Covid update: What forestry businesses need to do

Unfortunately New Zealand is back at Alert Level 2 until at least midnight on Friday 14 August, and the Auckland Supercity is at Alert Level 3. The Covid-19 forestry protocols are still on the Safetree website and are still current. See the protocols

Here are some updates to that information:

  • Businesses must display government NZ COVID Tracer App QR codes – as soon as possible and by midday 19th August
  • They must also have systems in place to support contact tracing for people who do not scan in with the app (like a pen-and-paper register)
  • People are encouraged to wear face coverings where physical distancing isn’t possible.
  • A face covering must be worn on flights out of Auckland.

Other key actions for Level 2 stay the same:

  • Stay home if unwell
  • Sneeze and cough into your elbow
  • Wash hands often
  • Maintain 1m physical distancing at work and 2m in public places. (Face coverings are encouraged when this isn’t possible.)

Getting a QR Code

You can get a QR code poster for each of your premises using the webform here.

To use the webform, you need:

  • A New Zealand driver’s licence to confirm your identity
  • The address of each of your premises or worksites
  • Your email address
  • An email address and contact phone number for each of your premises/worksites.
     

You need to create a separate poster for each unique worksite. Your can print as many copies of each poster as you need. Print your posters in A4 and in colour (if possible). Display them in prominent places near the entry to site sheds or buildings.  See more about QR codes here.

See more about the Covid Tracer app, including how to download it, here

Preparing for other alert levels

On an operational level, discussions are underway with the Ministry of Primary Industries regarding the ability of forestry to continue to work if any regions become Alert Level 4. The forestry sector responded positively and collaborated in developing and implementing appropriate protocols which are still current. Given this sound approach, and the remote nature of the majority of operations, it is appropriate for the forestry industry to advocate to continue to operate alongside others in the primary sector, and this is being done.

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