Victoria Prepares Workplaces for a 'COVIDSafe' Reopening

The Victorian Government has committed to consult with industry, unions and community organisations on key issues such as workplace physical distancing, and face mask and hygiene rules, as it finalises plans to reopen the state.

According to Minister for Industry Support and Recovery Martin Pakula, discussions will focus on how COVIDSafe principles can be applied to ensure businesses survive, adapt and reopen safely.

Based on advice from public health experts, the consultation will centre on the six principles for safely reopening businesses:

• ensuring physical distancing, including following density requirements, making sure staff work from home wherever possible, limiting the total number of staff and customers in an enclosed area, and stopping carpooling
• wearing a face covering at all times in the workplace and ensuring full PPE is worn in high-risk settings
• requiring hygienic workplaces, with high-touch points regularly cleaned, staff regularly washing their hands, and hand sanitisers available for all staff and customers
• continuing to act quickly if staff become unwell by having a strict policy that supports them to stay home and get tested, even if they have mild symptoms. All places of work need to have a plan to act immediately if there is a confirmed case and records must be kept of all staff, customers and visitors.
• creating workforce bubbles to limit the number of staff who have prolonged and close contact with each other, for instance eliminating overlap in shift changes and reducing staff working across multiple sites
• avoiding enclosed spaces wherever possible, including the opening of doors and windows for airflow instead of relying on recirculated air, and moving breaks, meetings and catch-ups outside

Recognising there is no one-size-fits-all solution, the Government will tailor guidance to the needs of different industries.

“Workplaces will need to look very different as we find our ‘COVID Normal’. By working with business we’ll make sure that can happen practically and safely,” said Premier Daniel Andrews.

The Government will also be seeking feedback on the current worker permit system and childcare arrangements, and consulting with community support organisations on the impacts of social isolation on Victorians.

Based on the outcomes of these discussions and latest advice from health experts, Victoria’s reopening roadmap will be released on September 6.