SafeWork NSW releases Statement of Regulatory Intent for COVID 19

SafeWork NSW has issued a Statement of Regulatory Intent outlining the enforcement approach it will take to ensure compliance with WHS laws during the COVID 19 pandemic.

The safety regulator said it recognises the exceptional set of circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic and its impacts on persons with duties under the work health and safety legislation.

"SafeWork NSW appreciates that exceptional circumstances require flexibility on the part of the WHS regulators, and this is reflected in 'Our Approach to Work Health and Safety Regulation' which involves a graduated approach to compliance and enforcement in line with the 'National Compliance and Enforcement Policy'," SafeWork NSW said in a statement.

The regulator added that it was aware that the Public Health Orders may impact NSW workplaces. Therefore, it will consider the unprecedented pressures on industry and apply a common sense and practical approach to its interactions with workplaces.

SafeWork NSW advises businesses to put measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace.

Read the full statement on the SafeWork NSW website.