Vic renews COVID-19 guidance to ensure workplace safety

The Victorian Government is renewing critical regulations to ensure the efficient and effective management of COVID-19 risks in the workplace. The remaking of the regulations for an additional 12 months will ensure employers continue to notify WorkSafe Victoria of COVID-19 cases in their workplaces. Employers must notify WorkSafe Victoria immediately on becoming aware that an employee or an independent contractor or a contractor’s employee has received a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis and has attended the workplace during the infectious period. Self-employed persons must also directly inform WorkSafe Victoria upon receiving a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis if they have attended the workplace during the infectious period. The new regulations came into effect on 27 July 2021.

Failing to notify WorkSafe Victoria under section 38 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 can lead to fines of up to $43,617 (240 penalty units) for an individual or $218,088 (1200 penalty units) for a body corporate.

To notify WorkSafe Victoria about a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, or for more information about the infectious period for the purposes of notification, employers or self-employed persons can click here, or call the WorkSafe Victoria advisory service on 13 23 60.

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