COVID-19

Australia is continuing to closely monitor and react to the outbreak of respiratory illness caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19).

While the number of confirmed cases and deaths in Australia resulting from COVID-19 are relatively low compared to many countries across the world, the numbers have been increasing rapidly. This virus is more contagious and deadly than seasonal influenza. Older age groups and people with a compromised immunity are most at risk.

Simple precautions and planning can make a big difference. Action now will help protect you, your workers and your business.

How COVID-19 Spreads

The COVID-19 coronavirus spreads in a similar way to the seasonal flu. When someone who has COVID-19 coughs or sneezes, they release droplets of infected fluid that fall on nearby surfaces and objects. People could catch the illness by breathing in airborne droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces/objects – and then touching their eyes, nose or mouth. It has been reported that droplets deposited on hard surfaces such as stainless steel and plastics can remain infectious for up to three days.

How PJRA Can Help

Risk-Based Emergency Management Plans: we can assist clients with the review and development of risk-based emergency management plans; and
WHS Risk Management: we can assist in the facilitation of risk assessments to review existing work practices and mitigation of potential exposure.

COVID-19 Risk Management

When considering development of your organisation’s emergency management plan for COVID-19, it should include:

COVID-19 Emergency Management Plan Stages	Triggers	Actions
Prevention and Preparedness	Should commence prior to the outbreak of illness or disease Should be reviewed and updated as new information becomes available If not already done, act now	Undertake WHS risk management regarding work activities / work design Develop a pandemic plan – including how to manage the risk of workers presenting with symptoms and business continuity considerations
Response – Initial Action	Confirmed cases of COVID-19 continue to increase across Australia Confirmed reports of human to human transmission Confirmed cases are isolated to people in direct contact with travellers or high-risk occupations (e.g. health care professionals)	Promote regular and thorough hand and respiratory hygiene – including washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds and covering coughs / sneezes Undertake WHS risk management regarding work activities / work design, including working from home Consider alternative work arrangements, including working from home and splitting the workforce if located in the same workspace Ensure work environment is kept clean Ensure good communication Develop a plan to manage suspected cases of COVID-19 Monitor travel advice and restrictions Inspect ventilation and air conditioning systems Keep informed and up to date on COVID-19 information
Response – Targeted Action	Confirmed cases: In your immediate work environment Widespread: Community exposure state-wide If you haven’t already developed a plan for what to do if someone is in close contact, or becomes ill, with COVID-19, act now	Review your current controls if COVID-19 spreads in an area where your workplace is located, or where workers are likely to travel Facilitate working from home and virtual methods of communication where practicable Review your pandemic plan Ensure effective communication about increased workplace controls, and the pandemic plan Keep informed and up to date on COVID-19 information Plan for management in the recovery phase of the COVID-19 pandemic
Recovery	Relevant authorities (e.g. NSW Health) declare the threat is contained and are monitoring for any changes (e.g. a second outbreak)	Continue keeping informed and up to date on COVID-19 information Implement your recovery phase management plan Continue ensuring good communication Evaluate all relevant plans, policies, procedures, etc.

Useful Links

Safe Work Australia: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/coronavirus-covid-19-advice-pcbus
Comcare: https://www.comcare.gov.au/prevent-harm/coronavirus
SafeWork NSW: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-public-notice/coronavirus
WorkSafe Victoria: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/infectious-diseases