Coronavirus, Education

In reply to the Hon. T.A. FRANKS (30 April 2020).

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing): The Minister for Education has advised:

1. Site leaders determine when a business-related risk assessment is to be undertaken.

The Department for Education has assessed the risk of COVID-19 across the organisation in collaboration with the advice of SA Health, and has put measures (controls) in place to mitigate the risks for all sites. This includes business continuity plans.

The department has not required risk assessments of individual schools to be provided centrally, as risks differ between sites. As per normal practice, the department has provided advice to sites to manage the risks associated with COVID-19 in line with health advice, and this is managed locally. Some sites have undertaken risk assessments for particular areas of concern. Typically, this is done through discussion with relevant employees.

The risks, and advice provided to control the risks, are reviewed at an agency level against Australian Health Protection Principal Committee and SA Health guidance. The department ensures the most current advice is provided to sites for implementation to manage risks.

2. The department has been clear that where an employee falls into a vulnerable category they are to be supported to work flexibly where possible or access leave.