WorkCover Queensland has urged non-healthcare businesses in the State to access disposable respirators from alternate suppliers to protect workers while the Chinese manufacturers of the safety equipment are shut down.
WorkCover said this was an issue for workplaces which required disposable respirators to protect workers from exposure to hazardous dust generated from work processes.
“There are many Australian-based suppliers that source respirators from countries other than China,” WorkCover said.
“These brands of respirator are still being shipped to Australia and include, but are not limited to, 3M, Moldex, Honeywell, MSA, UVEX, Prochoice and Draeger,” it said.
“You should ensure you are getting the maximum use out of the respirators you are able to source.”
WorkCover said that while the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Queensland remained low, it was prepared should the local impacts change.
“We have the technology and capability to work remotely and we have the business continuity planning in place to ensure our customers’ needs will be addressed, and our business operations will continue,” it said.
“Any new claims in relation to COVID-19 will be determined and managed by a centralised team.”
WorkCover said it would work with workers, employers and treating providers to determine how workers had sustained the condition and make decisions in accordance with the legislation.
“We want to reassure all our customers and stakeholders that WorkCover is here to support you during this period of uncertainty,” it said.
