Coronavirus (COVID-19) update – 16 March 2020The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to spread across the globe.
The MMA is closely monitoring advice from Australian Government Departments and the World Health Organisation to provide you with up-to-date information concerning your work or business at the Melbourne Market.The critical piece of advice for Market users is, if you are feeling unwell, you should stay at home and seek medical advice. We ask that you do not attend the Market for work, or to purchase produce, if you are feeling unwell in any way.
Are there any restrictions in place for people entering the Market?
As of today, we are limiting access to the Market to only those carrying out essential core operations.
Non-essential visitors will no longer be able to enter the Market; for example, we are cancelling the ‘Children in the Market’ days that were scheduled during the upcoming school holidays.
We also ask that where possible any meetings with visitors are conducted via phone or video conference to limit the number of people coming to the Market.
Yesterday the Australian Government announced new measures to slow the spread of the disease, including mandatory 14-day self-isolation for all international travellers entering the country.
As of midnight Sunday 15 March all international travellers, including returning Australian citizens and residents, from any international destination, are to self-isolate for 14 days. This means if you have returned from overseas from Sunday 15 March, you will not be able to come to the Market for at least 14 days, even if you are feeling well.
You can visit the Australian Government’s Department of Health website for the most up-to-date information regarding self-isolation guidance.
How can I reduce the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19?
We all need to do our part to reduce the risk of contracting or spreading COVID-19.
Market users know their own businesses and what tasks need to be completed to maintain business operations; however, now is the time to think about how you can alter your daily tasks to minimise direct close contact with others around you.
Other practical ways individuals can help stop the spread include:
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water
- Regular use of alcohol-based hand sanitiser which is located throughout the Market
- Covering your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue when coughing or sneezing (discarding tissue immediately), or coughing or sneezing into your elbow
- Wiping down shared surfaces and equipment such as forklifts, point of sale equipment, phones and computers with sanitising wipes or disinfectant spray
- Limit handshaking, hugging, kissing hello or similar, with fellow Market users; a friendly wave is an appropriate greeting
- Where possible keeping a distance of 1.5 metres between yourself and fellow Market users
How is the MMA prepared for this threat?
The MMA has robust processes and systems in place to deal with situations like those presented by the spread of COVID-19.
We have already implemented several initiatives, including:
- Increased general cleaning schedules around the Market
- Increasing common-area toilet cleaning schedules to every two hours
- Displaying signage reminding market users to wash their hands regularly and thoroughly
- Installing additional hand sanitiser dispensers throughout the Market
- Limiting access to the Market to only those carrying out essential core operations
The MMA is continually monitoring the latest advice about COVID-19. We are taking a proactive approach and putting plans in place to help ensure everyone’s health and safety.
Who should I contact if I have further questions?
If you have any further questions, you can call the 24-hour security number, 0408 334 555. |
