DET -Update on face masks

An updated COVID Schools Operations Guide was received by the College on Friday 26 February from the Department of Education.  The major changes in this update relate to the wearing of face masks in schools, with the directive of the Victorian Chief Health Officer now being:

• Face masks are no longer mandatory in schools, early childhood education and care services, and places of private study.
• Individuals aged 12 years and over must always carry a face mask – unless they have a lawful exemption.
• Individuals aged 12 years and over must wear a face mask when on public transport, school buses and when in taxis or ride share vehicles  – unless they have a lawful exemption.
• There are a number of lawful excuses for not wearing a face mask, including for staff and students who are unable to wear a face mask due to the nature of their disability. This includes students or staff who have a medical condition, such as a breathing problem, a serious skin condition on the face, or a mental health condition
• Face masks are strongly recommended for use by staff, students and visitors when physical distancing of 1.5 metres cannot be maintained. 
• A face mask must cover the nose and mouth. Face shields, scarves or bandanas do not meet these requirements.

Face masks at external premises

• Staff and students attending camps and excursions will be required to meet any face mask requirements of an external provider/venue, including transport providers, unless a lawful exception applies.

Hygiene

• Practice good hand hygiene, particularly before and after eating, after blowing nose, coughing, sneezing.
• Hand sanitiser is readily available in classrooms and at major indoor entry points. 
• The automated hand sanitiser machines are also in outdoor high traffic areas.

The most important action our school community can take to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19, is to ensure that any unwell staff and students remain at home and get tested, even with the mildest of symptoms.