DHHS has released updated PPE guidance to reiterate the importance of disability workers, contractors and volunteers to maintain wearing face masks and eye protection and to refrain from non-essential direct client contact. This applies to all service provider settings across Victoria.

PPE for community services providers for prevention of Coronavirus - Sept 2020 [Word]

PPE for community services providers for prevention of Coronavirus - Sept 2020 [PDF]

Face shields alone are no longer considered appropriate protection from airborne particles of COVID-19.  A two week grace period will end on Monday, 12 October, from which time anyone using a face shield in lieu of a mask may be fined. Remember, face coverings are only effective when they cover the nose and mouth.

DHHS has guidelines in place for individuals unable to wear a mask and meet specified criteria. Further guidelines on PPE are available on the DHHS website.

As a reminder, all providers should continue to ensure:

• Correct decision making for PPE use against individual settings and levels of risk.
• P2N95 masks are fit-checked ensuring maximum protection
• PPE is applied and removed safely and disposed of in the correct manner, including during outreach visits
• Correct use of PPE by all staff regardless of whether their tasks involve direct contact with clients
• PPE supplies are maintained for onsite contractors and interpreters to ensure they are wearing the same standard of PPE as staff

The DHHS PPE guidance also includes a table to quickly identify the correct PPE for different needs for a quick visual reference.