Standards Australia has long been a staple industry pillar for guidelines and best practice in several industry sectors, one of which is building inspection.
Building inspection and preparation for workers post COVID, is the latest topic that has been raised as important by Chief Executive Officer Adrian O’Connell; “We know that there is a lot to be considered when returning to a building, but it’s important environmental health is one that is not overlooked”. As some Australians return to work and others prepare to do so post the Covid-19 pandemic, it’s vital that workers understand the new restrictions but can also be protected in the best way possible through building inspection.
Building inspection big and small can now follow guidelines to follow for best practice to optimise the worker safety. Following the AS/NZS 3666 standard series, it can for example be important to properly flush out systems and get the building inspection adequately prepared for returning workers. This is not only the case for workers in fully finished buildings, but those still in the construction process too. Standards Australia mention the need for those buildings standing empty during lockdown especially to be properly prepared and safely flushed out. Several dangers such as mould, reduced air quality, microbial growth and corrosion in water systems await those that return to work unless action is taken. Due to the extended period of vacancy, systems being put into hibernation can sometimes acquire such unwanted side-effects.