearing a mask is recommended for individuals returning to campus after the period of isolation if you have contracted COVID-19.
  • Disinfecting your hands when entering TAV College’s buildings is still recommended.
  • If you have tested positive for COVID-19, do not come to the College, self-isolate, and follows the instructions below.
  • Now, a person with symptoms (excluding those requiring exclusion such as fever) who has a negative first rapid test is allowed to return to the school setting pending the completion of the second test within 24 to 36 hours.

Throughout the semester:

 

Become vaccinated

Free vaccine appointments against COVID-19 can be made online through https://portal3.clicsante.ca/

Simian (M) pox

Simian pox, commonly known as “mpox”, is a disease caused by a virus called simian orthopoxvirus. Currently, transmission is mainly through contact with an infected person. According to Santé Montreal, the disease began to spread in the region of Montreal as of May 2021.

Current Status

Remain Vigilant

According to Santé Montreal, since May 12, 2022, Montreal public health is investigating cases of oral and genital ulcerations linked to mpox on the island.

The infection spreads through close, prolonged contact. The incubation period is usually short (5 to 7 days), but can last up to 21 days, until all skin lesions have crusted over. In most cases, the illness disappears on its own in 2 to 4 weeks. Very rare cases with serious complications can occur, however.

Currently, men and people part of the Montreal GBTQ (gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) communities are the most at risk of contracting the virus.

Symptoms and transmission*

Symptoms

In the current epidemic, lesions are observed on the skin, particularly on the genitals, anus, face, torso, or extremities. These symptoms may be accompanied or preceded by:

  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Fatigue/Lack of energy
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Night sweats

The lesions, which may resemble those seen in syphilis, herpes, chickenpox, and shingles infections, are flat at first, then fill with fluid before forming a scab that dries up and eventually falls off. Typically, symptoms last 2-4 weeks and go away on their own. In very rare cases serious complications may occur.

The infectious period

From the onset of symptoms to the complete healing of lesions.

Transmission mode

The disease can be transmitted by:

  • Body fluids (saliva/droplets and possibly blood, urine, and semen)
  • Lesions (ulcers and/or scabs)

Transmission can occur through close and prolonged direct contact from person to person, for example:

  • When parties share the same residence
  • During pregnancy from the pregnant person to the fetus
  • During sexual contact (including oral contact, with or without penetration).

Transmission can also take place by indirect contact in collective spaces such as, for example, laundry rooms, changing rooms, and student residences:

  • When an infected and/or symptomatic person (especially in the presence of lesions or ulcers or scabs) touches objects (clothing, bedding, toilet seat, couch, electronic devices, surfaces, etc.) and another person is in contact with contaminated objects.

Therefore, anyone can contract and transmit the infection, regardless of their:

  • Sex
  • Race
  • Gender or
  • Sexual orientation

*Information provided by the CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Regional Public Health Department, Youth sector 0-25 years old.

Protocol for students and staff*

For people exposed or having been in contact with a case, the recommendations are to:

  • Monitor your symptoms for 21 days after the last risky exposure;
  • Obtain a vaccination preferably within 4 days of exposure to prevent infection and up to 14 days to reduce the severity of illness;
  • If you develop symptoms compatible with mpox, consult a doctor, avoid contact with people at risk of complications (children, pregnant people, immunocompromised people), cover your lesions, and wear a medical mask

The key is to communicate and quickly consult a health professional to take the necessary actions depending on the situation. Consult the section What to do after close contact with a suspected case, a confirmed case, or in the event of symptoms on the Sante Montreal website:

https://santemontreal.qc.ca/population/fh/actualites/nouvelle/ce-quil-faut-savoir-sur -simian-pox-in-montreal/ 

 

*Information provided by the CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l’Île-de-Montréal, Regional Public Health Department, Youth sector 0-25 years old.

Become vaccinated

The mpox vaccine reduces or prevents symptoms.

Currently, the vaccine is offered to:

People who, in the past 14 days, have had:

  • Direct (skin-to-skin) contact with someone who has mpox (confirmed or probable case);
  • Direct contact with objects or bedding potentially contaminated with the mpox virus, at a GBT (gay, bisexual, transgender) event or social gathering where there is sexual activity;
  • Physical contact at less than a meter with someone who has mpox (confirmed or probable case), when not wearing a mask and for at least 3 hours (total over a 24-hour period).

To gay, bisexual, heterosexual, pansexual or queer men, and transfeminine, transmasculine, two-spirit, non-binary, or gender non-conforming persons who have sexual contact with at least one male partner in  Montréal:

  • Other than a single regular partner;
  • At a GBTQ event or social gathering where there is sexual activity;
  • In exchange for money or other goods and services (given or received);

Workers and volunteers at a GBTQ+ event or social gathering in Montréal where there is sexual activity:

  • People who trade sexual services for money, goods, or services (sex work).

IMPORTANT

The 2nd dose is reserved for immunosuppressed individuals and only with a prescription from a doctor. People living with HIV are considered to be immunosuppressed when their CD4 cell count is below 500/mm3.

  • The interval between the 1st and 2nd dose is 28 days
  • For individuals previously diagnosed with MPox (laboratory-confirmed case), vaccination is not necessary. Natural infection provides sufficient protection against reinfection.

The vaccine can be administered only to individuals who do not have symptoms.

Book a vaccine appointment online: https://portal3.clicsante.ca/

Campus Security

Campus security is located at the front desk of building C. If you are in an emergency or health emergency situation, call campus security or 9-1-1 right away.

Telephone: 514-731-2296 ext. 0

Emergency procedures

In the event of an on-campus emergency, knowing the correct procedures could save your life and that of those around you.

If you see a fire in the building

  • Remain calm.
  • If the fire is small and you can do so safely, locate a fire extinguisher and put out the fire.
  • If the fire is large and spreading, quickly locate and pull the fire alarm and begin to follow the Fire Alarm Evacuation procedure (see below).

Fire alarm evacuation

When you enter any of our campus buildings, it is always a good idea to locate:

  • The fire evacuation plans on the walls.
  • Fire extinguishers (on each floor).
  • Alternative stairwells (one at the end of each hallway).

If the fire alarm sounds:

  • Stop what you are doing and immediately begin to exit the building using the nearest and safest stairwell.
  • Avoid using the elevator(s).
  • Walk in a calm and orderly fashion.
  • Go to the emergency gathering point (see below) and wait for further instructions.

If there is a presence of smoke:

  • Remain calm; do not yell or panic.
  • Get as low to the ground as possible.
  • If possible, cover your mouth with a face mask or piece of fabric.
  • Locate your nearest exit.
  • If the door to the room you are in is closed, lightly touch the doorknob before attempting to open it (if there is a fire on the other side of the door, the doorknob will be hot to the touch).
  • If you are able to safely exit the room you are in, remain low to the ground, search for emergency exit signs and exit the building using the nearest and safest stairwell.
  • If there is a fire on the other side of the door, attempt to call for help or use your cellphone to call 9-1-1. Do not open the door as the fire will spread into the room.

EGPs (Emergency gathering points):

  • If there is an evacuation of buildings A or B, exit and meet at the Shell Gas Station parking lot and await further instructions.
  • If there is an evacuation of building C, exit and meet at the vacant parking lot beside the building and await further instructions.
  • Once all individuals have evacuated the building, all teachers must use their attendance sheet to determine if any students are still in the building. If a student is suspected to still be in the building, it must be reported to the TAV College Emergency Coordinator immediately.
  • In the event of a fire emergency, avoid gathering in front of the campus building to allow first responders the space to carry out their duties.

TAV College Emergency Coordinator:

  • Eli Meroz, Director of Studies

 

Physical or sexual violence

  • If possible, try to not escalate the situation.
  • Escape the situation as soon as possible.
  • If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or locate the nearest staff member.
  • Report the incident to the Sexual Violence Resource Counsellor.
  • Talk to a friend or family member.
  • Seek the help of a professional.

Armed individual*

If an armed individual enters the building or your vicinity and you cannot safely exit the building:

  • Grab anyone else in your vicinity and go to the nearest room or classroom with a lockable door.
  • Shut off the lights.
  • Close and lock the door.
  • Sit in an area of the room that is not visible from the room’s door window. If possible, hide behind a large object.
  • Put your cell phone on silent. Do not attempt to make a phone call in the event that the armed individual is nearby and listening.
  • Turn off any source(s) of noise.
  • Remain quiet and calm and wait until an officer of the police department or a member of TAV’s senior management opens the door using the master key.
  • Do not open the door for anyone as the armed individual could impersonate a police officer or trusted staff member.

 When law enforcement arrives:

  • Remain calm, and follow officers’ instructions.
  • Put down any items in your hands (i.e., bags, jackets).
  • Immediately raise hands and spread fingers.
  • Keep hands visible at all times.
  • Avoid making quick movements toward officers such as holding on to them for safety.
  • Avoid pointing, screaming, and/or yelling.
  • Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating, just proceed in the direction from which officers are entering the premises.

If you are able to safely exit the building:

  • Immediately call 9-1-1 and report an active shooter situation.
  • Try to remain calm and provide the 911 operator with
    • The location of the situation
    • Your name

and if possible,

    • The number of armed individuals
    • The description of the armed individual(s)
    • The number of potential victims still inside the building

*Portions of this procedure were provided by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

EGP (Emergency gathering points)

Emergency gathering points

If there is an evacuation of buildings A or B, exit and meet at the Shell Gas Station parking lot and await further instructions.

If there is an evacuation of building C, exit and meet at the vacant parking lot beside the building and await further instructions.

Note

These procedures are not meant to cause anxiety. Emergency situations, such as the ones listed above, are rare, however, it is possible that they may occur. With that said, it is crucial that all members of our community are aware of the proper procedures to take in any emergency event.

Updated: December 29, 2022

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