What to do to stay open in Victorian lockdown?

Printers, mail house operators and distributors in Victoria have been given the go ahead to keep operating during the state’s Stage 4 lockdown, but the sector must meet stringent workplace health and safety guidelines to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 to do so.

The Real Media Collective worked closely with the Victorian government to secure the industry’s status as an essential service supply chain provider and lists the below criteria which are necessary for continued operation.

  • A 33 per cent staff reduction, compared to peak capacity, across the state has been stipulated, however it appears this applies to just meat and abbatoirs but is being clarified;
  • No staff hopping – all employees must work from one site only;
  • Ensuring highly socially distanced work areas. The Collective’s Industry Insights Survey found even the smallest operators which had 55 square metres of space per employee were way above the WorkSafe Victoria guideline of four square metres of space per employee. It is important this is maintained.
  • Random WorkSafe inspections will be carried out so be prepared. All operators are advised to have their COVID-19 Safe Plan in place. If not please download one here and email Charles Watson at the Real Media Collective on charles@thermc.com.au if you need assistance.
  • Ensure shift cross-overs are limited or no-contact;
  • Ensure there is no public access granted to print sites.

WorkSafe Victoria has also introduced new temporary OHS COVID-19 Regulations for the next 12 months, effective July 28 2020, with the aim being to reduce virus transmission in the workplace.

These amendments require companies to notify WorkSafe Victoria on 13 23 60 or online if:

  • an employer becomes aware that an employee or independent contractor engaged by the employer, and any employees of the independent contractor, has received a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19, and has attended the workplace within the infectious period (being 14 days prior to receiving the confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and until clearance from isolation has been received); or
  • a self-employed person has received a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and has attended the workplace within the infectious period (being 14 days prior to receiving the confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and until clearance from isolation has been received).
  • Penalties of up to $39,652 for an individual or $198,264 for a corporate apply if this is not done.

To access the federal government’s COVID-19 Safe Work Plan, please click here.

To access The Real Media Collective’s Printing and Distribution Protocols, please click here.

To view the list of sectors and how they are impacted, please click here.

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter

Leave a comment:

Your email address will not be published. All fields are required

Advertisement

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.
Advertisement