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Construction projects, Industry News, Latest News, Tasmania, Tasmania

Tasmania declares construction industry essential, releases COVID-19 guidelines

The Tasmanian Government has recognised the building and construction sector as essential but has urged those in the industry to take measures to minimise the risk of COVID-19.

Worksafe Tasmania has provided information for employers and employees, which can be found here.

Some of the key directions from Worksafe include keeping up to date with advice on controls to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

If there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 on a worksite, employers should seek immediate advice from Public Health Services, which has procedures in place to track the movements of the person.

Current legislative requirements remain in force, although if an employer is unable to meet regulatory obligations due to COVID-19, the Tasmanian Government will take a reasonable and proportionate response.

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While essential building sites around Tasmania have largely remained active during the coronavirus pandemic, contractors have been required to put in place social distancing and personal hygiene measures to protect those working on and around sites.

Construction Minister Elise Archer said she congratulates the construction sector member organisations for developing clear and extensive instructions for building sites, and these should be strictly followed.

The Tasmanian government has also announced bringing forward of millions of dollars of funding as part of its stimulus package.

To ensure a steady supply of screw-driver and paint-brush ready projects, the State Government has extended the Local Government Loan Scheme from $50 million to $150 million. This is in addition to bringing forward $50 million of maintenance in public buildings and assets, including public housing, announced last week.

Building and construction industry members in Tasmania can obtain information about COVID-19 specific to their sector at Master Builders Tasmania and the Housing Industry Association.

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