The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has identified the following groups as ‘vulnerable’ workers in relation to coronavirus (COVID-19):

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 50 years and older with one or more chronic medical conditions
• People 65 years and older with a chronic medical condition
• People 70 years and older
• People with compromised immune systems
• People who are pregnant.

Employers should assess the risk to determine who in their workforce may have a higher likelihood of exposure to coronavirus and implement controls to address these risks appropriately. For example, higher-risk roles would likely include those of peggy/cleaners, hoist/ lift operators and first-aider).

Where practical, reasonable action should be taken to minimise the occurrence of workers conducting higher-risk roles.

Further information about managing risks associated with COVID-19 can be found in the guidelines here.

Members who require additional support in assessing and controlling risks on site are encouraged to get in touch with a member of our OHS team for onsite assistance by calling (03) 9411 4555.