COVID-19 Vaccine National WHS guidance released

February 22, 2021 Mining Editor

Safe Work Australia has released work health safety guidance on COVID-19 vaccinations and the workplace in readiness for Australia’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout strategy commencing Monday, 22 February 2021.

SafeWork SA’s Executive Director, Martyn Campbell said the new guidance material is specific to vaccination and provides information and advice for businesses and workers about their role and responsibilities relating to the work health and safety duties and risk of exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace.

Can my boss direct me to get the COVID-19 vaccine?

“Employers have a responsibility under Work Health Safety laws to eliminate, or where that is not reasonably practicable, to minimise the risk of exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace.

Vaccinations should be considered as one way to apply a control measure in relation to COVID-19.

Workplaces must continue with all the other measures in place to stop the spread of the virus including physical distancing, good hygiene and regular cleaning and maintenance”, said Mr Campbell.

There are currently no laws or public health orders in Australia that specifically enable employers to require their employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

“I strongly encourage businesses and workers to read the new guides and understand how to best provide a safe working environment for everyone”, said Mr Campbell.

Further information: COVID-19 vaccination – Safe Work Australia

Read more Mining Safety News

Previous Article
Rio Tinto connects Pilbara to Asia with new freight shipping route
Rio Tinto connects Pilbara to Asia with new freight shipping route

Rio Tinto has secured a new commercial freight shipping service connecting Western Australia’s Pilbara regi...

Next Article
Loader operator drove over the edge of stope
Loader operator drove over the edge of stope

The NSW Resources Regulator has reported a loader incident at an underground metal mine that caused the ope...