COVID19 Workplace Hygiene Policy Whats the need.

Under WHS law, all employers or businesses are required to manage the risk of COVID-19 to workers and others in the work environment.

Businesses and workers must:

1. Comply with national and state public health directions
2. Promote the simple but effective social distancing and hygiene measures
3. Raise any concerns about the risk of contracting COVID-19 immediately with the employer and work with them to identify solutions. Learn more
4. Monitor the extent of COVID-19 in your community and share advice from state and federal authorities regularly.

Assess the risk

All workplaces must assess the risk (in consultation with workers) and look for ways to minimise the spread of the virus.  These may include:

• ceasing non-essential work activities that involve close personal contact (less than 1.5m)
• implementing controls to reduce direct contact with workers and customers, including:
  • social distancing of at least 1.5metres (1 person per 4sqm indoors)
  • barriers to create space at counters, between workstations, seated areas etc.
  • modifying shifts and rosters to reduce peak periods
  • actively supporting flexible work arrangements, including working from home.

• Implementing controls to reduce environmental exposure, including:
  • inspecting and reviewing air conditioning and ventilation systems
  • increasing cleaning and disinfection of high traffic areas or shared surfaces
  • provide cleaning products and instruction for cleaning workspaces
  • provide instruction and amenities for personal hygiene and infection control

Once you decide what is reasonable and suitable for your workplace, you should be enacting a policy to ensure guidelines are understood, and being followed. 

Want to understand more about how to return to work safely? We have a comprehensive guide on the step you and your business need to take to get up and running again.

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