Legislative Council, Wednesday 16 November 2022

Ms FORREST question to LEADER of the GOVERNMENT in the LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, Mrs HISCUTT

1 In light of a new wave of COVID-19 infections and new strains of the virus; will the Government review and amend air quality regulations for indoor areas be reviewed and amended to require air quality that will reduce the risk of transmission of viruses including airborne viruses?

Answers:

1 In Australia the standards and requirements for ventilation and indoor air quality are contained within the National Construction Code which is adopted in Tasmania via the Building Act 2016 and administered by Consumer Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) within the Department of Justice.

The requirements of the National Construction Code are subject to ongoing review and amendment with this process overseen by the Australian Building Codes Board.

The mandatory ventilation requirements within the National Construction Code are supported by guidance and advice from both public health and workplace safety authorities. Detailed and practical advice is available for building managers and business operators regarding building ventilation with specific information relating to COVID-19 available via the coronavirus.tas.gov.au website and SafeWork Australia.

In Tasmania the Department of Heath encourages everyone to practice COVID-Safe behaviours, including:
o being up to date with vaccination
o staying home and getting tested if symptomatic
o covering coughs and sneezes
o regular use of hand sanitiser & hand washing
o physical distancing where practical
o ventilation of indoor areas