This Flu has currently been classified at the “contain” phase, (with the exception of Victoria).

“Contain” means the Pandemic virus has arrived in Australia causing a small number of cases and/or a small number of clusters, and the focus is on preventing the virus from spreading.

”Modified Sustain” involves varying responses when the containment phase is no longer viable.  For example, in Victoria the Government’s response has included quarantine and treatment measures. Increased community surveillance and increased sampling is also occurring.

Principles
Employers (if they haven’t already) should seek to develop a Business Contingency Plan (BCP) to address potential implications should a pandemic occur, as it is the employers’ responsibility to ensure a healthy and safe workplace. OHS legislation provides that you have a right to be consulted about OHS risks and to call on the assistance of the FSU. 

In the meantime here are some things you may want to check for in your workplace:

1. Is there a pandemic plan in place?
2. Has the Company designated a Contact Officer for Swine Flu enquiries?
3. Are you aware of the plans in place to contain the spread of the virus and to minimise disruption?
4. What consultative processes are in place to facilitate altered work arrangements to respond to any disruption and do they include the option for you to contact FSU?
5. Are plans in place to facilitate leave, in the event employees are unable to come to work?
6. In the event employees are asked to work from home, have the necessary steps been taken to prepare for this? That is, has a risk assessment been undertaken to determine whether the duties are suitable, the equipment is appropriate, the work site healthy and safe, etc?
7. Are mechanisms in place at work that regularly update you of developments? E.g. Company intranet, advice from your Team leaders, Notices on bulletin boards etc

If you need help raising issues about your employer’s pandemic plan (or the lack of one) simply call the FSU MRC for further assistance. 

You can also check out the Federal Government’s health website at www.healthemergency.gov.au or www.health.vic.gov.au for more information.