Returning to work - COVID style

Returning to work - COVID style

LVML HQ

With the gradual easing of Victorian Covid restrictions underway, the landscaping industry is making a return to work in what is traditionally the busiest time of the year – the Christmas deadline.

With so many projects partially completed and delayed at the beginning of Lockdown 2.0, the pressure will be on to catch up and get ahead.

Site safety has taken on a new level importance with the continual threat of Covid outbreaks at any time. Landscaping and gardening services are safer than many other workplaces due the outdoor nature of the work, which is why business owners must remain vigilant about protecting the health and safety of staff and clients by not allowing complacency to creep in.

When the pandemic first reached Australia’s shores, LVML life member Brian Rankin shared some words of wisdom that are still pertinent now, many months later:

“Lead from the front. There are many things business owners can do to get the team behind them, but none quite like doing what you are asking your team to do. Set the lead in terms of hygiene, social distancing and general adherence to new workplace norms. This is going to be critical as one infection in one workplace with lazy attitudes could lead to a complete business closure and infection of the clients who have placed their trust in that company. This really is no time to be complacent and if the business owner is not true to the task, their staff will be less likely to.”

LVML have curated a range of information for our members (available on our members only Covid Business Advice webpage) to help them continue working or return to work safely and go above and beyond compliance requirements for worksite restrictions.

Before setting foot on a job site, landscaping business owners MUST have:

• A High Risk Covid Safe Plan in place

• Provided all staff working away from home with a Permitted Worker Permit LVML also recommends familiarising yourself with the following helpful tools:

• HIA Guidelines - Making Space on Site

• WorkSafe - Information for Employers

• WorkSafe Covid 19 checklist for employers

LVML members can also download our Site Signage Templates which can be displayed while undertaking permitted works on site.

Covid-safe workplace training will likely become mandatory in the near future.

Members can stay ahead of the curve by taking advantage of a special 25% discount offer on Deakin Co's WHS Covid Training.

This 40-minute online course has been designed specifically to help Australian workplaces ensure their staff are trained in safe working practices to limit the spread of infectious diseases such as the coronavirus. LVML Members, Visit the LVML Covid Business Advice Page to access this exclusive offer.

Covid has presented many challenges for landscaping professionals and created a great deal of stress throughout the industry, so let’s give the final word to Brian Rankin and remember why we are all so passionate about creating landcapes.

"Nothing brings a smile to a face like a garden so we are lucky that what we create can correspond directly to the wellbeing of our clients."

- Brian Rankin