B.C’s top doctor says there are some instances where it is okay for people to maintain one-metre of physical distance from each other instead of the two-metres as previously recommended.

Dr. Bonnie Henry though says two metres of distance is still safer, but notes it could be eased a bit in ‘controlled environments’ like workplaces and classrooms.

“Two metres is the ideal, we know, for uncontrolled environments, particularly with people we don’t know,” Henry said on Thursday. “But one metre is also good if you’re with the same group of people you know and see regularly, such as work colleagues, classmates.”

Henry adds that does not mean that everyone should reduce the amount of physical distancing they maintain, as it will depend on your own situation.

“If you’re parents are helping to care for your children, then you have to consider things like spending less time with friends outside your household or your family, because grandparents are more vulnerable to severe illness and we have to keep those external circles small,” added Henry.

“If you’re starting university this fall, most of your classes will be online, but help to keep the university and your community safe by avoiding in person social events with large groups of people.”

These updated guidelines come amid concerns from some teachers on whether there will be sufficient physical distancing in classrooms when children return to class next week.

Henry added that one metre is not enough distance for face-to-face interactions, but noted that rows of desks with children facing forward is an instance where less than two metres is acceptable.

“It’s a gradation. We know that two metres is better than one metre, is better than zero,” she added. “Close face to face contact for extended periods of time with anyone outside your household bubble should be avoided.”

The BC Teachers Federation is urging school districts to use new federal dollars to reduce class sizes and school density before kids return to class on September 10. SD73 is getting $2.6-million this month though the district isn’t sure how it will be spending the money yet.

When it comes to an office setting, Henry says it would apply if it is the same, small group of people in regular contact. Henry says workers should try to stay within their team and limit the time they spend talking to people in other parts of the office.

“With the same people that you are with on an ongoing basis, one metre is probably fine for most of your interactions, recognizing that really important piece that we have to protect us all, which is staying home if we’re ill ourselves,” she added.