Under Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews’ COVIDSafe Summer restrictions, Victorians must carry a face mask with them when leaving home. However, wearing a face mask in only mandatory on public transport, while in taxis or rideshare vehicles, and at large retail venues.
Under the updated Workplace Directions (No 12), which commenced on 6 December 2020 at 11:59pm, employers must take reasonable steps to ensure that workers:
- Carry a face covering with them at all times (unless the worker has a physical or mental health illness or condition or disability which makes wearing a face covering unsuitable); and
- Wear a face covering where required to do so in accordance with any other Directions currently in force (unless an exemption applies – e.g. the nature of the worker’s work means that wearing a face covering creates a risk to their health and safety).
Business owners should note that in relation to large retail venues, under the updated Stay Safe Direction (Victoria)(No 4), sub-clause 7(b)(ii)(B) clarifies that a face covering must be worn while in an indoor space at a retail facility ‘where the total of all indoor spaces accessible to members of the public is 2,000 square metres or more’.
Whilst the directions mean that wearing a face covering at work is no longer mandatory for most Victorians (unless operating a large retail venue), VACC is recommending to its members that wherever practicable face masks continue to be worn in the workplace, particularly indoors where ventilation is poor and where it is not possible to keep 1.5 metres distance from other people – and whilst cleaning inside customer vehicles.
Record-keeping obligations remain in place for all workers and visitors who attend the work premises for longer than 15 minutes; and density requirements have been updated for both shared spaces (such as lunchrooms) and publicly accessible areas at the work premises to one person every two square metres.
Employers are encouraged to take the time to familiarise themselves with the new COVIDSafe Summer level of restrictions and review and update COVIDSafe Plans accordingly. Consultation on any changes to workplace requirements or updated COVIDSafe Plans must take place with all affected staff.
VACC members are encouraged to contact the VACC OHSE Unit for assistance in relation to their COVIDSafe Plans on 03 9829 1265.
For more information
Victorian State Government: COVIDSafe Summer
Victorian Premier: Premier's Statement 6 December 2020
Victorian State Government: COVIDSafe Plans