Coronavirus

Australia is monitoring an outbreak of respiratory illness caused by novel coronavirus (COVID-19). To uphold Australian work health and safety laws, employers must review and update infection control and hygiene policies, and ensure employees maintain proper hygiene in the workplace. Businesses must identify hazards in the workplace and their associated risks, and do what is reasonably practicable to reduce or eliminate those risks. Employers must also keep workers informed of the risks to health and safety, to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Employees who have had contact with anyone suffering from coronavirus should be directed to stay at home, remain isolated and not return to the workplace until they have been medically cleared to do so.

Employees who experience shortness of breath, fever, coughing, sneezing, sore throat, runny nose, headaches, nausea or any other symptoms of coronavirus should inform employers and seek medical attention. For the latest developments in the situation of coronavirus in Australia, see the Department of Health website (www.health.gov.au) and state-specific government health departments.

More information on what employers need to know about coronavirus and the workplace is also available at www.nscafoundation.org.au/news-item/3900/coronavirus-and-the-workplace-what-employers-need-to-know.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Daria Ni