Tasmania Police, WorkSafe Tasmania to embark on Covid check-in compliance blitz

The launch of a three-day Covid compliance blitz aimed at people dodging check-in and businesses refusing to display QR codes saw two people issued with cautions. WHAT THE CRACKDOWN MEANS FOR YOU >>

The launch of a three-day Covid compliance blitz in Tasmania saw two people issued with cautions by Tasmania Police in the Hobart CBD on Thursday.

Together with WorkSafe, transport and health inspectors, authorities are keeping a vigilant eye on whether Tasmanians are using the Check In Tas app and businesses are displaying QR codes.

Work Safe Tasmania Inspector Glenn Duncan and Salamanca Fresh manager Terry Krambousanos during a routine Covid 19 business compliance inspection. Picture: Chris Kidd

If anyone is caught refusing to check in they face a fine of $778.50.

“We have heard some stories about patrons that are not checking in, but the majority of people are checking in,” said Inspector John Toohey.

“What I’ve witnessed is when I’ve seen someone who hasn’t checked in, I’ve gone up and we’ve explained to them to please check in and every single person for us has done that.”

Tasmania Police Sgt. Sarah Crabtree, Transport Safety and Inspection Mark Kramer and Work Safe Tasmania Inspector Glenn Duncan at Salamanca Square. Picture: Chris Kidd

WorkSafe Tasmania executive director Robyn Pearce said it was important all businesses complied with contact tracing methods, with the risk of the Delta strain creeping closer to Tasmania each day.

“By making sure we are checking in now, when it does hit us, because it is more than likely going to, we’re going to be able to follow up those contacts really quickly to try and get on top of Covid in Tasmania.”

The crackdown will also see inspectors monitoring the use of check ins for taxis and rideshares.

The second day of the blitz will be conducted in Launceston on Friday and Burnie on Monday.

Everything you need to know about the Check In Tas blitz

Tasmania Police will embark on a Covid compliance blitz this week, warning those who don’t want to follow the rules that they face hefty fines.

Together with WorkSafe inspectors, transport inspectors and environmental health officers, police are set to commence “three days of action” on Thursday, keeping a vigilant eye on whether Tasmanians are using the Check In TAS app and businesses are displaying QR codes as required.

People who refuse to check in face a fine of $778.50.

“We’ve been taking an educative approach for some time now and people have had time to adapt to the requirement to check-in, Tasmania Police assistant commissioner Jonathan Higgins said.

“Anyone who fails to check in, and then refuses to do so upon request, will face a fine.

“The days of action are about actively monitoring compliance and increasing awareness that this is not a choice and people must check in.”

WorkSafe Tasmania executive director Robyn Pearce said contact tracing made workplaces safer.

“Businesses that display the Check In TAS QR code and encourage their workers and patrons to check in will be able to demonstrate to WorkSafe inspectors that they have a method of contact tracing in place,” she said.

“It’s important that businesses, workers and patrons support each other by being Covid-safe to help keep Tasmanian workplaces and the community safe.”

The days of action will be conducted in Hobart on Thursday, August 26, in Launceston on Friday, August 27, and in Burnie on Monday, August 30.