Information for Insurance Agencies and Firms

What does being an ‘essential service’ mean for insurance businesses?


The provincial government, in consultation with BC’s Provincial Health Officer, has developed a list of essential services in response to COVID-19. Essential services are those deemed critical to preserving life, health, public safety and basic societal functioning.  Insurance is included on that list.

Essential services are being encouraged to remain open, provided they are able to follow the orders and guidance provided by the Provincial Health Officer to ensure safe operations and reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19.

As insurance is considered an essential service in BC, insurance agencies and adjusting firms should and are encouraged to continue to operate; however, agencies and firms must maintain a safe working environment in accordance with Worksafe BC guidance. Where agencies and firms are able to carry out insurance business remotely, there is no requirement that they keep their doors open to the public.  

This means that agencies should not be requiring their staff to interact with clients in a way that is considered unsafe and, as much as possible, agencies are encouraged to facilitate remote insurance business solutions, such as allowing agents and salespersons to work from home. If agencies need to conduct business from the agency’s office, agencies and firms are advised to look at individual circumstances and vulnerabilities—such as transportation to and from work, or shared workspace and equipment—and look for solutions to mitigate risk and facilitate remote work options as much as possible.

More information about WorkSafeBC guidance on preventing exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace, and other COVID-19 information and resources are listed in the resources below.

Should you have questions or concerns, please contact our Practice and Quality Assurance team at practice@insurancecouncilofbc.com or call 604-695-2008 for assistance. 

 
Resources
 

WorkSafeBC

Helping Employers Address COVID-19 in the Workplace
 

Government of British Columbia

List of COVID-19 Essential Services

COVID-19 Provincial Support and Information