Construction resumed in Greater Sydney over the weekend (31 July) with new COVID-19 protocols introduced to keep workers and worksites safe.
Deputy Premier, John Barilaro outlined the roadmap forward and said the State had worked closely with industry to plan the reopening and create the construction COVID-19 Safety Plan.
Mr Barilaro said safety measures in place included controls on movements between sites; reduced contact between workers within sites; improved tracing capability; and a focus on encouraging workers to get vaccinated.
He said works in occupied premises, including residential homes, could also resume if there was zero contact between workers and residents.
“There will be a limit of up to two workers for indoor services and five workers for outdoor services, and works will only be possible where it is feasible for residents to vacate the area,” Mr Barilaro said.
“If contactless arrangements are not possible, work cannot go ahead,” he said.
“Unfortunately, construction will not resume in the eight LGAs of concern – Fairfield, Blacktown, Cumberland, Campbelltown, Canterbury-Bankstown, Liverpool, Parramatta and Georges River Local Government Areas.”
Mr Barilaro said businesses in those LGAs which were part of the construction supply chain were permitted to operate.
The Minister said construction supply chain workers had been added to the authorised workers list and were allowed to leave their local area for work, subject to meeting COVID-19 surveillance testing requirements.
“This includes workers engaged in manufacturing of construction materials, plant and components,” he said.
“I can also announce that as part of our plan to reopen construction, worksites will be able to operate on Sundays and public holidays for the remainder of the year, up until Christmas, to make up for any time lost,” Mr Barilaro said.
Further information on the construction COVID-19 Safety Plan can be accessed on the State’s COVID-19 information website at this PS News link.
