Swine Flu - be ready to deal with workplace impacts

The World Health Organisation has reported that the world is moving closer to an influenza pandemic, and recommends all countries prepare. A pandemic would directly affect many people's health and well-being, and potentially impact on workplaces.

In response, the New South Wales Government worked with the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) to develop a response to the threat of an influenza pandemic  in Australia through the National Action Plan. COAG has since published the Pandemic Planning in the Workplace [DPMC website] paper. 

To further assist employers and employees in New South Wales, NSW Industrial Relations has published a Guide and Fact Sheet to help employers and employees to plan ahead and be better equipped to respond in the event of an influenza pandemic.

The NSW Government encourages employers and employees to take a cooperative approach to managing their responsibilities in a fair and equitable manner. It is in everyone's interest for businesses to continue to trade and survive a pandemic whilst allowing people to manage their important and legitimate personal, family and community responsibilities.

This section outlines the practical steps to manage an influenza pandemic, responds to workplace questions that may arise and provides details of further resources to assist both employers and employees.