Queensland Health withdraws directive allowing Covid-positive nurses to return to work

Queensland Health has withdrawn a directive allowing Covid-positive staff to return to work after concerns it was dangerous and violated legislation.

Queensland Health has withdrawn a directive allowing asymptomatic Covid-positive nurses to return to work

The Queensland Nurses and Midwives Union took the decision to the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission.

A union spokeswoman said there were serious concerns a document issued to Queensland Health staff outlining the directive was inconsistent with the chief health officer’s direction and provided misleading information.

“In particular, it advises Queensland Health staff and employers that asymptomatic Covid positive staff can return to work if a HHS reaches a Tier 4 or Tier 5 health system response,” she said

“This is not a process outlined in the direction and dangerously normalises the idea that Covid positive staff can return to work if needed.”

The union wrote to the Health Minister requesting this document be immediately withdrawn.

“We also advised the Director-General of our concerns that the return of Covid-positive staff to the workplace was not only a breach of the direction but also a violation of work health and safety legislation” she said.

“In these circumstances our members would have been put at an increased risk of exposure to Covid-19, as would those you care for. “

The QNMU filed an urgent dispute with the QIRC yesterday and Queensland Health have today withdrawn the document.

“We’re committed to continuing to work with Queensland Health on a replacement document that accurately reflects the CHO Direction and conveys clear processes, “

Originally published as Queensland Health withdraws directive allowing Covid-positive nurses to return to work