Definition of Essential Worker

August 20, 2020

Question:
I have a query from a researcher working on the impact of COVID-19 on women: 

Does Statistics Canada had a standard definition of "frontline" or "essential" workers during this pandemic, or of the "caring economy"? If yes, what are the accompanying NAICS codes used in that data collection?

Answer:
We have no formal definition but here is what is being collected through the Survey of COVID-19 and Mental Health (which will be in collection in late fall):

• During the reference week, we asked the question, “were you considered an essential worker?”
• An essential worker is defined as an individual who works in a service, facility or in an activity that is necessary to preserving life, health, public safety and basic societal functions of Canadians.

However, this question does not necessarily connect to a specific set of industry codes according to NAICS.