Vaccination mandatory for WA resource workers

Western Australia has announced mandatory COVID-19 vaccination requirements for all FIFO (fly-in fly-out) and local workers on the state's mining and resource sites. Those workers and people who work in remote operations, or run critical infrastructure, including remote train and port control, must receive their first dose of the vaccine by December 1, and be fully vaccinated by January 1. The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies (AMEC) described the announcement as a significant shift in expectation and requirement by the government, but said member companies would, of course, abide by the mandate. “We share the Premier’s desire to ensure that in the event of a COVID-19 outbreak in Western Australia, that the mining industry is able to continue operating to support the State’s economy,” AMEC chief executive Warren Pearce said. Mr Pearce said AMEC and member companies had actively been encouraging the workforce to get vaccinated, for the health and safety of themselves, their families and their communities. A large percentage of the mining industry workforce had already done so voluntarily, he said.The requirement applies to any FIFO worker in WA in mining, oil and gas and exploration, visitors to these operations, as well as all resources sector employees who work at regional and remote mine sites and other mission critical operational locations including remote operations.“Now that this decision has been taken by government, should there be further outbreaks, exploration, mining and mining service companies with a fully vaccinated FIFO / DIDO workforce should be allowed to continue to operate, ensuring that our workforce can continue to work,” Mr Pearce said“Finally, it is important to recognise that some people in our industry may still be unsure about a vaccination. However, with the requirement not commencing until December, these workers will have time to consult a medical professional, get the correct information, and make an informed choice.” In Queensland, peak mining group the Queensland Resources Council said it strongly encouraged vaccinations across the sector to keep employees and communities safe from COVID-19. Chief executive Ian Macfarlane said the Queensland Government required all essential workers who traveled across the border to have at least a first dose of a COVID vaccination. "We will continue to be in regular consultation with the Chief Health Officer, Government and its departments to ensure all travel to and from worksites is performed under a strict set of protocols," he said. Mr Macfarlane said the QRC supported member companies making their own decisions about safe work practices including how to best protect employees and resources communities from COVID-19. "Many QRC members are running with their own campaigns at on-site operations and online," he said. "Some members are also incentivising employees to get vaccinated. Whatever the approach, the best defence we’ve got is to encourage vaccinations and maintain strict hygiene protocols as we’re all in this together."

Vaccination mandatory for WA resource workers

Industry Queensland

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