Coronavirus Australia: Coles new safety measures after two workers test positive for virus

After two Coles workers tested positive for COVID-19, the supermarket has introduced “over and above” hygiene practices in stores.

Coles has introduced stricter hygiene practices across stores after two workers in a Melbourne store tested positive for coronavirus.

One team member worked at the supermarket’s Brandon Park store in Mulgrave, Victoria while the other was an employee at the adjoining Liquorland store.

Both shops have undergone extensive cleaning “over and above” the recommendations from the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services (Department of Health), a Coles spokesperson said in a statement.

But in a swift move to ensure safety to staff and shoppers, Coles has adopted the new COVID-19 Hygiene Practices For Supermarkets released by the Federal Government this week.

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Two workers at the Mulgrave store of Coles in southeast Melbourne tested positive for coronavirus. Picture: John Grainger

This new document states all staff should “regularly wash hands” and avoid touching items such as cash and handbags while working.

However it stresses the risk of infection from touching surfaces, objects and cash is “extremely low” and that the use of protective masks and gloves are not necessary.

It also instructs shoppers disinfect their hands when entering using hand sanitiser that will be provided as well as wipe down trolleys/baskets with antibacterial wipes. You should also maintain distance of at least 1.5metres at all times between other shoppers.

“The two team members, who do not work together, are both isolated at home and team members who have come into close contact with them have been instructed to self-isolate and seek medical treatment should they display any symptoms,” a Coles spokesperson said.

The safety of our customers and team members is our most important focus and we continue to work closely with Federal and State Departments of Health and relevant health authorities to keep up to date with the latest advice.”

The Victorian Department of Health told news.com.au any places where public exposure had occurred are “extremely low risk” of transmission.

“Extensive testing has shown that people who have passed through places where there was a confirmed case, known as casual contacts, have an extremely low risk of transmission,” the spokesperson said.

“Victorians can be reassured that our actions are aimed at containing the spread of this virus.”

Earlier today, a Coles spokesperson told news.com.au it had “reinforced” hygiene practices in all stores following the confirmed virus cases, providing hand sanitisers for all team members and increasing the frequency of cleaning of bathrooms, kitchens and communal areas.

“In our stores we have also increased cleaning, including in high traffic areas such as the checkouts,” the spokesperson said.

Woolworths recently introduced plexiglass at tills to protect shoppers and staff. Picture: Supplied

Supermarkets across Australia have been taking the health of shoppers seriously in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Woolworths has implemented a raft of new safety measures, which include rotating checkout service operators every two hours to limit interactions, protective plexiglass screens at tills and a store greeter whose duties include sanitising shopping baskets and trolleys.

Customers are now also required to bag their own goods, in compliance with social distancing measures.

“The safety and health of our teams and customers remains our top priority as we continue to support the essential food and grocery needs of the Australian community,” Woolworths Supermarkets Managing Director, Claire Peters said.

The retailer previously announced it would be closing some self-service and express check-outs to ensure there was at least 1.5 metres between customers.

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