There have been no recent changes to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements.
The primary care guidance for ongoing COVID- risks is available at Primary care guidance for the response to COVID-19 risks | health.vic.gov.au. The Victorian Department of Health’s public health advice continues to strongly recommend measures for mask wearing, isolation and retaining COVIDSafe Plans.
Employers continue to have a duty to provide and maintain, so far as is reasonably practicable, a working environment that is safe and without risks to the health of employees. This includes preventing risks to health (including psychological health) and safety associated with potential exposure to COVID-19. Like other occupational health and safety risks, it would be a decision for individual settings to assess what is reasonably practicable for their own workplaces and employees, with guidance provided being a strong indicator of meeting the standard of behaviour expected of a reasonable person in the employer’s position.
The current Department of Health PPE Guidance published on 21/11/22 and reviewed on 14/12/22 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) specific recommendations for COVID-19 | health.vic.gov.au states that given the diversity across, and within healthcare settings, the selection of PPE may require a practice-specific and flexible approach guided by evidence and local risk assessment. This guidance identifies the minimum PPE. Additional PPE may be used, as determined by other risk factors.
If in doubt about ongoing measures, seek advice from your medical indemnity insurer.