Learn about rapid antigen testing and find out if your organization is eligible to access free rapid antigen tests from the government.
Overview
The Provincial Antigen Screening Program (PASP) provides free rapid antigen tests to high-risk communities, organizations and workplaces. Check your eligibility and apply below.
The program is available to eligible organizations that are open and require people to be physically present on site.
What you need to know before you apply
The Provincial Antigen Screening Program provides organizations access to rapid antigen tests that add an additional safety measure to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace.
A rapid antigen test is an easy-to-use point-of-care test that looks for proteins from the COVID-19 virus and does not require shipping a specimen to a lab for processing. Results are available in 15 to 20 minutes.
Rapid antigen tests provided through PASP are available for use by employees and other identified groups (for example, patients, essential caregivers, post-secondary students), but are not to be used to screen customers/patrons or the general public.
Program requirements
Organizations taking part in the PASP are required to:
- agree to the program terms and conditions
- review the Provincial Testing Guidance (PDF) and training materials
- order their free rapid antigen tests from the distribution partner responsible for their sector
- properly handle and dispose of used tests
Anyone who is “trained” can perform a test
Rapid antigen tests can be performed anywhere (i.e., on-site at the place of employment, or at home) by a person on themselves, a health professional, or any trained individual. Any individual is considered trained when they have consulted the appropriate training materials.
Review testing guidance and training resources
For more information review:
- About the Provincial Antigen Screening Program (PASP)
- The appropriate rapid antigen testing training materials and video
- Provincial Testing Guidance (PDF)
- COVID-19 workplace safety plan guidance
Continue to use other prevention methods
Rapid antigen testing works together with other COVID-19 infection prevention methods. Once testing is introduced, continue to use PPE, wash hands and practice appropriate distancing.
Safely dispose of hazardous waste
Waste generated from rapid antigen tests is considered hazardous under the Environmental Protection Act. Review Safe handling and management of rapid antigen COVID-19 testing waste to learn about requirements and exemptions to help businesses to safely dispose rapid antigen tests. Individuals testing at home should consult their municipality to determine if rapid antigen test waste can be disposed of with household garbage.
Isolate if you get a positive rapid antigen test
If you test positive using a rapid antigen test, it is highly likely you have COVID‑19. You should isolate and follow the appropriate guidelines.
You do not need to get a PCR or rapid molecular test to confirm a result from a rapid antigen test.
Use your free tests ethically
Any rapid antigen test that is provided free of charge by the government is not to be re-distributed or re-sold under any circumstance, nor are sites allowed to charge individuals for rapid antigen tests.
Check your eligibility and apply
Organizations that choose to buy tests privately should use them in accordance with Provincial Testing Guidance.
As well, the general public can get free rapid antigen tests for at-home use at participating pharmacy and grocery locations, while supplies last, and at local public health units.