COVID-19 update - 6 August 2020

6 August 2020

Today we'll focus on how the border closure is causing uncertainty for the industry and what Master Builders is doing about it; a reminder about social distancing and hygiene requirements and a fake respiratory mask alert from WHSQ.

^{This COVID-19 member update is unlocked and free to all in the interests of the building and construction industry. Did you know members have exclusive access to information and our team of experts who are on hand to assist in a range of ways? Need more specific COVID-19 advice relating to contracts, WHS, employment conditions or the relief measures? Members can contact us or learn how to join so you can speak with our experts and get free advice.}

Border uncertainty rattling industry

The uncertainty around the recently announced border closures effective from 1am Saturday, 8 August has created a lot of questions and uncertainty for builders and tradies, particularly those who live and work in the Tweed and regularly cross the border for construction work and companies that perform critical infrastructure work in regional NSW.

We've fielded many calls from members with questions that currently cannot be answered.

We're applying pressure to the Queensland Government to provide some clarity on what the latest closure means and not let this uncertainty about exemptions and border pass processes undo the good work done to date.

As soon as we know the details, we'll send another update. In the meantime, please share our Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter posts and look out for our media campaign.

Staying COVID safe

In the current circumstances, it’s more important than ever to be vigilant about the social distance and hygiene protocols you have in place for your business.

We recently updated our Health Disclosure Forms for clients and visitors, which are part of our range of COVID-19 resources developed exclusively for members.

Safety alert: fake respiratory masks

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland recently issued an alert for fake respiratory masks, alerting the industry to ensure you or your business can identify fake (non-certified) respirators and highlight the risks associated with using them.

Resources

We're trying to make it easier with loads of resources available:

Health Disclosure Form (clients) – use this when visiting clients and private premises
Health Disclosure Form (visitors) – use this form for visitors coming to your site or business
Notice to supply to clients – use this to confirm for clients you are authorised to attend
Notice to clients (product selections) – provide this notice to your clients to confirm that they are required to visit suppliers to make product selections as per their building contract
COVID-19 site sign – use this to educate your workers on the guidelines
COVID-19 site sign (public) – use this to reinforce to the public and workers on the measures you are taking
Keep your distance checklist – use this to ensure you are following all the recommendations
COVID-19 entry authorisation sign – use this for sites without constant supervision of visitors entering at the gate. Visitors can use this as a health self-assessment
Digital banner (PDF or JPEG) – use this banner in your advertising and newsletters to demonstrate to customers and stakeholders that you are following the COVID-19 rules.
Display Village Visitors Notice – use this notice in your display home to notify visitors of relevant rules and measures you've implemented.
COVID-19 cleaning guide & FAQs – use this cleaning guide to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in your workplace.

We're here for you

We've got the information you need on:

Help and advice

As usual, our staff are here to help. Whether you've got a question about protecting your business contractually, an employment or a health and safety question, our specialists are here and available to talk you through the options - get in touch.

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