Alert Level 2 & 3 update
Following the Prime Minister's announcement on the 14th of August 2020, find out more about the extension of Alert Levels 2 and 3.
On this page
The Prime Minister announced this evening an update to COVID-19 alert levels:
- Auckland region: Extension of Alert Level 3 until 11:59pm Wednesday 26 August.
- Rest of New Zealand: Extension of Alert Level 2 until 11:59pm Wednesday 26 August.
For more information about the announcement, visit the COVID-19 website(external link)
Construction businesses can continue working under Alert Levels 2 & 3 - however they must follow health and safety protocols and guidance. Health and safety protocols at the current alert level.(external link)
It's very important for contractors, subbies and everyone who is permitted on and around sites to understand and work to these protocols.
The protocols are a 'living document' and will be updated as best practice develops and we receive further industry feedback.
Get help with the protocols and provide feedback(external link) - www.chasnz.org
We are pleased to note there has been a seamless transition over the last 48 hours since Auckland moved to Alert Level 3.
For more information about the building and construction industry during Alert Levels 1-4, please visit the building.govt.nz website. COVID-19 building and construction sector guidance.(external link)
You can also email info@building.govt.nz for any questions or concerns.
The Accord is working across industry and with sector membership organisations to support the sector through the COVID-19 alert levels, including addressing some of the emerging issues the sector has told us about.
Wearing of masks on construction sites
The CHASNZ protocols for Alert Levels 2 and 3 require face coverings as an appropriate control for close contact work (1-2 metres for Alert Level 3; and allowance for less than 1m for Alert Level 2).
Consistent with government recommendations masks should be worn on public transport for both Alert Levels 2 and 3.
The government may mandate masks in public and or in the worksite – the Protocols will be updated to reflect any changes as they occur. Construction organisations and activity must always follow government and Ministry of Health requirements.
Contact Tracing
As per the Level 2 and 3 Protocols, all construction sites must keep track of people entering and leaving the site for contact tracing purposes. This can be achieved through site registers. Use of the government COVID-19 app and QR code system is encouraged so that individuals can keep track of their movements – however sites must keep a register.
Inter-regional travel
Construction activity is able to be maintained under Alert Levels 2 & 3 when applying the relevant health and safety protocols. Given the differing alert levels across Auckland and the rest of New Zealand, travel into, out of, and through Auckland is heavily restricted while the city is at Alert Level 3.
You can only travel if you are returning to your primary residence - not to a bach or holiday home.
This means you should not be travelling into, out of, or through Auckland for construction work or business purposes.
Those who wish to request an exemption should contact Ministry of Health at: Covid-19policyresponse@health.govt.nz
Wage Subsidy
The wage subsidy(external link) will be extended to all New Zealand businesses. This will cover the time period of the Alert Level 2&3 restrictions.
Mental health and wellbeing
We understand this a stressful time for many people. For information and support please call the national Telehealth Service on 1737 , or visit Mates in Construction.(external link)