Department of Customer Service: COVID risk assessment update - Public Service Association

Department of Customer Service: COVID risk assessment update

At the fortnightly Realignment Joint Consultative Committee, the Department provided the PSA with an overview of its risk assessment undertakings:

Erica Machon explained the requirement to make a determination regarding the vaccination giving clear direction on what is considered lawful and reasonable. She stated this is a clear government expectation. The health advice received is that vaccinated people are less likely to transmit and experience severe illness if they contract COVID-19

Recently, a survey was sent to staff to discover their views on vaccination, giving the Department a chance to identify key themes. Some included informed choice versus safety. There was some conflict regarding the comments that were made about the protection of people’s individual safety and the safety of others while enabling choice. Many comments were made about what information sources could be trusted and what was credible information in regard, especially to the health effects of vaccination. The social divide and individual circumstances were some other key themes.

Fourteen risk assessments were completed across the Department. A number of people expressed concerns about their own mental health.  The Department has said it is reaching out to those people separately if they have identified themselves. The PSA reminds members to access the Employee Assistance Program if they have concerns about their mental health.

The PSA was concerned about the time available for consultation and sought further time to meet with members. Your union also arranged to meet again with management. In attendance at this meeting were your local delegates Craig Wall, Anne Wilcox and Gavin Mann.

It was noted the Public Health Orders contain no directions for staff to be vaccinated. The Department countered it is utilising Work Health and Safety legislation in providing a safe work environment for employees.

At the moment, only staff who are coming into the office are being asked to provide details of vaccination status. There was discussion around who should be sighting the documentation and it was agreed a decision had not been made as yet to who that should be. The PSA advised it would not be appropriate for someone at Team Leader level to sight this information. The Department is leaning towards a register in People and Culture, but no decision has been made at this point in time.

The Department is still reviewing the feedback. In the meantime, staff are advised to follow the Crisis Controller emails.

We expect to have a further update on these matters for members by next week and will continue to advocate for and raise the concerns of PSA members.

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