On November 15, 2023, the government of British Columbia implemented Regulation 235/2023 under the Emergency and Disaster Management Act, following the approval of Order in Council 617/2023. This regulation aims to enhance the framework for managing emergencies and disasters in the province by introducing several definitions and provisions that clarify procedures for critical incidents, specialized measures, volunteer involvement, and the responsibilities of protected employees.

The regulation establishes important definitions relevant to the Emergency and Disaster Management Act. It specifies that a “critical incident” includes the recovery of human remains, acknowledging this as a vital service during emergencies. Additionally, it defines “specialized measures” to include essential services such as search and rescue operations, emergency support services, and emergency radio communications, emphasizing the variety of actions necessary for effective disaster management. The regulation also clarifies the term “volunteer,” indicating that monetary compensation related to volunteering does not include honoraria, which helps ensure that individuals contributing to emergency efforts understand their involvement and its financial implications.

A significant aspect of the regulation is the authorization process for public safety providers. The provincial administrator is empowered to issue time-limited authorizations to individuals under section 30 (3) of the Act, with the provision that once the specified authorization period expires, it is automatically revoked.

The regulation further outlines who can request the deployment of volunteers during emergencies, specifically identifying coroners and individuals retained to act as coroners as authorized personnel for such requests. This clarification ensures that volunteer deployments are managed by qualified individuals, thereby enhancing coordination in emergency responses.

When a protected employee is informed of their deployment, they are required to provide written notice to their employer promptly. This notice must include essential information, such as the employee’s contact details, unique qualifications, the purpose of the deployment, and the expected duration of service. If the anticipated end date of a deployment changes, the employee must update their employer as soon as they are aware of the change. The regulation also specifies acceptable methods for delivering this notice, ensuring clear communication between employees and employers, which is crucial for managing workforce resources effectively during emergencies.

By defining critical terms, clarifying the roles of volunteers and public safety providers, and establishing notification protocols for protected employees, the regulation aims to improve efficiency in disaster management but also ensures that those involved in emergency responses are well-informed of their roles and responsibilities, reflecting a commitment to maintaining public safety and effective disaster management practices in the province.

British Columbia (235/2023) November 21, 2023