SafeWork NSW has released updated advice and a new guide for people conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) in relation to the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace.
SafeWork said the new guide, Coronavirus (COVID-19): Advice and guidance for NSW workplaces, was developed to assist PCBUs prepare for the spread of COVID-19 and comply with their obligations under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.
“While the number of confirmed cases and deaths in Australia resulting from COVID-19 remain relatively low compared to many countries across the world, the numbers have been increasing,” SafeWork NSW said.
“Simple precautions and planning can make a big difference,” it said.
“Action now will help protect you, your workers and your business.”
SafeWork said employers and workers in the health industry sector must comply with specific health directives issued by NSW Health and Commonwealth Department of Health.
It said people could catch the illness by breathing in airborne droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their face.
“All NSW businesses [should] take action to prepare and manage the risk of COVD-19 to workers and others at their workplace so far as is reasonably practicable,” it said.
SafeWork said businesses that had direct contact with the public should: review infection control policies and procedures; develop and implement safe systems of work that include directions and advice provided by health authorities; and monitor the COVID-19 situation as it developed.
It said the Commonwealth Department of Health had issued industry-specific information resources for sectors that service the general public such as health, education, travel, transport and hotels.
SafeWorkâs guide can be accessed at this PS News link.
