Managing an employee with a workers compensation claim can be challenging & frustrating during normal business conditions, yet what do businesses need to do in unprecedented times of coronavirus (COVID-19)?
COVID-19 & Workers (Claims) During the current uncertain times, many businesses have been directed to close by the Australian Government or alternatively are attempting to continue to operate under incredibly challenging conditions. Maintaining business continuity is extremely difficult and supporting your employees.
According to Safe Work Australia, if you have an employee confirmed with COVID-19 (when at work) you must:
- Isolate – ensure the worker does not return to work whilst they are infectious
- Inform – contact National Coronavirus Helpline (1800 020 080) or your state/territory specific advice line
- Transport – ensure your worker is transported to their home or medical facilitaty
- Clean – clean areas the person was working including possible evacuation of other employees. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required
- Identify – who has had close contact with ill worker
- Clean – re-clean the work area per (4) above
- Review – your WHS Risk Management Controls in relation to COVID-19 and assess if work may need to change including keeping other employees updated as to what is happening
In addition, work with authorities to determine if your employee sourced COVID-19 through work related activities. If contraction of the virus can be traced to a work related activity, then as an employer you need to support the worker in lodging a workers compensation claim – more information can be found here (link to above article)
If you have an employee who displays coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms, then you need to:
- Follow your existing workplace policy and procedures regarding illness in the workplace
- Direct your employee to:
- Leave your work environment / go home
- Seek medical assistance
- If possible work from home until symptoms pass or cleared by a doctor
- If you decide to require workers to stay away from work, you may still be obliged to pay them. You should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for further information on 13 13 94
If you need help, please contact us to discuss.
For further information:
Source: SafeWork Australia
Title: COVID-19 Information for Workplaces – What to do if a worker as COVID-19
Read time: 15+ minutes
Australian State & Territory COVID-19 Helplines
- Australian Capital Territory – Healthdirect – 1800 022 222
- Queensland – 13 Health – 13 43 25 84
- New South Wales – Healthdirect – 1800 022 222
- Northern Territory – Use the National Coronavirus Information Helpline – 1800 020 080
- South Australia – SA COVID-19 Information Line – 1800 253 787
- Tasmania – Tasmanian Public Health Hotline – 1800 671 738
- Victoria – Coronavirus Hotline – 1800 675 398
- Western Australia – Use the National Coronavirus Information Helpline – 1800 020 080