COVID update: Hybrid working in offices, COVIDSafe workplaces, mask wearing and workplace check-in
This update is intended for office based staff and their arrangements for returning to workplaces.
We now have more options to connect and collaborate with each other in person as part of our hybrid ways of working. This step change is the result of the NSW Government recently removing its recommendation to work from home.
Hybrid working in offices
A mix of face-to-face and virtual working gives you greater choice in where and when you work, while also allowing us to dial up and dial down our ability to work at home or in the office, depending on the circumstances.
Every role will benefit from some face-to-face time, but this will look different for everyone. If you haven’t already, speak to your leader to discuss a suitable operating rhythm that will work for both you and your team.
More information on hybrid working is available here.
How we’re keeping our workplaces COVIDSafe
Transport’s COVIDSafe Policy is in place to help keep us safe at work. From 1 March, the following COVIDSafe measures will continue to be in place at Transport workplaces:
- Enhanced cleaning: The cleaning programs in place differ across locations. Please continue to use the sanitisation products provided, with a focus on good hand hygiene and physical distancing to ensure that extra layer of protection for yourself and your colleagues.
- Plan ahead: Make sure you’re familiar with your team’s Hub and if you’re planning to work from one of our bookable drop in locations please book a desk before you arrive. For regional locations such as Dubbo and Wollongong undergoing a transition, existing arrangements remain in place.
- Physical distancing: The 1.5m physical distancing guidelines are still in place across our offices. For ABW environments please follow the booking system (where applicable) or the onsite green dots (for sites without a booking system such as Wagga Wagga and Newcastle) for guidance on which desks to use.
- Capacity limits: These will remain in meeting rooms to enable physical distancing.
Mask wearing
Under the public health order, masks remain a requirement on public transport and in all public transport waiting areas.
Indoor mask wearing requirements under the Public Health Order have been relaxed. This means masks are no longer mandatory in most of our indoor worksites including corporate offices.
Sydney Trains and TrainLink staff should refer to their local leader communications for advice on mask wearing. Masks are encouraged for indoor settings where you cannot maintain a safe distance from others.
Anyone is welcome to continue to wear a mask in any of our locations and some people will be required to under the existing arrangements. Transport will continue to provide surgical face masks (our recommended face covering) at your office.
If you are unsure – ask your leader.
Visitors
Note that visitors must comply with Transport’s COVIDSafe Policy requirements, including vaccination and the above safety requirements while at any of our workplaces.
Workplace check-in
Workplace check-in is now in place and replaces the Service NSW check-in. This is Transport specific and plays a key role in allowing us to notify people of confirmed COVID-19 cases at the same work location on the same date.
The Transport workplace check-in system allows us to capture the same information as the Service NSW app, plus additional location specific details such as the floor accessed by a confirmed COVID case. It also enables us to provide our people with timely notifications and tailored advice, as recommended by NSW Health.
You can read more about workplace check-in and how it works in our FAQs.
Boosters
Vaccination remains an important part of COVIDSafe policy. If you’re not boosted, we encourage to get boosted now.
Don’t forget, there is also a COVID-19 Booster Shot Support Payment available for you. Visit StayInformed for information on vaccinations, personal safety and how to access the booster shot support payment.
