The number of inspectors at SafeWork NSW has been boosted and their powers increased in a bid to stop the spread of COVID-19.
SafeWork NSW has joined with Liquor and Gaming NSW and NSW Fair Trading to clamp down on venues flouting the State’s COVID-19 safety measures which come with fines and the potential to be shut down.
“In addition to Liquor and Gaming NSW inspectors, SafeWork and Fair Trading staff will also be conducting inspections …. bringing the total number of inspectors to more than 250,” SafeWork NSW said.
“Liquor and Gaming, SafeWork and Fair Trading inspectors are working in coordination with local Council environmental inspectors, Food Authority inspectors, NSW Health and NSW Police,” it said.
“This includes: 40 NSW Food Authority inspectors; 45 Liquor and Gaming NSW inspectors; 50 Public Health Officers; 68 NSW Fair Trading inspectors; 143 SafeWork NSW inspectors; 483 Local Government Environmental Health Officers; [and] NSW Police Officers.”
SafeWork NSW said inspectors enforcing Public Health Orders could conduct uniformed as well as undercover inspections.
Minister for Better Regulation, Kevin Anderson said premises where food and drink were consumed posed a higher risk for several reasons.
“Being indoors for longer periods while eating and drinking, and the potential for mingling are all factors that make COVID more communicable,” Mr Anderson said.
“Add alcohol, later trading hours and venue capacity, and the potential for transmission escalates,” he said.
Mr Anderson said having the right measures in place would ensure employees and customers were protected.
