New workplace Regulations require employers to notify WorkSafe Victoria immediately they become aware that one of their employees has received a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis.
Announcing the new Regulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, WorkSafe Victoria said they would assist it to reduce the risks to health and safety in the workplace which may arise from COVID-19.
“Timely notification of potential workplace transmission of coronavirus (COVID 19) is critical for effective management of related health and safety risks and the prompt investigation of potential breaches of employer duties,” WorkSafe Victoria said.
“Employers are required to notify WorkSafe immediately on becoming aware that an employee or an independent contractor or a contractor’s employee has received a confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) diagnosis and has attended the workplace during the infectious period,” it said.
“Self-employed persons are also required to directly inform WorkSafe immediately on receiving a confirmed coronavirus (COVID-19) diagnosis if they have attended the workplace during the infectious period.”
WorkSafe Victoria said failure to notify could lead to fines of up to $39,652 (240 penalty units) for an individual or $198,264 (1,200 penalty units) for a body corporate.
The new Regulations came into force on Tuesday (28 July) and are ro remain in place for 12 months, it said.
It said that to notify WorkSafe of a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, employers or self-employed persons should call the WorkSafe advisory service on 13 23 60.
