If you have been watching the news and the trending internet stories, you would have watched with interest the scrapping of the Covid-19 isolation rules, previously the isolation period had been reduced from seven (7) to five (5) days, but now from October 14, 2022 the isolation period for a majority of sectors will be removed altogether.
The only exceptions are as previously set, which is still those that work within the aged care sector, hospital settings, the disability sector and Aboriginal healthcare, these sectors will still continue to enforce the 5-day isolation period after testing positive to Covid-19.
Covid-19 financial support in turn is also coming to an end on October 14, 2022 for everyone except those in the high-risk sectors.
For employers however this could have a significant impact on day to day operations, and forward planning will certainly see the transition a more smooth one.
For those employers in the high-risk sectors not a lot will change but for those in all other sectors a few preparation tips:
Ensure all policies are up to date in relation to Covid-19 and go beyond the government directives to ensure a healthy and safe workplace.
Ensure policies relating to the new Covid-19 non isolation directives have enough flexibility for your particular business, including taking into account those vulnerable employees and those with existing health conditions.
Be aware of your rights and obligations. For example; with the correct policies in place, where an employee is Covid-19 positive and displaying symptoms the employer will have the option in relation to the safety and wellbeing of all employees, to direct the infected employee to return home/work from home until such time they are asymptomatic.
For assistance with these latest changes and adapting your workplace policies, contact one of our local coaches for their expert advice and assistance.
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