The bold move may be 'confronting' but it should encourage more confidence
The Tasmanian government has recently announced that from 12:01 am on 2 May, its revisions to close contact rules would be put in place.
The state’s residents who are classified as “close contacts” are no longer required to quarantine for seven days as long as they follow public health measures.
In a media release, Premier and Minister for Health Jeremy Rockliff said that the changes in rules “are in line with the national position in other states, public health advice, and the current epidemiological position.” Rockliff cites the “downward trend in cases,” saying that the state has “passed the peak of the recent COVID wave.
“While these changes will be confronting for some, they are another important step in our ongoing transition to live with COVID-19, and I want to assure Tasmanians that we will be doing this safely, sensibly, and in line with public health advice,” Rockliff added.
However, the Tas government clarified that close contacts would still be required to follow specific measures, and those who experience symptoms would still be asked to isolate and get tested immediately.
What HR should know
Close contacts must:
- Take a daily rapid antigen test;
- Wear a face mask when outside of the home;
- Advise their workplace of their close contact status; and
- Avoid high-risk premises such as aged care facilities and hospitals
According to the Premier’s media release, workplaces can assess the “appropriateness” of close contacts working from home but close contacts should avoid large gatherings, and avoid contact with those vulnerable to severe disease.
“The reason we are able to take these steps, and return to a more normal way of living, is thanks to the fantastic efforts of Tasmanians to roll the sleeves up and get vaccinated,” Rockliff said.
“However, while it’s encouraging to see 69 per cent of people aged 16+ and 84 per cent of people aged 50+ have had their booster, there are still more than 130,000 people who haven’t yet had a booster.”
Rockliff also reminded industries and employers that continued protection is a “community effort,” noting that “the most important thing you can do to protect yourself, your family and the community is turn up and get vaccinated when you are due.”
“We also continue to encourage people to be mindful that COVID continues to circulate within the community, and that it is all our responsibility to continue following COVID-safe behaviours.”
“Practice good hand hygiene, follow social distancing, test when you have symptoms, stay home when you are unwell, and wear masks where required to do so,” he said.
