Regulations renewed to manage COVID-19 risks

The remaking of the regulations for an additional 12 months will ensure employers continue to notify WorkSafe of COVID-19 cases in their workplaces.

Employers are required to notify WorkSafe 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 are also required to directly inform WorkSafe immediately on receiving a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis if they have attended the workplace during the infectious period.

The new regulations came into force on 27 July 2021.

Failing to notify WorkSafe 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 of a positive COVID-19 diagnosis or for more information about the infectious period for the purposes of notification, employers or self-employed persons should visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/report-confirmed-positive-case-covid-19 or call 13 23 60.