In line with ballooning case numbers the Victorian Government has changed the requirements to remove some (but not all) of the circumstances where the business needs to notify WorkSafe Victoria of a Covid infection in the workplace. This week’s Safety Highlight will explore these changes.
From 14/1/2022 the requirement to notify WorkSafe Victoria each time an employee (or contractor) is confirmed as a Covid positive case that was in the workplace during their infectious period, has been removed.
“It is important to note that this is not the only Covid notification requirement. While its removal does mean that most businesses will not be completing as many notifications to WorkSafe VIC there are still circumstances where the business has to report,” notes ACAPMAs Elisha Radwanowski.
Businesses are required to notify WorkSafe Victoria;
- If there is a case where someone gets Covid at work and has to go straight to hospital or dies.
- If there are five or more positive Covid cases at a single workplace in a week.
“Importantly, the changes do not change or remove the need for the business to manage the Covid risk at the workplace. Businesses must continue to keep up with the latest information, assess risk based on the changing information, implement mitigation policies, strategies and controls, and ensure that all systems and compliance is reviewed regularly,” continues Elisha.
For more information see; https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/coronavirus-covid-19
Here to help
Safety Highlights are things to consider, implement and watch out for in your business. They are provided as general information for you to consider and do not constitute advice. You should seek further advice on your situation by contacting your legal advisor. ACAPMA members can access resources and receive advice, guidance and support from the ACAPMA employment professionals via employment@acapma.com.au, it is free for members. ACAPMA Membership delivers this and more benefits, see https://acapma.com.au/membership/ for more information.
Published with permission from ACAPMA.
Source: https://acapmag.com.au/2022/01/safety-highlight-covid-reporting-changes-for-vic/
