On 24 April 2020, the National Cabinet agreed to the National COVID-19 Safe Workplace Principles and Safe Work Australia has since built on these principles with an in-depth COVID-19 Resource Kit. Cooper Grace Ward has prepared the following guide to summarise the practical safety issues arising from the Resource Kit, to assist Australian employers as restrictions are eased and employees return to their workplaces.

Our Employers' COVID-19 safety tool kit provides key information and tips, including:

  • COVID-19 in the workplace - steps an employer should take if it reasonably suspects someone has, or has been exposed to, COVID-19
  • Conducting risk assessments - when and how to conduct risk assessments, including information on what is 'reasonably practicable'
  • Physical distancing - how to calculate and adhere to physical distancing rules such as the 4 square metre rule and what to do if these cannot be strictly adhered to
  • Cleaning and disinfecting the workplace - how to clean and sanitise the workplace and when to do so
  • Worker mental health - what causes psychological injury and tips on how to manage mental health in the workplace, including when employees are working from home.

Employers should remember to consult with workers and their representatives on health and safety matters relating to COVID-19 and its effect on workers, the workplace and others.

For more information, join our upcoming webinar Getting workers back to work safely following COVID-19 - what employers need to know, where Cooper Grace Ward partners, Belinda Winter and Annie Smeaton will explain what is expected of employers, including:

  • steps an employer should take if it reasonably suspects someone has, or has been exposed to, the virus
  • when and how to conduct risk assessments, including information on what is 'reasonably practicable'
  • how to calculate and adhere to physical distancing rules such as the 4 square metre rule and what to do if these cannot be strictly followed
  • how to clean and disinfect the workplace and when to do so
  • what causes psychological injury and tips on how to manage mental health in the workplace and from home

© Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers

Cooper Grace Ward is a leading Australian law firm based in Brisbane.

This publication is for information only and is not legal advice. You should obtain advice that is specific to your circumstances and not rely on this publication as legal advice. If there are any issues you would like us to advise you on arising from this publication, please contact Cooper Grace Ward Lawyers.