CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) WORKPLACE POLICY
________ (ACN................................................) ("Employer")
Effective Date: ________
(1) INTRODUCTION
At ________, our first priority is, and always should be, the health and wellbeing of our staff and of those around us. This is particularly relevant in the time of the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19).
In addition to any other workplace policies which we may have implemented, and in addition to any obligations which we may have under applicable workplace health and safety laws or regulations, we are implementing this Coronavirus (COVID-19) Workplace Policy (this "Policy"), in order to address the effects of the Coronavirus in the workplace.
Throughout this Policy we may refer to ________ as the "Employer" or using terms such as "us", "we" or "our".
This Policy is intended to serve as a guide and does not create any contractual obligation on any party.
The Employer reserves the right to modify the policies, procedures and other provisions contained in this Policy.
(2) SCOPE
(a) This Policy applies to all employees of ________ ("Employees").
(b) All Employees are expected to familiarise themselves with this Policy and to comply with it.
(3) DURATION
This Policy shall remain in effect until such time as determined by us.
(4) WE ALL NEED TO DO OUR PART
We all have a responsibility to do our part in tackling the Coronavirus. In order to help reduce the risk to yourselves, your coworkers, your families, and the rest of the community, please familiarise yourself with this Policy, and make sure that you and your coworkers comply with this Policy.
(5) COMMON SYMPTOMS OF CORONAVIRUS
(a) It is important to remember that there are several Coronavirus variants in circulation now, and some of them have different symptoms.
(b) It is also important to remember that even if you have been vaccinated, you may carry the Coronavirus.
(c) The Coronavirus can affect people in a variety of ways.
(d) Unless you are medically trained, you are not expected to diagnose anyone.
(e) Some common symptoms of the Coronavirus include:
(I) fever.
(II) coughing.
(III) sneezing.
(IV) tiredness.
(V) aches and pains.
(VI) sore throat.
(VII) diarrhoea.
(VIII) conjunctivitis.
(IX) headaches.
(X) loss of taste or smell.
(XI) skin rash, or discoloured fingers or toes.
(XII) headache.
(XIII) runny nose.
(XIV) difficulty breathing.
(XV) shortness of breath.
(XVI) chest pain or pressure.
(XVII) loss of speech or movement.
(f) This list is not exhaustive so people may display other symptoms instead of or in addition to those symptoms listed above.
(g) Symptoms may also differ depending on whether a person has been vaccinated, and how many doses they have had.
(h) Some people display mild symptoms and may recover without the need for any special medical treatment.
(i) Other people may display more serious symptoms.
(j) People with underlying disease, illness or medical conditions are more likely to suffer serious symptoms.
(k) On average it takes 5-6 days from when someone is infected with Coronavirus for symptoms to appear, but it can take up to 14 days. This means it is possible for someone to spread the Coronavirus even if they are not displaying any symptoms.
(6) NATIONAL CORONAVIRUS HELPLINE
If information or advice is required, contact the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. This operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
(7) EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
(a) If emergency medical assistance is required, call 000.
(b) If a person is only displaying mild symptoms and is otherwise healthy, then it may not be necessary to call 000 and they should manage their symptoms at home.
(8) YOU MUST KEEP US INFORMED
(a) If you think you may have been affected by the Coronavirus, then it is your obligation to keep us informed. You must immediately let us know if:
(I) you have suffered flu-like symptoms at any time since the beginning of 2020.
(II) you have been exposed to someone who might be infected with the Coronavirus (for example, if you live with someone who has recently suffered flu-like symptoms).
(III) for any other reason, you think you might be at risk of infection.
(b) Please contact a manager or supervisor to discuss any of these matters.
(9) LOOK OUT FOR EACH OTHER
(a) Now is a time for us to come together and show our support for one another. Many Australians are facing additional pressures right now, and small acts of kindness can go a long way.
(b) We need to work together, in a positive manner, to keep on top of our individual obligations, such as our obligations in relation to hygiene, cleaning and disinfection.
(c) It is OK to remind a coworker about these obligations. It is not OK to engage in bullying, harassment, or discrimination, even if it relates to these obligations.
(d) Please remind yourselves of the terms of our ________.
(e) Please look out for one another, and if you have any concerns about bullying, harassment, or discrimination (whether or not related to the Coronavirus), if you require support, or if you want a confidential discussion, please get in touch.
(10) AVOID MISINFORMATION
(a) A lot of misinformation is being circulated in relation to the Coronavirus through social media and other channels. While it is a situation that we all need to take seriously, there is no reason to panic.
(b) The sharing of misinformation can lead to confusion and can increase the risk of spreading the Coronavirus.
(c) It can be hard to detect misinformation, as it often looks legitimate.
(d) We will be paying close attention to the expert advice on this matter, in particular, that which is published by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and we encourage all Employees to do the same.
(e) Please be careful to avoid misinformation, and make sure you do not share misinformation.
(f) If you are unsure about whether certain information is legitimate or not, or you are unsure about where it originated from, do not share it.
(11) BE PROACTIVE
(a) This Policy provides some general guidance regarding how we intend to handle the challenges posed by the Coronavirus. However, this Policy is not exhaustive.
(b) We request that you proactively work to help keep the Coronavirus out of our workplace.
(c) If you notice something that needs to be done, then please do it. For example, if a bottle of sanitiser is empty, please see that it is replaced immediately instead of waiting for somebody else to do it.
(d) We welcome your feedback so if you notice things that we could do better, please speak to a manager or supervisor.
(12) IF YOU ARE UNWELL
We ask that if you are feeling unwell, please stay away from the workplace, and please let us know immediately. We will handle your concerns confidentially, we will support you, and we will work with you to develop a plan.
(13) IF YOU MAY HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO CORONAVIRUS
If you have been exposed to the Coronavirus, then in addition to keeping us informed, you must:
(a) take all reasonable steps to avoid the risk of spreading the Coronavirus to your coworkers or to any other people.
(b) stay away from the workplace and from any coworkers or customers until directed otherwise by us.
(c) undertake mandatory isolation in accordance with Australian Government advice, for a minimum of seven days, or until otherwise advised by a medical professional.
(d) not return to the workplace until directed by us that you may do so.
(14) CARING FOR DEPENDANTS
(a) If you require time away from work to care for a dependant (such as a child or elderly relative) due to the Coronavirus, please speak to us. We will strive to accommodate your needs.
(b) If you are at risk of exposure to the Coronavirus as a result of caring for a dependant, you must:
(I) take all reasonable steps to avoid the risk of spreading the Coronavirus to your coworkers or to any other people.
(II) stay away from the workplace and from any coworkers or customers until directed otherwise by us.
(III) undertake any mandatory isolation as specified in official Australian Government advice, or until otherwise advised by a medical professional.
(IV) not return to the workplace until directed by us that you may do so.
(15) HOW WE WILL SUPPORT YOU
(a) If you think you have been exposed to the Coronavirus then we will support you in the following ways:
(I) we will handle your concerns confidentially.
(II) in the event that you need to spend time away from work, then you may be able to use sick leave, carer's leave, or annual leave, so that you can continue to be paid through this period.
(III) if sick leave, carer's leave, or annual leave is not available, then you may be required to take unpaid leave.
(IV) if the nature of your work permits, we may allow you to work from home.
(b) If you have questions or concerns about your leave entitlements, then we will be happy to discuss these with you.
(c) If you require support or have any concerns, please contact a manager or supervisor for a confidential discussion.
(16) MEDICAL CERTIFICATES
We are supportive of all Employees exercising caution in relation to this matter, and will not require you to provide a medical certificate to support any time away from work. We will do this in order to minimise the strain on medical resources and to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.
(17) IF SOMEONE AT THE WORKPLACE IS SUSPECTED TO HAVE CORONAVIRUS
(a) If someone has or is suspected to have the Coronavirus, or if they are suspected to have been exposed to it, then they should not be at the workplace.
(b) Nevertheless, it is possible that someone may develop symptoms of the Coronavirus while at the workplace, or may reveal information which suggests that they may have been exposed to it.
(c) Unless you are medically trained, you are not expected to diagnose anyone.
(d) However, we need to take a precautionary approach in order to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone around us and to reduce the risk of spreading the Coronavirus through the workplace.
(e) If you discover that someone at the workplace (such as another Employee or a customer) has the Coronavirus or has been exposed to it, or if you reasonably suspect that the person has the Coronavirus:
(I) take immediate action - do not wait until the person is confirmed to have the Coronavirus.
(II) if the affected person is displaying serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, call 000 for urgent medical attention. If the person is only displaying mild symptoms and is otherwise healthy, they should manage their symptoms at home.
(III) notify a supervisor or manager.
(IV) take steps to reduce the risk of spreading the Coronavirus from the affected person to anyone else.
(V) isolate the affected person if possible and safe to do so, in order to reduce the risk of spreading the Coronavirus.
(VI) provide any necessary or appropriate personal protective equipment to the affected person, and to anyone who is helping the affected person. Use any necessary or appropriate personal protective equipment to protect yourself from exposure to the Coronavirus.
(VII) use sanitiser and/or disinfectant as necessary in order to reduce the risk of spreading the Coronavirus.
(f) If a supervisor or manager has not done so, organise the following:
(I) before the affected person leaves the workplace, make sure they have provided up to date contact information, including a phone number.
(II) try to determine where the affected person has been or who else they may have come into contact with, and for how long, in order to assist with any contact tracing as well as cleaning and disinfection.
(III) close off any affected areas, and do not let other people use or enter them until they have been cleaned and disinfected.
(IV) all affected areas should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, including any affected offices, workspaces, bathrooms, kitchens, or other common areas as well as any affected equipment. Cleaners should also wear all relevant personal protection equipment.
(V) ventilate any affected areas, for example, by opening outside doors and windows.
(VI) follow up with any people who have been exposed to the affected person, and if necessary they should be tested for the Coronavirus and should self isolate pending the results of the test.
(VII) ensure that the affected person has transport to a medical facility, to their home, or to some other location where they will isolate.
(VIII) ensure that the affected person's next of kin have been notified about their situation.
(IX) all reasonable steps should be taken in order to minimise the affected person's contact with other people while travelling from work. This means:
(A) wherever possible, and provided that it is safe to do so, the affected person should use personal transport (such as their own car) in order to minimise their contact with others.
(B) public transport (such as buses, trams or trains) should be avoided unless there is no other option.
(C) if travelling by taxi or a ride share service, then the driver should be notified of the possibility that the affected person has the Coronavirus.
(D) all reasonable steps should be taken to avoid contact between the affected person and any other person(s), such as a taxi driver. This includes wearing a mask, avoiding direct contact with other people (for example by sitting in the back seat of a taxi), using contactless payment methods if possible, and practising good hand hygiene and cough/sneeze hygiene.
(g) If further information or advice is required, contact the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. This operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
(18) NOTIFYING AUTHORITIES
(a) In many cases, it may be necessary for the Employer to notify relevant authorities such as workplace safety authorities and/or health authorities about the existence of Coronavirus in the workplace.
(b) It is up to the Employer and/or a manager or supervisor to determine whether or not any relevant authorities need to be notified, and if so, to arrange for such notification.
(c) Employees should not contact any authorities about these matters, except with the express written permission of the Employer.
(d) We take our reporting obligations very seriously and we believe that in the appropriate circumstances, timely notification helps to control the spread of Coronavirus.
(e) If you have any concerns about these matters, please speak to a manager or supervisor.
(19) MEDIA ORGANISATIONS AND SOCIAL MEDIA
(a) Except with the express written permission of the Employer, Employees are prohibited from communicating with any media organisations or personnel in relation to any Coronavirus related matters that may affect the Employer.
(b) Except with the express written permission of the Employer, Employees are prohibited from sharing, commenting, posting or otherwise publishing any information on any social media or other internet based platforms in relation to any Coronavirus related matters that may affect the Employer.
(c) If you have any concerns about any Coronavirus related matters, we take these very seriously. Please speak to a manager or supervisor about your concerns so that we can help to address them.
(20) PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING
All Employees and customers are required to practice social distancing. In particular, Employees should:
(a) avoid shaking hands.
(b) avoid any non-essential physical contact.
(c) to the maximum extent possible, maintain a safe distance from others while carrying out duties or while at the workplace.
(d) wherever possible, stay at least 1.5 metres away from other people.
(e) wherever possible, make sure there is at least 4 square metres of space per person.
(f) make sure that customers also comply with these social distancing rules.
(21) WASHING HANDS
Good hygiene practices are essential to minimising the spread of the Coronavirus. Therefore, all Employees are required to regularly wash hands with soap and water, in accordance with the best practice recommendations of the World Health Organization ("WHO") which are available via the WHO website. This involves:
(a) wetting hands with water.
(b) applying enough soap to cover all hand surfaces.
(c) rubbing hands palm to palm.
(d) rubbing hands with right palm over left dorsum with interlaced fingers and vice versa.
(e) rubbing hands palm to palm with fingers interlaced.
(f) rubbing hands with backs of fingers to opposing palms with fingers interlocked.
(g) rotational rubbing of left thumb clasped in right palm and vice versa.
(h) rotational rubbing, backwards and forwards with clasped fingers of right hand in left palm and vice versa.
(i) rinsing hands with water.
(j) drying hands thoroughly with a single use towel.
(k) using a single use towel to turn off the tap.
(l) the entire process taking 40 to 60 seconds.
(22) HAND SANITISER
(a) In between washing their hands, Employees should also regularly use hand sanitiser to help minimise the spread of the Coronavirus.
(b) We aim to keep soap and alcohol sanitiser supplies topped up, but if you notice any running out, please top them up, or notify an appropriate person, so that they can do so.
(23) PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
(a) All Employees must wear personal protective equipment in order to minimise the risks of spreading the Coronavirus. This includes the following personal protective equipment:
(I) face masks.
(II) disposable gloves.
(III) eye protection.
(IV) protective screens (such as perspex screens).
(V) the following additional personal protective equipment:
________
(b) Employees may obtain personal protective equipment in the following manner:
________
(24) MEETINGS
Meetings increase the risk that Employees may be exposed to the Coronavirus. Therefore, in order to minimise this risk, Employees should:
(a) avoid non-essential meetings.
(b) if large meetings cannot be avoided, consider postponing them.
(c) if meetings cannot be avoided or postponed, consider holding them by video conference or telephone.
(d) if meetings must be held in person, consider holding them in well ventilated areas or outside.
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(27) VENTILATION
(a) Improving ventilation at the workplace can help to minimise the spread of Coronavirus.
(b) Employees should be mindful of ventilation and where possible and appropriate to do so, open windows and/or doors or adjust air conditioning in order to improve ventilation.
(28) CLEANING AND DISINFECTING
(a) Regular cleaning and sanitisation of surfaces, particularly those that many people come into contact with, can help to minimise the spread of Coronavirus.
(b) All Employees should take responsibility for regularly cleaning and sanitising surfaces around them, such as:
(I) phones.
(II) keyboards.
(III) desks, benches and tabletops.
(IV) doorknobs.
(V) drawers and cupboards.
(VI) point of sale facilities.
(VII) any other equipment in and around workstations.
(c) We need to pay particular attention to commonly used areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, staff rooms, reception areas, waiting rooms, and other common areas. These areas need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly and we ask that all Employees help us to stay on top of this.
(29) DEALING WITH CUSTOMERS
If dealing with customers, Employees should observe the following rules:
(a) if handling customer payments, use contactless payment options (such as tap and go or electronic funds transfer) and avoid handling cash.
(b) customers, delivery drivers, contractors and all other non-employees shall only be permitted onto the premises of the Employer where a previous appointment has been made and confirmed. Any persons who have not made an appointment shall not be permitted onto the premises.
(c) the number of customers, delivery drivers, contractors and other non-employees who shall be permitted on the premises of the Employer at one time shall be limited to a maximum of ________ person.
(30) OTHER VISITORS
(a) While visitors may be permitted at the workplace, we ask that all Employees exercise common sense and discourage any unnecessary visits, in order to reduce the risk of exposure to the Coronavirus.
(b) Any visitors to the workplace are required to comply with our rules regarding social distancing, washing hands, hand sanitiser, and use of personal protective equipment, as set out in this Policy. Any Employee welcoming or inviting a visitor to the workplace must remind the visitor of these rules.
(31) WORKING FROM HOME
(a) Employees who work in the following departments should work from home if possible:
________
(b) Employees who are able to work from home should adhere to the following schedule:
________
(c) While working from home the following supervision and reporting procedures shall apply:
________
(32) WORKPLACE ARRANGEMENTS
In order to reduce the risk of transmission of the Coronavirus between Employees, we are putting the following arrangements in place at the workplace:
________
(33) RETURNING TO WORK AFTER POSITIVE CORONAVIRUS TEST
(a) Employees who have tested positive for Coronavirus, and who have undertaken a period of isolation as a result, may only return to the workplace once expressly notified by the Employer.
(b) In some cases, the Employee might need to meet certain criteria as mandated by the government or by the health authority.
(c) It is our goal to get you back to work as soon as possible, while minimising the spread of the Coronavirus through the community, by working within any applicable rules or guidelines.
(34) RETURNING TO WORK AFTER QUARANTINE
If an Employee has undertaken a mandatory isolation period, either because they have returned from travel, or because they have been in close contact with a confirmed case of Coronavirus, and provided that the Employee has not developed symptoms of Coronavirus during that period of isolation, then:
(a) the Employee does not need medical clearance in order to return to the workplace, but the Employee still should not attend the workplace until the Employer directs them that they may do so.
(b) the Employee should notify the Employer of the situation, and the Employer will advise the Employee when they can return to the workplace.
(35) HOW TO MAKE A COMPLAINT OR SEEK ASSISTANCE
For further information about this Policy or to discuss any matters related to it, Employees may contact a supervisor or manager.
(36) ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
(a) The Employee acknowledges and confirms that the Employee has read and understood this Policy, and agrees to comply with this Policy.
(b) The Employee acknowledges and understands that this Policy is intended to serve as a guide and does not create any contractual obligation on any party.
(c) The Employee acknowledges that the Employer reserves the right to modify the policies, procedures and other provisions contained in this Policy.
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Employee Signature
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Employee Name
.......................................................
Date
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) WORKPLACE POLICY
________ (ACN................................................) ("Employer")
Effective Date: ________
(1) INTRODUCTION
At ________, our first priority is, and always should be, the health and wellbeing of our staff and of those around us. This is particularly relevant in the time of the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19).
In addition to any other workplace policies which we may have implemented, and in addition to any obligations which we may have under applicable workplace health and safety laws or regulations, we are implementing this Coronavirus (COVID-19) Workplace Policy (this "Policy"), in order to address the effects of the Coronavirus in the workplace.
Throughout this Policy we may refer to ________ as the "Employer" or using terms such as "us", "we" or "our".
This Policy is intended to serve as a guide and does not create any contractual obligation on any party.
The Employer reserves the right to modify the policies, procedures and other provisions contained in this Policy.
(2) SCOPE
(a) This Policy applies to all employees of ________ ("Employees").
(b) All Employees are expected to familiarise themselves with this Policy and to comply with it.
(3) DURATION
This Policy shall remain in effect until such time as determined by us.
(4) WE ALL NEED TO DO OUR PART
We all have a responsibility to do our part in tackling the Coronavirus. In order to help reduce the risk to yourselves, your coworkers, your families, and the rest of the community, please familiarise yourself with this Policy, and make sure that you and your coworkers comply with this Policy.
(5) COMMON SYMPTOMS OF CORONAVIRUS
(a) It is important to remember that there are several Coronavirus variants in circulation now, and some of them have different symptoms.
(b) It is also important to remember that even if you have been vaccinated, you may carry the Coronavirus.
(c) The Coronavirus can affect people in a variety of ways.
(d) Unless you are medically trained, you are not expected to diagnose anyone.
(e) Some common symptoms of the Coronavirus include:
(I) fever.
(II) coughing.
(III) sneezing.
(IV) tiredness.
(V) aches and pains.
(VI) sore throat.
(VII) diarrhoea.
(VIII) conjunctivitis.
(IX) headaches.
(X) loss of taste or smell.
(XI) skin rash, or discoloured fingers or toes.
(XII) headache.
(XIII) runny nose.
(XIV) difficulty breathing.
(XV) shortness of breath.
(XVI) chest pain or pressure.
(XVII) loss of speech or movement.
(f) This list is not exhaustive so people may display other symptoms instead of or in addition to those symptoms listed above.
(g) Symptoms may also differ depending on whether a person has been vaccinated, and how many doses they have had.
(h) Some people display mild symptoms and may recover without the need for any special medical treatment.
(i) Other people may display more serious symptoms.
(j) People with underlying disease, illness or medical conditions are more likely to suffer serious symptoms.
(k) On average it takes 5-6 days from when someone is infected with Coronavirus for symptoms to appear, but it can take up to 14 days. This means it is possible for someone to spread the Coronavirus even if they are not displaying any symptoms.
(6) NATIONAL CORONAVIRUS HELPLINE
If information or advice is required, contact the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. This operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
(7) EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
(a) If emergency medical assistance is required, call 000.
(b) If a person is only displaying mild symptoms and is otherwise healthy, then it may not be necessary to call 000 and they should manage their symptoms at home.
(8) YOU MUST KEEP US INFORMED
(a) If you think you may have been affected by the Coronavirus, then it is your obligation to keep us informed. You must immediately let us know if:
(I) you have suffered flu-like symptoms at any time since the beginning of 2020.
(II) you have been exposed to someone who might be infected with the Coronavirus (for example, if you live with someone who has recently suffered flu-like symptoms).
(III) for any other reason, you think you might be at risk of infection.
(b) Please contact a manager or supervisor to discuss any of these matters.
(9) LOOK OUT FOR EACH OTHER
(a) Now is a time for us to come together and show our support for one another. Many Australians are facing additional pressures right now, and small acts of kindness can go a long way.
(b) We need to work together, in a positive manner, to keep on top of our individual obligations, such as our obligations in relation to hygiene, cleaning and disinfection.
(c) It is OK to remind a coworker about these obligations. It is not OK to engage in bullying, harassment, or discrimination, even if it relates to these obligations.
(d) Please remind yourselves of the terms of our ________.
(e) Please look out for one another, and if you have any concerns about bullying, harassment, or discrimination (whether or not related to the Coronavirus), if you require support, or if you want a confidential discussion, please get in touch.
(10) AVOID MISINFORMATION
(a) A lot of misinformation is being circulated in relation to the Coronavirus through social media and other channels. While it is a situation that we all need to take seriously, there is no reason to panic.
(b) The sharing of misinformation can lead to confusion and can increase the risk of spreading the Coronavirus.
(c) It can be hard to detect misinformation, as it often looks legitimate.
(d) We will be paying close attention to the expert advice on this matter, in particular, that which is published by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and we encourage all Employees to do the same.
(e) Please be careful to avoid misinformation, and make sure you do not share misinformation.
(f) If you are unsure about whether certain information is legitimate or not, or you are unsure about where it originated from, do not share it.
(11) BE PROACTIVE
(a) This Policy provides some general guidance regarding how we intend to handle the challenges posed by the Coronavirus. However, this Policy is not exhaustive.
(b) We request that you proactively work to help keep the Coronavirus out of our workplace.
(c) If you notice something that needs to be done, then please do it. For example, if a bottle of sanitiser is empty, please see that it is replaced immediately instead of waiting for somebody else to do it.
(d) We welcome your feedback so if you notice things that we could do better, please speak to a manager or supervisor.
(12) IF YOU ARE UNWELL
We ask that if you are feeling unwell, please stay away from the workplace, and please let us know immediately. We will handle your concerns confidentially, we will support you, and we will work with you to develop a plan.
(13) IF YOU MAY HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO CORONAVIRUS
If you have been exposed to the Coronavirus, then in addition to keeping us informed, you must:
(a) take all reasonable steps to avoid the risk of spreading the Coronavirus to your coworkers or to any other people.
(b) stay away from the workplace and from any coworkers or customers until directed otherwise by us.
(c) undertake mandatory isolation in accordance with Australian Government advice, for a minimum of seven days, or until otherwise advised by a medical professional.
(d) not return to the workplace until directed by us that you may do so.
(14) CARING FOR DEPENDANTS
(a) If you require time away from work to care for a dependant (such as a child or elderly relative) due to the Coronavirus, please speak to us. We will strive to accommodate your needs.
(b) If you are at risk of exposure to the Coronavirus as a result of caring for a dependant, you must:
(I) take all reasonable steps to avoid the risk of spreading the Coronavirus to your coworkers or to any other people.
(II) stay away from the workplace and from any coworkers or customers until directed otherwise by us.
(III) undertake any mandatory isolation as specified in official Australian Government advice, or until otherwise advised by a medical professional.
(IV) not return to the workplace until directed by us that you may do so.
(15) HOW WE WILL SUPPORT YOU
(a) If you think you have been exposed to the Coronavirus then we will support you in the following ways:
(I) we will handle your concerns confidentially.
(II) in the event that you need to spend time away from work, then you may be able to use sick leave, carer's leave, or annual leave, so that you can continue to be paid through this period.
(III) if sick leave, carer's leave, or annual leave is not available, then you may be required to take unpaid leave.
(IV) if the nature of your work permits, we may allow you to work from home.
(b) If you have questions or concerns about your leave entitlements, then we will be happy to discuss these with you.
(c) If you require support or have any concerns, please contact a manager or supervisor for a confidential discussion.
(16) MEDICAL CERTIFICATES
We are supportive of all Employees exercising caution in relation to this matter, and will not require you to provide a medical certificate to support any time away from work. We will do this in order to minimise the strain on medical resources and to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.
(17) IF SOMEONE AT THE WORKPLACE IS SUSPECTED TO HAVE CORONAVIRUS
(a) If someone has or is suspected to have the Coronavirus, or if they are suspected to have been exposed to it, then they should not be at the workplace.
(b) Nevertheless, it is possible that someone may develop symptoms of the Coronavirus while at the workplace, or may reveal information which suggests that they may have been exposed to it.
(c) Unless you are medically trained, you are not expected to diagnose anyone.
(d) However, we need to take a precautionary approach in order to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone around us and to reduce the risk of spreading the Coronavirus through the workplace.
(e) If you discover that someone at the workplace (such as another Employee or a customer) has the Coronavirus or has been exposed to it, or if you reasonably suspect that the person has the Coronavirus:
(I) take immediate action - do not wait until the person is confirmed to have the Coronavirus.
(II) if the affected person is displaying serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, call 000 for urgent medical attention. If the person is only displaying mild symptoms and is otherwise healthy, they should manage their symptoms at home.
(III) notify a supervisor or manager.
(IV) take steps to reduce the risk of spreading the Coronavirus from the affected person to anyone else.
(V) isolate the affected person if possible and safe to do so, in order to reduce the risk of spreading the Coronavirus.
(VI) provide any necessary or appropriate personal protective equipment to the affected person, and to anyone who is helping the affected person. Use any necessary or appropriate personal protective equipment to protect yourself from exposure to the Coronavirus.
(VII) use sanitiser and/or disinfectant as necessary in order to reduce the risk of spreading the Coronavirus.
(f) If a supervisor or manager has not done so, organise the following:
(I) before the affected person leaves the workplace, make sure they have provided up to date contact information, including a phone number.
(II) try to determine where the affected person has been or who else they may have come into contact with, and for how long, in order to assist with any contact tracing as well as cleaning and disinfection.
(III) close off any affected areas, and do not let other people use or enter them until they have been cleaned and disinfected.
(IV) all affected areas should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, including any affected offices, workspaces, bathrooms, kitchens, or other common areas as well as any affected equipment. Cleaners should also wear all relevant personal protection equipment.
(V) ventilate any affected areas, for example, by opening outside doors and windows.
(VI) follow up with any people who have been exposed to the affected person, and if necessary they should be tested for the Coronavirus and should self isolate pending the results of the test.
(VII) ensure that the affected person has transport to a medical facility, to their home, or to some other location where they will isolate.
(VIII) ensure that the affected person's next of kin have been notified about their situation.
(IX) all reasonable steps should be taken in order to minimise the affected person's contact with other people while travelling from work. This means:
(A) wherever possible, and provided that it is safe to do so, the affected person should use personal transport (such as their own car) in order to minimise their contact with others.
(B) public transport (such as buses, trams or trains) should be avoided unless there is no other option.
(C) if travelling by taxi or a ride share service, then the driver should be notified of the possibility that the affected person has the Coronavirus.
(D) all reasonable steps should be taken to avoid contact between the affected person and any other person(s), such as a taxi driver. This includes wearing a mask, avoiding direct contact with other people (for example by sitting in the back seat of a taxi), using contactless payment methods if possible, and practising good hand hygiene and cough/sneeze hygiene.
(g) If further information or advice is required, contact the National Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080. This operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
(18) NOTIFYING AUTHORITIES
(a) In many cases, it may be necessary for the Employer to notify relevant authorities such as workplace safety authorities and/or health authorities about the existence of Coronavirus in the workplace.
(b) It is up to the Employer and/or a manager or supervisor to determine whether or not any relevant authorities need to be notified, and if so, to arrange for such notification.
(c) Employees should not contact any authorities about these matters, except with the express written permission of the Employer.
(d) We take our reporting obligations very seriously and we believe that in the appropriate circumstances, timely notification helps to control the spread of Coronavirus.
(e) If you have any concerns about these matters, please speak to a manager or supervisor.
(19) MEDIA ORGANISATIONS AND SOCIAL MEDIA
(a) Except with the express written permission of the Employer, Employees are prohibited from communicating with any media organisations or personnel in relation to any Coronavirus related matters that may affect the Employer.
(b) Except with the express written permission of the Employer, Employees are prohibited from sharing, commenting, posting or otherwise publishing any information on any social media or other internet based platforms in relation to any Coronavirus related matters that may affect the Employer.
(c) If you have any concerns about any Coronavirus related matters, we take these very seriously. Please speak to a manager or supervisor about your concerns so that we can help to address them.
(20) PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING
All Employees and customers are required to practice social distancing. In particular, Employees should:
(a) avoid shaking hands.
(b) avoid any non-essential physical contact.
(c) to the maximum extent possible, maintain a safe distance from others while carrying out duties or while at the workplace.
(d) wherever possible, stay at least 1.5 metres away from other people.
(e) wherever possible, make sure there is at least 4 square metres of space per person.
(f) make sure that customers also comply with these social distancing rules.
(21) WASHING HANDS
Good hygiene practices are essential to minimising the spread of the Coronavirus. Therefore, all Employees are required to regularly wash hands with soap and water, in accordance with the best practice recommendations of the World Health Organization ("WHO") which are available via the WHO website. This involves:
(a) wetting hands with water.
(b) applying enough soap to cover all hand surfaces.
(c) rubbing hands palm to palm.
(d) rubbing hands with right palm over left dorsum with interlaced fingers and vice versa.
(e) rubbing hands palm to palm with fingers interlaced.
(f) rubbing hands with backs of fingers to opposing palms with fingers interlocked.
(g) rotational rubbing of left thumb clasped in right palm and vice versa.
(h) rotational rubbing, backwards and forwards with clasped fingers of right hand in left palm and vice versa.
(i) rinsing hands with water.
(j) drying hands thoroughly with a single use towel.
(k) using a single use towel to turn off the tap.
(l) the entire process taking 40 to 60 seconds.
(22) HAND SANITISER
(a) In between washing their hands, Employees should also regularly use hand sanitiser to help minimise the spread of the Coronavirus.
(b) We aim to keep soap and alcohol sanitiser supplies topped up, but if you notice any running out, please top them up, or notify an appropriate person, so that they can do so.
(23) PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
(a) All Employees must wear personal protective equipment in order to minimise the risks of spreading the Coronavirus. This includes the following personal protective equipment:
(I) face masks.
(II) disposable gloves.
(III) eye protection.
(IV) protective screens (such as perspex screens).
(V) the following additional personal protective equipment:
________
(b) Employees may obtain personal protective equipment in the following manner:
________
(24) MEETINGS
Meetings increase the risk that Employees may be exposed to the Coronavirus. Therefore, in order to minimise this risk, Employees should:
(a) avoid non-essential meetings.
(b) if large meetings cannot be avoided, consider postponing them.
(c) if meetings cannot be avoided or postponed, consider holding them by video conference or telephone.
(d) if meetings must be held in person, consider holding them in well ventilated areas or outside.
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(27) VENTILATION
(a) Improving ventilation at the workplace can help to minimise the spread of Coronavirus.
(b) Employees should be mindful of ventilation and where possible and appropriate to do so, open windows and/or doors or adjust air conditioning in order to improve ventilation.
(28) CLEANING AND DISINFECTING
(a) Regular cleaning and sanitisation of surfaces, particularly those that many people come into contact with, can help to minimise the spread of Coronavirus.
(b) All Employees should take responsibility for regularly cleaning and sanitising surfaces around them, such as:
(I) phones.
(II) keyboards.
(III) desks, benches and tabletops.
(IV) doorknobs.
(V) drawers and cupboards.
(VI) point of sale facilities.
(VII) any other equipment in and around workstations.
(c) We need to pay particular attention to commonly used areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, staff rooms, reception areas, waiting rooms, and other common areas. These areas need to be cleaned and disinfected regularly and we ask that all Employees help us to stay on top of this.
(29) DEALING WITH CUSTOMERS
If dealing with customers, Employees should observe the following rules:
(a) if handling customer payments, use contactless payment options (such as tap and go or electronic funds transfer) and avoid handling cash.
(b) customers, delivery drivers, contractors and all other non-employees shall only be permitted onto the premises of the Employer where a previous appointment has been made and confirmed. Any persons who have not made an appointment shall not be permitted onto the premises.
(c) the number of customers, delivery drivers, contractors and other non-employees who shall be permitted on the premises of the Employer at one time shall be limited to a maximum of ________ person.
(30) OTHER VISITORS
(a) While visitors may be permitted at the workplace, we ask that all Employees exercise common sense and discourage any unnecessary visits, in order to reduce the risk of exposure to the Coronavirus.
(b) Any visitors to the workplace are required to comply with our rules regarding social distancing, washing hands, hand sanitiser, and use of personal protective equipment, as set out in this Policy. Any Employee welcoming or inviting a visitor to the workplace must remind the visitor of these rules.
(31) WORKING FROM HOME
(a) Employees who work in the following departments should work from home if possible:
________
(b) Employees who are able to work from home should adhere to the following schedule:
________
(c) While working from home the following supervision and reporting procedures shall apply:
________
(32) WORKPLACE ARRANGEMENTS
In order to reduce the risk of transmission of the Coronavirus between Employees, we are putting the following arrangements in place at the workplace:
________
(33) RETURNING TO WORK AFTER POSITIVE CORONAVIRUS TEST
(a) Employees who have tested positive for Coronavirus, and who have undertaken a period of isolation as a result, may only return to the workplace once expressly notified by the Employer.
(b) In some cases, the Employee might need to meet certain criteria as mandated by the government or by the health authority.
(c) It is our goal to get you back to work as soon as possible, while minimising the spread of the Coronavirus through the community, by working within any applicable rules or guidelines.
(34) RETURNING TO WORK AFTER QUARANTINE
If an Employee has undertaken a mandatory isolation period, either because they have returned from travel, or because they have been in close contact with a confirmed case of Coronavirus, and provided that the Employee has not developed symptoms of Coronavirus during that period of isolation, then:
(a) the Employee does not need medical clearance in order to return to the workplace, but the Employee still should not attend the workplace until the Employer directs them that they may do so.
(b) the Employee should notify the Employer of the situation, and the Employer will advise the Employee when they can return to the workplace.
(35) HOW TO MAKE A COMPLAINT OR SEEK ASSISTANCE
For further information about this Policy or to discuss any matters related to it, Employees may contact a supervisor or manager.
(36) ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
(a) The Employee acknowledges and confirms that the Employee has read and understood this Policy, and agrees to comply with this Policy.
(b) The Employee acknowledges and understands that this Policy is intended to serve as a guide and does not create any contractual obligation on any party.
(c) The Employee acknowledges that the Employer reserves the right to modify the policies, procedures and other provisions contained in this Policy.
.......................................................
Employee Signature
.......................................................
Employee Name
.......................................................
Date
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