HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELLNESS —
COVID-19: working under the new Traffic Light System In December 2021, Construction Health and Safety New Zealand (CHASNZ) released the revised COVID-19 Protection Framework Protocols and Guidelines for the Construction Industry. As of 3 December 2021, the new Traffic Light System (TLS) protocols replaced the individual Residential, Vertical and Horizontal Alert Level protocols, which were developed for the first COVID-19 lockdowns in early 2020. The COVID-19 Protection Framework Standards are the starting point guide for the construction industry. They indicate what actions need to be taken to plan for and work under restrictions that may be required to be implemented on-site. The Framework protocols are live working documents, and will be updated to coincide with the changing Government requirements. There are two versions of the Protection Framework, a shorter version and a longer (complete) version. Both contain the protocols with links to the resources and documents you need to guide you on how to apply the protocols on-site. The difference is the longer version contains all the resources you need (so you don’t have to click through to them via the links).
The shorter version (COVID-19 Protection Framework for Construction only) Pages two to four of this document take you through each zone/ colour of the ‘Traffic Light System’ (TLS) and identify what controls a business will need to implement under the TLS to operate. The following page five suggests additional controls that can be implemented where a risk assessment has been undertaken and vaccination is not required on-site. These suggestions are found on top of the controls listed in the red, orange and green alert levels. While not mandated controls, these suggestions aim to support safer site operations, that can be implemented where necessary, based on the outcome of individual site risk assessment(s). In addition, on page six you will find a page of ‘Supporting Resources’, allowing you to access the specific information you want and need in one place. It contains a list for employers and managers who are wanting to implement these protocols on-site, a list of guides for employees, alongside some helpful services and links.
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Lastly, ‘Site Signage’ page seven, gives you access to all site signage you will need on-site. You can select the required sign to download and print.
The longer (complete) version (COVID-19 Protection Framework for Construction plus supporting resources) If you have downloaded the longer version, you have access to all of the information mentioned above, with the additional supporting resources such as: • risk assessment flowcharts – all sites should undertake a risk assessment of their activities; this includes the risk of COVID-19. The risk assessments will help establish if a site requires vaccination to be mandated • contact type definitions - a breakdown of the contact types • contact classification process – information on what the worker should do • response plan flowchart • managers checklist • COVID-19 vaccination information • personal health flowchart • cleaning and hygiene and returning home after work guidance • safe practices when using face masks and gloves on site • a usable sign-in register • mental health how to guides, tips and assessments for employers and employees • posters and site signs • Frequently Asked Questions The above New Zealand COVID-19 Construction Protocols document should be used in conjunction with the COVID-19 – Standard for New Zealand Construction Operations document. These documents can be found and downloaded at: www.chasnz.org/covid19 or under the COVID-19 section of the NZCB members’ only Toolshed: www.nzcb.nz/members/covid-19-health-safety/
