Construction industry in Victoria permitted to work but will need to adhere to new restrictions
The Victorian government we’ll be making some big changes to make construction sites workplaces safer – for workers and for their families.
This includes mandated reductions to the number of workers onsite.
- Warehousing and distribution centres in Melbourne will be limited to no more than two-thirds the normal workforce allowed onsite at any one time.
- Our construction sector will also move to pilot-light levels. For major construction sites, that means the absolute minimum required for safety – but no more than 25% of the normal workforce onsite. Small-scale construction will be limited to a maximum of 5 people onsite.
These workplaces that are continuing to operate will also have additional requirements including extra PPE, staggering shifts, staggering breaks, health declarations and more support for sick workers to ensure they stay home.
All open businesses and services will have until 11:59pm Friday 7 August to enact a COVIDSafe plan focused on safety, prevention and response in the event that coronavirus is linked to the workplace — because beating this virus requires a rapid response wherever it rears its head.
Enforcement
These changes will be enforceable. And the onus will be on employers to make sure they’re doing the right thing by their workers, including ensuring those with symptoms – and potentially the virus – do not come to work.
Support
For those businesses that suffer significant losses or need to close as a result of the current restrictions, there is support through the expanded Business Support Fund. Businesses in regional Victoria can apply for a $5,000 grant. Businesses in Melbourne and Mitchell Shire can apply for up to $10,000 in recognition of spending longer under restrictions.
