COVIDSafe update: a message from the COVID Taskforce

With the new BA.2 Omicron sub-variant spreading, we are expecting to see an increase in COVID-19 case numbers in the community and within Transport over the coming weeks and months. We understand this spike means some of our people may be feeling anxious and have concerns about returning to our offices and other workplaces.

Our COVIDSafe Measures Policy was developed with new waves and variants in mind and allows us to continue to maintain a safe work environment. At this time there are no changes to the existing COVIDSafe measures across Transport and we can continue to work in a hybrid way. Face to face events and activities that are effectively planned can continue to occur although some may move online. As always, we are continuing to monitor the situation to determine if any changes are required. If anything does change, please be assured we will communicate this with you.

As we start to see an increase in the number of our people coming together in Transport offices and worksites we want to reiterate the COVIDSafe measures and processes in place to help keep you and those around you safe. It is important now more than ever that we do not become complacent and continue to follow all of these measures. Of particular importance are our contact tracing tools. Please use the Transport QR code check-in at all our locations. This is critical for us in contact tracing.

Vaccination

Vaccination is a key part of our COVIDSafe measures policy and as of 7 February all Transport people were required to be double vaccinated to be compliant with the policy. Anyone with an approved medical exemption will be operating under tailored control measures to ensure their personal safety and the safety of our community. While it is not mandated as part of the policy, we are strongly encouraging all Transport people to receive a booster as soon as you are eligible. If you’re not boosted, we encourage you to get boosted now.

Mask wearing

Mask wearing remains mandatory on public transport and in all public transport waiting areas. While masks are no longer mandatory in most of our indoor worksites including corporate offices, anyone is welcome to wear a mask in any of our locations and some people will require these under existing arrangements. Transport will continue to provide surgical face masks at our offices. Mask wearing may minimise the impacts of isolation if you come into contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case at work. Sydney Trains, TrainLink and other operational staff should refer to their local leader communications for advice on mask wearing. 

Physical distancing

The 1.5 metre physical distancing guidelines are still in place across our offices. For ABW environments make sure you follow the booking system (where applicable) or the onsite green dots for guidance on which desks to use. Capacity limits remain in meeting rooms to enable physical distancing.

Positive case reporting

To help minimise the transmission of COVID-19 at our workplaces it is vital that any positive COVID-19 cases are reported as soon as possible. For more information on how to report if you or someone in your team is a positive case please visit stayinformed.

Workplace check-in (Transport QR codes)

There is a new Transport Workplace check-in you can use to speed up our contact tracing in the event of a positive COVID-19 case at work. This is different to the Service NSW check-in which is no longer being used. Check-in every time using the unique Transport Workplace check-in QR codes at all of our offices and worksites. You can find the QR codes displayed on each floor, and in some meeting rooms.

Enhanced cleaning

There are enhanced cleaning programs in place across all Transport locations. Continue to use the sanitisation products provided, with a focus on good hand hygiene and physical distancing.

Surveillance testing

Transport has a number of Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) programs and pilots across critical sites. These are additional safety measures for priority assessed workers. In coming weeks, there will be some consultation with groups to enable the expansion of our RAT programs, in order to reach all our teams for the purpose of symptomatic testing becoming available to all employees.

Symptom check

Feeling unwell? If so, please stay home. We’re all responsible for our own safety, so stay home if you have any symptoms.

Finally, it is important to acknowledge the current climate is a difficult one for many, with a large number of our people still dealing with the flood recovery alongside the impacts of COVID-19. Please make sure you reach out for support.

Stay safe.

Karen