The Mandatory Blood Testing Act (2006) of Ontario allows blood samples to be taken from an individual or “source person” when emergency service workers, or victims of crime, have been exposed to that person’s bodily fluids such as saliva or blood. The sample is tested for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
The law was put into place to make sure that those who are exposed can find out faster if they may be at risk of being infected with a disease. The law outlines specific procedures that must be followed to protect the rights of both the “source person” and the person who may have been exposed.
The Medical Officer of Health (MOH) for the Thunder Bay District Health Unit will receive and screen the application to make sure it meets the requirements of the Mandatory Blood Testing Act. The MOH will contact the source person to see if they are willing to voluntarily provide a sample. If the source person refuses, then the MOH may decide to forward the application to the Consent and Capacity Board for a final decision.
Designated Officers
Each service organization (police, fire, EMS, etc.) has a Designated Officer (DO). The DO receives reports from the Health Unit regarding possible exposures and reviews reports from workers from service organizations. The DO is also trained to provide counselling, guidance and support to exposed workers.
Forms
All forms can be found here:
Mandatory Blood Testing Act, 2006 Forms
Completed forms should be forwarded to the MOH at the Thunder Bay District Health Unit:
Office of the Medical Officer of Health (MOH)
999 Balmoral Street
Thunder Bay, ON
P7B 6E7
Forms may also be faxed to (807) 625-5973. This is a confidential fax number located in the office of the MOH.
Please do not email forms as confidentiality cannot be assured.
For Further Information
Call the Office of the Medical Officer of Health (MOH): (807) 625-5965
or toll-free 1-888-294-6630, ext. 5965