Mining companies are to be asked to submit their COVID-19 workplace plans to Queensland Health as the Department steps up its efforts to protect fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workers during the Coronavirus pandemic.
Minister for Mines, Anthony Lynham said all State, Territory and Federal Resources Ministers had agreed the resources sector was essential to maintaining a strong Australian economy during the pandemic.
“However, public safety is our number one priority and we need everyone in the community, in business and in industry, to play their part,” Dr Lynham said.
He said the Chief Health Officer had asked resources companies to comply with all public health protocols to ensure workers and communities were safe.
“All mines in Queensland are being asked to provide a COVID plan that covers their workers,” Dr Lynham said.
“Companies will be required to submit specific plans to Queensland Health about interstate worker procedures,” he said.
The Minister said the plans should include infection control in kitchens and food preparation areas; suitable accommodation for self-quarantine; maintaining social distancing in camps, including for recreational activities, and limiting movement of workers from camps and into the broader community.
He said there should be no ‘hot bedding’ to limit contact between employees changing shifts; rooms should be cleaned thoroughly between uses, including changing and washing linen; and close contact during transport should be avoided, including reducing the number of people travelling on buses and aircraft.
