Unions Launch Demands for COVID-Safe Workplaces

New guidance outlining the changes that will be necessary in all Australian workplaces as lockdowns ease and more people return to work have been released by the ACTU.

The guidance is designed for Heath and Safety Representatives (HSRs) and union delegates and is focussed around two central elements – ventilation and social distancing.

“Good ventilation in workplaces is essential to stopping the spread of the virus. Where possible workplaces should open windows or doors, use air-conditioning units to pump fresh air into buildings and use air purifiers to reduce the risk of airborne transmission,” the ACTU said in a statement.

The materials being distributed to HSRs and delegates also make it clear that in most cases the layout of a workplace or the way work is done will need to be altered to reduce the amount of time people spend in close proximity, especially inside enclosed spaces.

The ACTU said unions stands ready to work with employers to find solutions to the often complex problems posed by the virus, and to ensure that none of these changes create other, unintended workplace health and safety risks.

ACTU Secretary Sally McManus said allowing businesses to reopen and bring workers back into workplaces could not come at the expense of the health and safety of working people.

“Vaccination is the best defence, but it can’t do the job on its own. To keep transmission out of workplaces ventilation and social distancing are also needed. Employers and workers need to work together to ensure all that can be done is put in place when workplaces reopen.”

The materials can be found here.