Federal Safety Commissioner, David Denney, has published a practical guidance for accredited companies on minimising the spread of COVID-19 onsite in line with the requirements of the Work Health and Safety Accreditation Scheme.

In publishing the guidance, the Commissioner said, “COVID-19 is a new and invisible safety risk that building and construction companies need to manage at the same time as the usual safety risks onsite like mobile plant and working from heights. This guidance provides accredited companies with pointers on the things to consider to both manage the risk of the virus and meet the requirements of the Scheme.”

The guidance also provides a list of the current Scheme Criteria most relevant to managing COVID-19, practical examples of steps that could be taken to meet each criterion, including:

• Physical distancing
• Cleaning
• Consultation with workers
• Hygiene
• Documentation
• Planning

This guidance complements information and advice available from Federal, State and Territory Health Departments, Safe Work authorities and construction industry groups.

Information on temporary operational changes for the Work Health and Safety Accreditation Scheme during the COVID-19 situation have been previously announced. The OFSC is assessing the impacts of COVID-19 on its operations on a daily basis and will provide updates as changes to the way we work are required.

For additional information please email ofsc@dewr.gov.au.