Department of Education and Early
Childhood Development
Human Influenza Pandemic Incident
Response Procedures
August 2013
Prepared by
Emergency Management Division
Regional Services Group
Contents
Purpose ............................................................................................................................... 3
Influenza Pandemic Characteristics .................................................................................. 3
Impact on Schools and Early Childhood Services ........................................................... 4
Pandemic Planning ............................................................................................................. 5
National Context ................................................................................................................. 5
Victorian Action Plan for Human Influenza Pandemic ..................................................... 5
Department/Agency Responsibilities ................................................................................ 5
Department of Health – Lead/Control Agency ............................................................................... 5
Department of Human Services –- Recovery .................................................................................. 5
Victoria Police – Coordination ........................................................................................................ 6
Municipalities – Local focus ............................................................................................................ 6
DEECD Responsibilities ..................................................................................................... 6
Business continuity ......................................................................................................................... 6
Communications ............................................................................................................................. 6
Containment ................................................................................................................................... 7
School Nurse Responsibilities ........................................................................................... 7
Decision Making and Communications Paths ........................................................................... 8
Victorian Government Context........................................................................................... 8
Pandemic Stages ............................................................................................................................... 9
Appendix A ........................................................................................................................ 12
Appendix B ........................................................................................................................ 19
Appendix C ........................................................................................................................ 25
Appendix D ........................................................................................................................ 30
Appendix E ........................................................................................................................ 36
Appendix F ........................................................................................................................ 38
Appendix G ........................................................................................................................ 40
Page 2 of 40
Background
Purpose
All state government departments are required to have specific pandemic management plans in place
to manage the operational aspects of responding to and recovering from a pandemic. This
procedures document outlines the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development’s
response and is relevant to central office, regions and schools. It is also relevant to education and
care services and DEECD registered training organisations that provide vocational education and
training and Victorian Universities (herein referred to as ‘higher education and skills providers’) - all of
which are responsible to develop and implement their own emergency management plans including
pandemic response.
The information contained will also be provided to the Catholic Education Office and Independent
Schools Victoria for distribution to their sectors. DEECD will also coordinate with the Catholic
Education Office and Independent Schools Victoria regarding pandemic/epidemic response and
recovery activities.
DEECD’s Higher Education and Skills Group will disseminate information as appropriate to industry
associations for the vocational education and training sector (Victorian TAFE Association and the
Australian Council for Private Education and Training).
DEECD’s Emergency Management Division located within Regional Services Group is responsible for
the development and implementation of this plan (when required).
Influenza Pandemic Characteristics
An influenza pandemic occurs when:
 a new subtype of influenza virus emerges in humans which most people have not been
previously exposed to and are, therefore, highly susceptible

the virus has potential to cause disease in humans and

the virus is easily and rapidly spread between humans, infecting large numbers of people
worldwide with the potential to cause many deaths.
In late April 2009, the World Health Organisation (WHO) announced the emergence of a novel
influenza A virus. This particular H1N1 strain had not circulated previously in humans. The virus was
contagious, spreading easily from person-to-person, and from one country to another. Based on
available evidence and expert assessment, on 11 June 2009 the WHO’s Director-General declared
that the world was at the start of the pandemic (H1N1) 2009.
Globally, the 2009 influenza pandemic was considered to be of moderate severity with the majority of
patients experiencing mild symptoms and making a rapid and full recovery. However, severe cases
occurred in people with underlying chronic conditions such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular
disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders and obesity. Pregnant women and indigenous Australians
were also at an increased risk of serious disease.
It is difficult to predict how quickly a pandemic will progress. Based on experience from pandemic
(H1N1) 2009, together with data and assumptions drawn from previous pandemics and seasonal
influenza and their treatments, it is anticipated that a pandemic could last from seven-to-ten months in
Australia. However, the social, economic and health system impacts could last longer depending on
the severity of the health impacts of the virus.
It is not possible to predict when the next pandemic will occur, how severe it will be or how long it will
last.
Page 3 of 40
Whilst influenza is the most likely virus to cause a pandemic and the cause of the most recent
pandemic, the aim of this procedures document is to be adaptable to any biological agent threatening
to cause either an epidemic or a pandemic within the community.
Impact on Schools and Early Childhood Services
The spread of influenza in schools can be significant. Once influenza is in the school environment it
can spread quickly impacting families and the community. Therefore schools and early childhood
services play a major role in pandemic influenza preparedness and management.
Previous influenza pandemics have shown that children, and the environments in which they tend to
gather, contribute uniquely to the spread of influenza in the community for the following reasons:

Children typically have higher rates of infection than adults. Children with no pre-existing
immunity to circulating influenza virus are more susceptible than adults to novel strains.

Children are typically infectious for longer than adults.

Children are less likely to comply with hygiene measure than adults.

Children are often in close proximity with other children for long periods of time.
Page 4 of 40
Pandemic Planning
National Context
The Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet co-ordinates national pandemic preparedness and
planning in collaboration with state, territory, local governments and other Commonwealth agencies.
In the event of a pandemic it will direct the national response, including public communications,
through the Council of Australian Governments, the National Pandemic Emergency Committee and
the Commonwealth Deputy Secretaries' Inter-departmental Committee on Influenza Pandemic
Prevention and Preparedness.
The National Action Plan 2011 outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Commonwealth, states
and territories and local governments and the coordination arrangements for the management of a
human influenza pandemic and its consequences in Australia. The National Action Plan 2011 builds
on the health response outlined in the Australian Health Management Plan for Pandemic Influenza
2009 (AHMPPI).
Victorian Action Plan for Human Influenza Pandemic
The Victorian Department of Human Services, in close co-operation with the Victorian Department of
Health developed the Victorian Action Plan for Human Influenza Pandemic in June 2012. Its
approach builds on and is consistent with the National Action Plan 2011, the Australian Health
Management Plan for Pandemic Influenza 2009 and the Emergency Management Manual Victoria.
The Victorian Action Plan for Influenza Pandemic describes the arrangements and key strategies to
prepare for, respond to and recover from an influenza pandemic in Victoria.
This plan is consistent with the proposed revised stages of the Victorian Action Plan for Influenza
Pandemic. It is scalable depending on the circumstances of the contagion and the rate of spread and
morbidity. Strategies are flexible enough to operate in a dynamic and changeable environment.
Please note that the stages within this procedures document and Victorian pandemic stages may
differ to the phases or stages in other states and territories and under other global jurisdictions. The
Department of Health and Ageing and the Department of Health, in coordination with the World Health
Organisation will designate Australia and Victoria’s pandemic stages.
This plan will remain in effect until the scheduled changes in national and state influenza plans come
into effect and impending changes to the emergency management arrangements in Victoria are
made.
Department/Agency Responsibilities
Department of Health – Lead/Control Agency
The Department of Health is the lead agency for control of the response activities for incidents
involving human illnesses and epidemics, including a human influenza pandemic. In the case of an
epidemic, the Department of Health will provide overall direction and ensure that adequate planning
and logistics are in place to support the response to human influenza pandemic.
Department of Human Services –- Recovery
In the case of a pandemic, the Department of Human Services will coordinate recovery at state and
regional levels in Victoria. The Executive Director, Service Delivery and Performance (Department of
Human Services) is the State Emergency Recovery Co-ordinator and is responsible for co-ordinating
emergency recovery activities.
Page 5 of 40
Victoria Police – Coordination
If a pandemic is announced, Victoria Police will coordinate the activities of all agencies with
emergency roles. The Chief Commissioner of Police will be the State Emergency Response Coordinator. State government departments will work together to ensure activities are coordinated at all
levels.
Municipalities – Local focus
Local government is the closest level of government to the community and is often the first point of
contact for assistance, advice and information. It will play a key role in community preparedness,
particularly for the continued provision of essential community services such as water,
waste water, and waste management.
DEECD Responsibilities
If a pandemic strikes, DEECD will be responsible for managing the impact on the Department’s
workplaces, early childhood organisations and schools. DEECD will liaise with relevant state
government departments to ensure DEECD’s requirements are considered in response and recovery
arrangements.
Higher education and skills providers will be responsible for their own responses to a pandemic,
however, DEECD will liaise with these entities as appropriate and provide relevant communications to
assist them in responding to the situation.
Business continuity
DEECD business continuity planning identifies critical services required in the event of an emergency
or major disruption to service. In the event of a pandemic, it is predicted that up to 40% of the
population could be affected1.
The Audit and Risk Division, People and Executive Services Group has assisted in the development
of business continuity plans for divisions identified as performing critical functions and regions to
enable the continued delivery of identified critical functions.
Importantly, business continuity plans include response strategies and contingency arrangements for
situations where personnel may be unavailable such as in the case of a pandemic. DEECD’s
overarching business continuity management plan is currently under development.
Communications
Throughout all stages of a pandemic, DEECD will provide up-to-date and timely pandemic information
to its workforce, government schools, early childhood organisations, the Catholic Education Office,
Independent Schools Victoria and Higher Education and Skills Group (to forward to their providers
and Victorian TAFE Association and the Australian Council for Private Education and Training as
appropriate). At times, communications may focus on hygiene and containment activities that may
need to be undertaken in the event of a pandemic. Please refer to the communications strategy at
Attachment D for more details.
During the Response stage, national announcements or messages pertaining to the national
approach may need to be made. These will be made by the Prime Minister (or delegate), following
consultation with state and territories and relevant Commonwealth agencies.
1
AHMPPI 2009
Page 6 of 40
Containment
DEECD may need to ensure workplace safety through implementation of prevention and, as
appropriate, containment activities. DEECD will follow the advice of the Department of Health if
containment activities (eg social distancing in the form of closures) need to be implemented at the
school, early childhood or workplace level.
School Nurse Responsibilities
In the event of an influenza pandemic in Victoria, school nurses employed within the DEECD School
Nursing Program may be required to undertake a public health role in affected schools and early
childhood facilities.
In this instance, DEECD would deploy School Nursing Program staff to provide health information and
support to affected children and staff. Following advice from the Chief Health Officer in consultation
with region/s and DEECD’s Principal Medical Adviser, decisions would be made to mobilise school
nurses to an affected school or early childhood facility.
The Manager, Nursing Programs would be responsible for coordinating the state-wide operational
management of the school nurses in consultation with Regional Directors to determine allocation to
schools and early childhood facilities.
In the context of the 0-4 population, staff from the Maternal and Child Health line may be requested to
provide additional support for the maternal and child health nurses attending early childhood facilities.
Page 7 of 40
Decision Making and Communications Paths
Victorian Government Context
The diagram below represents decision making and communication paths in Victoria during a
pandemic.
Decision Making and Communications Paths – Victorian Action Plan
Prime Minister
Council Of
Australian
Governments
Premier
Victorian Decision Makers
National Decision Makers
Minister for Health
Department Of
Health and Ageing
(Commonwealth)
National health subcommittees on
influenza responses
Minister for Health
Security &
Emergencies
Committee of
Cabinet
Minister for Police
and Emergency
Services
Chief Health Officer
Central Government
Response
Committee
Victorian
Emergency
Management
Council
Commonwealth Decision
Makers
NOTE:
The Department of Health (DH) is the
designated control agency for responding to
a human influenza pandemic.
The nominated Incident Controller for DH is
the Chief Health Officer (CHO)
Chief Medical
Officer
National health subcommittees on
influenza responses
Victorian
Pandemic
Influenza Plans
Department of
Health
In the event of a pandemic the CHO will
occupy a chair on the Central Government
Response Committee
All Government Departments
State
State
Regional
Region/Area of
Operations
Local
Incident
Victorian
Emergency
Management
Arrangements
Community
Includes DEECD
Page 8 of 40
Pandemic Stages
The Victorian Department of Health has adopted a four-stage approach (Preparedness, Standby, Response,
Stand-down) to its operational plan. Please see table below.
Pandemic Stage
Description/Trigger
New novel influenza virus with pandemic potential has been detected. It is causing
PREPAREDNESS
severe disease in humans who have had contact with infected animals. There is no
effective transmission between humans. The novel influenza virus has not arrived in
Australia
Surveillance data indicates that the novel influenza virus is likely to impact negatively on
STANDBY
Australia in the short term. There may be human to human transmission of the virus in
or outside the country of origin
a.
Transmission of the novel influenza virus is occurring in Australia.
Limited specific details about the virus are available.
RESPONSE
b.
Community transmission of the novel influenza virus is occurring in
Australia. More details of clinical severity and transmissibility known
STAND-DOWN
Pandemic controlled in Australia
Incident Management Team Functions
The table below details associated functions to be undertaken by nominated/rostered personnel once a
central office Incident Management Team is activated.
Where Incident Management Teams are established in regional locations or worksites, the broad role
functions assumed by regional personnel will be consistent with those described below but will be scaled to
the region or worksite’s operations.
At school and early childhood sites, available personnel and the scale of the pandemic will influence how
roles are allocated.
Role
Function
Responsibility
Incident Controller

Emergency Management Division,
Regional Services Group





Assumes overall management
responsibility
Activates Incident Management Team
Manages the Ministerial interface regarding
the pandemic (with Communications
Division)
Identifies and liaises with relevant
stakeholders with Communications Officer
Ensures that briefings occur at all levels of
the incident management structure
Approves implementation of the Incident
Action Plan
Page 9 of 40


May acts as DEECD’s media spokesperson
in consultation with the Communications
Officer
Determines reporting frequency
Maintains incident management log

Manages:

Communications
o
o
Officer













Operations Officer







Logistics Officer

Communications Division, People and
Executive Services Group
Supports development and implementation
of the Incident Action Plan including
requirements for communicating with
employees, government agencies and
school and education and care services
communities
Develops rules on release of information
Identifies stakeholders with Incident
Controller
Develops and disseminates internal and
external key messages
Arranges stakeholder and media briefings
Monitors media
Confirms and liaises with nominated
spokesperson
Maintains incident management log


Planning Officer
internal communication
external communications
Collects and analyses information from
relevant central government departments
and agencies
Develops forecasts on the impact of the
pandemic on DEECD and its operations
Determines information requirements and
reporting schedules for Incident
Management Team
Develops appropriate reports (situation
reports) for internal and external distribution
Conducts internal and external situation
analysis
Coordinates development of Incident Action
Plan and monitoring its implementation
Maintains incident management log
Emergency Management Division,
Regional Services Group
Contributes to the development of the
Incident Action Plan
Controls all operations in accordance with
the Incident Action Plan
Initiates recommendations for release of
resources
Manages any pandemic response
requirements (eg liaison with School Nurse
Manager, supply of additional staff to
regions)
Liaises with Logistics Officer for required
resources
Obtains briefings/instructions from Incident
Controller
Maintains incident management log
Student Wellbeing and Engagement
Division, School Education Group
Supports incident management and has
responsibility for:
o
o
o
facilities e.g. telecommunications,
accommodation, etc
services e.g. information technology
support, catering, security, legal, finance,
etc
establishment of emergency call centre
(including training and recruitment of
Programs and Partnerships Division,
Early Childhood Development Group
Procurement Division, People and
Executive Services Group
Page 10 of 40
o



telephony staff)
materials e.g. records
Identifies resources and support required
for planned actions and contributes to the
logistics component of Incident Action Plan
Prepares logistics briefings
Maintains incident management log
Page 11 of 40
Appendix A
Emergency Management Division and Regional Managers, Operations and Emergency Management
Influenza Pandemic Actions
Preparedness - New novel influenza virus with pandemic potential has been detected. It is causing severe disease in humans who have had contact
with infected animals. There is no effective transmission between humans. The novel influenza virus has not arrived in Australia.
Response Category
Proposed Actions
Whole of government

Emergency Management Division will liaise with the state Department of Health and the Department of
Human Services as appropriate
Emergency
management plans

By the beginning of ‘flu season’ (April), Emergency Management Division will ensure its approach aligns
with national and state incident response plans

In April, Emergency Management Division will remind regions, schools and early childhood organisations
to review their emergency management plans and ensure pandemic planning is updated as appropriate

Central office and regions to have identified business areas that perform critical functions

Critical business areas to review business continuity plans

In April, Emergency Management Division will distribute and promote personal hygiene measures to
central office, regions, schools and early childhood organisations (refer to the communications strategy at
Appendix D for more details)

Information to be shared with the Catholic Education office and Independent Schools Victoria
Business continuity
Hygiene measures
*Higher Education and Skills Group to determine appropriateness of messaging for delivery to providers and
industry associations
Page 12 of 40
Communications

Emergency Management Division to work with Communications Division as appropriate to implement
preparedness stage of communications strategy including promoting personal hygiene messages (see
above), availability of vaccinations, etc
*Higher Education and Skills Group to determine appropriateness of messaging for delivery to providers and
industry associations
Standby - Surveillance data indicates that the novel influenza virus is likely to impact negatively on Australia in the short term. There may be human
to human transmission of the virus in or outside the country of origin.
Whole of government

Emergency Management Division (and Principal Medical Adviser) to continue to liaise with the state
Departments of Health and Human Services and seek advice re next steps and messaging to DEECD
staff, schools, early childhood organisations and parents
Incident management

The DEECD central office (and/or regional office) Incident Controller may brief potential Incident
Management Team (including Manager, Nursing Programs and/or Regional Nurse Manager(s)) and/or
decide to establish a central office/regional Incident Management Team
Emergency
Management Plans

Emergency Management Division will distribute national/state health messages and remind regions,
schools and early childhood organisations to review their emergency management plans and ensure
pandemic planning (including business continuity planning) is up to date
Business continuity

Central office and regions to prioritise work functions to ensure adequate workforce availability to deliver
critical services

Critical business areas to review business continuity plans

Emergency Management Division (in consultation with Communications Division) to follow Department of
Health/Department of Health and Ageing advice and distribute appropriate messaging (that may include
use of individual protective measures) to central office, regions, schools, early childhood organisations and
parents etc
Hygiene measures
Page 13 of 40

Information to be shared with the Catholic Education Office and Independent Schools Victoria
*Higher Education and Skills Group to determine appropriateness of promoting hygiene measures to providers
and industry associations as stated above

DEECD will follow the advice of the Department of Health/Department of Health and Ageing including
potential closure of services and other proposed social distancing measures

Closures should be advised to the Municipal Association of Victoria via an email to
emergencymgt@mav.asn.au
Vaccinations

At the advice of the Department of Health, DEECD to reinforce availability of vaccinations as appropriate
School nurses

Manager, Nursing Programs will review and update School Nursing Program deployment database in
case of activation
Travel

DEECD will follow the advice of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at
http://smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/ and provide approved travel advice to staff, schools and
early childhood organisations
Communications

Emergency Management Division to work with Communications Division as appropriate to implement
standby stage of communications strategy (for more details refer to Appendix A)

Emergency Management Division to liaise with central office Logistics Officer re readiness of emergency
call centre (if required)

The Communications Officer (central office Incident Management Team) may consider the establishment
of an Emergency Call Centre in the next stage of response if required and prepare scripts as appropriate
Containment
Page 14 of 40
Response - Transmission of the novel influenza virus is occurring in Australia. Limited specific details about the virus are available.
Community transmission of the novel influenza virus is occurring in Australia. More details of clinical severity and transmissibility known.
Whole of government
Incident management

Emergency Management Division to continue to liaise with the Department of Health, Department of
Human Services and the Department of Health and Ageing and seek advice re next steps and messaging
to DEECD staff, schools, early childhood organisations and parents
Mild, Moderate and/or Severe

The DEECD central office Incident Controller will establish a central office Incident Management Team (eg
including the potential appointment of a school nurse manager and business continuity manager)
Reporting

DEECD may assist with the collection of data as requested by the state Department of Health and the
Department of Health and Ageing
Emergency
Management Plans

Emergency Management Division will remind regions, schools and early childhood organisations to enact
emergency management plans (if and where required)
Business continuity
Mild and Moderate

Central office and regions to prioritise work functions to ensure adequate workforce availability to deliver
critical services

Critical business areas to review business continuity plans and be prepared to implement

Business Continuity Officers to report any issues Business Continuity Manager (to be confirmed)
Severe

Critical business areas to review business continuity plans and be prepared to implement them if required

Business Continuity Team Leaders report any issues to Logistics Officer (to be confirmed July 2014)
Page 15 of 40
Hygiene measures
Mild

Emergency Management Division will follow state Department of Health and Department of Health and
Ageing advice and distribute appropriate messaging (including appropriate use of individual protective
measures) to central office, regions, schools, early childhood organisations and parents

Information to be shared with the Catholic Education office and Independent Schools Victoria

Logistics Officer (Incident Management Team) to conduct quality review of existing cleaning and assist in
implementation of Department of Health /Department of Health and Ageing recommendations as required
Moderate

Emergency Management Division will follow state Department of Health/Department of Health and Ageing
advice and distribute appropriate messaging (including appropriate use of individual protective measures)
to central office, regions, schools, early childhood organisations and parents as appropriate

Information to be shared with the Catholic Education office and Independent Schools Victoria

Logistics Officer (Incident Management Team) to conduct quality review of existing cleaning and assist in
implementation of Department of Health/Department of Health and Ageing recommendations as required
Severe

Emergency Management Division will follow Department of Health/Department of Health and Ageing
advice and distribute appropriate messaging (including appropriate use of individual protective measures)
to central office, regions, schools, early childhood organisations and parents

Information to be shared with the Catholic Education office and Independent Schools Victoria

Logistics Officer (Incident Management Team) to conduct quality review of existing cleaning procedures
and assist in implementation of Department of Health/Department of Health and Ageing recommendations
(if applicable) which may include use of personal protective equipment
*Higher Education and Skills Group to determine appropriateness of promoting hygiene measures to providers
Page 16 of 40
and industry associations as stated above
Containment
Mild and Moderate

DEECD will follow the advice of the state Department of Health eg public access to premises, social
distancing, etc and scale-up or scale-down depending on the severity of the influenza determined by the
Department of Health)
Severe

DEECD will follow the advice of the Department of Health eg public access to premises, social distancing,
etc and scale-up or scale-down depending on the severity of the influenza determined by the Department
of Health)

Municipal Association of Victoria should be advised of closures via an email to
emergencymgt@mav.asn.au
Vaccinations

At the direction of the Department of Health, DEECD to promote availability of vaccinations as appropriate
School nurses

School Nursing Programs Manager will liaise with DEECD Principal Medical Adviser regarding scope and
severity and liaise with Regional Director(s) in affected region(s) to determine which schools and
education and care services require public health support
Travel

DEECD will follow the advice of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at
http://smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/ and distribute approved travel advice to staff, schools and
early childhood organisations
Communications

Communications Officer to work with Emergency Management Division as appropriate to implement
response stage of communications strategy including status/situation, promoting personal hygiene
messages, containment measures (if necessary), availability of vaccinations, and messaging to staff about
travel

The Communications Officer may consider the establishment of an Emergency Call Centre (in
consultation with the Incident Controller and the Logistics Officer), particularly if the incident is considered
severe
Page 17 of 40
Stand-down - Pandemic controlled in Australia.
Whole of government

DEECD to follow directions of lead agency with a view of returning to ‘business as usual’
Incident management

Incident Controller de-activates Incident Management Team and conducts final debrief(s)
Reporting

DEECD continues reporting (as required)
Emergency
Management Plans

Review effectiveness of Emergency Management Plans and update as appropriate
Business continuity

Work areas to implement business continuity plans for resumption of full business activity
Hygiene measures

Logistics officers (or equivalent) to replenish personal protective equipment
Containment

DEECD to follow the containment advice of the Department of Health/Department of Health and Ageing (if
applicable)
School nurses

School Nursing Programs Manager to conduct final debrief (s)
Travel

Information to be based on Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at http://smartraveller.gov.au/zwcgi/view/Advice/
Communications

Information to focus on local status, incorporating Department of Health and Department of Health and
Ageing advice
Page 18 of 40
Appendix B
Influenza Pandemic Actions for Schools
STAGE 1 PREPAREDNESS AND STAGE 2 STANDBY
New novel influenza virus with pandemic potential has been detected. It is causing severe disease in humans who have had contact with
infected animals. There is no effective transmission between humans. The novel influenza virus has not arrived in Australia.
Surveillance data indicates that the novel influenza virus is likely to impact negatively on Australia in the short term. There may be human to
human transmission of the virus in or outside the country of origin.
Response
Category
Emergency
management
plan preparation
Actions
Comments
 In April, ensure emergency management plans are up to date and pandemic planning
arrangements are included
 Ensure contact lists of staff, students, families, local services – Department of Health, Department
of Human Services, Local Government Emergency Management Coordinators are up to date
 Ensure your call tree of key staff is circulated along with nominated school Incident Management
Team members
 Prepare to enact pandemic section of emergency management plan with stakeholders and school
Incident Management Team
 Identify minimum requirements and key staff for continued school operations (including planning
for the absence of the principal and school council)
Hygiene
measures
 Promote basic hygiene measures within schools (posters are provided every April by the
Emergency Management Division, Regional Services Group) including:
o Regular hand washing with soap and water
Page 19 of 40
o
o
o
Appropriate home-based exclusion from school among children with flu-like illness and
their non-school-aged carers and siblings
Covering mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
Careful disposal of used tissues
 Provide students, faculty and staff with information about the importance of hand hygiene (see
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/handwashing_why_it's_important)
 Provide convenient access to water and liquid soap and/or alcohol-based hand sanitiser
 Educate employees and students about covering their cough to prevent the spread of germs (see
the germ stopper posters developed by DEECD)
 Communicate the risk of influenza and how to identify cases of possible influenza based on the
current up to date case definition by the Chief Health Officer, Department of Health
Travel
 Follow the advice of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at http://smartraveller.gov.au/zwcgi/view/Advice/
 Where appropriate, implement procedures to repatriate Australian students who are overseas if
there is a risk of travel restrictions and overseas border closures, or risk of pandemic in a nearby
country
 For international students studying in Australia, provide advice to students and their parents that in
the event of an increased influenza pandemic risk, students may be sent home and, if travel
restrictions apply, how the school will meet its duty-of-care obligations, etc
Communications
 In April, ensure hygiene information eg posters provided by the Emergency Management Division,
Regional Services Group (central office) are displayed
 In late autumn/early winter hold briefings with school staff, students and parents (as appropriate)
about:
o influenza symptoms
o best practice hygiene measures
o vulnerable children
Page 20 of 40
 Follow Department of Health/Department of Health and Ageing advice provided by DEECD and
distribute consistent messaging to staff, students and parents/carers, etc.
 Communicate status/situation, personal hygiene measures, availability of vaccinations and travel
messages to staff, students and parents/carers as appropriate (especially those people/families at
a greater risk of infection)
 School Nursing Program nurses may assist with information dissemination (provided by the
Department of Health) as directed by Regional Nurse Managers (based at regional offices).
 Prepare sample letters for parents for next stage with advice from DEECD (if required)
 Direct media queries to the DEECD media unit on 9637 2871
STAGE 3 RESPONSE
Transmission of the novel influenza virus is occurring in Australia. Limited specific details about the virus are available. Community
transmission of the novel influenza virus is occurring in Australia. More details of clinical severity and transmissibility known.
Response
Category
Proposed Actions
Emergency
management
plan enactment
 Enact emergency management plans where necessary
Containment
 Follow the advice of the Department of Health and DEECD regarding containment activities and
exclusion periods for infectious diseases
Comments
 Activate school Incident Management Team
Page 21 of 40
 Help lower risk of exposure by reducing non-essential school interactions and minimising
attendance at mass gatherings such as sports days and school fetes
 If required, identify a designated area to keep sick students quarantined from the general school
population until they can be taken home by parents
 School nurses may be asked to assist the Department of Health in the distribution of antiviral
medication at the direction of Regional Nurse Managers (based in regions)
Outbreak
management
 Report confirmed incidents of influenza via Security Services Unit on 9589 6266
Management of
school
workforce
 Encourage staff who develop flu-like symptoms during a pandemic to stay away from school until
completely well
School closures
 Contact your Regional Director regarding schools closure policy
 You will be advised of any additional reporting requirements by DEECD and/or the Department of
Health
 Ensure staff who develop influenza-like illness at school leave immediately and seek medical
attention
 Schools, if required, may be closed by:
o the Regional Director in consultation with the Chief Health Officer, Department of
Health
o the school council, with the approval of the Regional Director
 If required to close, advise the Security Services Unit on 9589 6266 and the Manager, Operations
and Emergency Management in your region
 Inform teachers of their obligations during school closures
 For students at home, provide access to educational materials including online learning
Page 22 of 40
Travel
 Follow the advice of the Department of Health and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at
http://smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/
Communications
 Follow the advice from DEECD and distribute information about individual protective measures
and school cleaning procedures
 Communicate status/situation, personal hygiene measures, containment measures (if necessary),
availability of vaccinations and travel messages to staff, students and parents/carers as
appropriate (especially those people/families at a greater risk of infection)
 School Nursing Program nurses may assist with information dissemination as directed by
Regional Nurse Managers (based at regional offices)
 Communicate plans for closure if applicable and send letters to staff, parents and carers as
appropriate
 Direct media queries to the DEECD media unit on 9637 2871
STAGE 4 STAND DOWN
Pandemic controlled in Australia.
Response
Category
Emergency
management
plan review
Proposed Actions
Comments
 Develop a recovery plan to help regain education of students and stabilize families and the
community including:
o staff availability
o procedures to re-open (if applicable)
o provision of counselling to students and staff (if required)
Page 23 of 40
o
monitoring cumulative effects of pandemic and identifying and supporting those who
may need assistance
 Replenish personal protective equipment (if required)
 Incident controller to de-activate Incident Management Team and conduct final debrief(s)
 Review effectiveness of Emergency Management Plans and update as appropriate – involve
relevant staff and others eg school nurses
 Be aware that multiple waves of the virus may occur and that review and revision of the plan may
be required between waves
Travel
 Continue to follow advice of Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade at
http://smartraveller.gov.au/zw-cgi/view/Advice/
Communications
 Communicate status of situation to staff and parents/carers including supports that may be
available
Page 24 of 40
Appendix C
Influenza Pandemic Actions for Education and Care Services
STAGE 1 PREPAREDNESS AND STAGE 2 STANDBY
New novel influenza virus with pandemic potential has been detected. It is causing severe disease in humans who have had contact with
infected animals. There is no effective transmission between humans. The novel influenza virus has not arrived in Australia.
Surveillance data indicates that the novel influenza virus is likely to impact negatively on Australia in the short term. There may be human to
human transmission of the virus in or outside the country of origin.
Response
category
Emergency
management
plan preparation
Actions
Comments
 In April, ensure emergency management pans (including emergency numbers and key contacts) are
up to date and pandemic planning arrangements are included
 Ensure contact lists of staff, students, families, local services – Department of Health, Department of
Human Services, Local Government Emergency Management Coordinators are up to date
 Ensure your call tree of key staff is circulated along with nominated school Incident Management Team
members
 Prepare to enact pandemic response section of emergency management plan with stakeholders and
prepare to activate Incident Management Team
 Identify minimum requirements and key staff for continued operations (including planning for the
absence of the director)
Hygiene
measures
 Promote basic hygiene measures
Page 25 of 40
 Review cleaning procedures and determine whether frequency or other processes should change
 Communicate the risk of influenza and how to identify cases of possible influenza based on the current
up to date case definition by the Chief Health Officer, Department of Health
Communications
 In April, ensure hygiene information is displayed (refer to Staying Healthy in Childcare (2005))
 In May, consider providing information sessions for staff and parents about:
o pandemic influenza symptoms
o preferred hygienic practices
o vulnerable children
 Communicate status/situation, personal hygiene measures, containment measures (if necessary),
availability of vaccinations etc to staff and parents/carers as appropriate (especially those
people/families at a greater risk of infection)
 School Nursing Program nurses may assist with information dissemination
 Direct any media queries to the DEECD media unit on 9637 2871
STAGE 3 RESPONSE
Transmission of the novel influenza virus is occurring in Australia. Limited specific details about the virus are available. Community
transmission of the novel influenza virus is occurring in Australia. More details of clinical severity and transmissibility known.
Response
Category
Emergency
management
Proposed Actions
Comments
 Enact emergency management plans where necessary
Page 26 of 40
plan enactment
 Activate Incident Management Team
Containment
 Follow the advice of the Department of Health and DEECD including service closures and exclusion
periods for infectious diseases
 Identify a designated area to keep sick children quarantined from others until they can be taken home
by parents
 Following any closures, notify:
o The Quality Assessment and Regulation Division according to the requirements of the
relevant legislative framework. Further information is available at
www.education.vic.gov.au/childhood/providers/regulation
 Inform carers of their obligations during closures
 School Nursing Program nurses may be asked to assist the Department of Health with the distribution
of antiviral medication at the direction of the Regional Nurse Manager (based in regions)
Outbreak
management
 Notify the Quality Assessment and Regulations Manager of a serious incident according to the
requirements of the relevant legislative framework. Further information is available at
www.education.vic.gov.au/childhood/proividers/regulation
 You will be advised of any additional reporting requirements by DEECD and/or the Department of
Health
Management of
workforce
 Encourage staff who develop flu-like symptoms during a pandemic to stay away until completely well
Service closures
 Contact the Quality Assessment and Regulations Manager regarding service closure policy
 Ensure staff who develop influenza-like illness to leave immediately and seek medical attention
 Following any closures, notify:
o The Quality Assessment and Regulation Division according to the requirements of the
relevant legislative framework. Further information is available at
www.education.vic.gov.au/childhood/providers/regulation
Page 27 of 40
 Inform staff of their obligations during service closures
Communications
 Follow the advice from the Department and distribute information about individual protective measures
and cleaning procedures
 Communicate status/situation, personal hygiene measures, containment measures (if necessary),
availability of vaccinations to staff and parents/carers as appropriate (especially those people/families
at a greater risk of infection)
 Communicate plans for closure if applicable and send letters to staff, parents and carers as
appropriate
 Direct any media queries to the DEECD media unit on 9637 2871
Page 28 of 40
STAGE 4 STAND DOWN
Pandemic controlled in Australia.
Response
Category
Emergency
management
plan review
 Proposed Actions
Comments
 Develop a recovery plan for return to normal operations which includes:
o staff availability
o procedures to re-open (if applicable)
o provision of counselling (if required)
o monitoring cumulative effects of pandemic and identifying and supporting those who may
need assistance
 Incident controller to de-activate Incident Management Team and conduct final debrief(s)
 Review effectiveness of Emergency Management Plans and update as appropriate – involve relevant
staff and others eg school nurses
 Replenish personal protective equipment (if required)
 Be aware that multiple waves of the virus may occur and that review and revision of the plan may be
required between waves
Communications
 Communicate status of situation to staff and parents/carers including supports that may be available
Page 29 of 40
Appendix D
Influenza Pandemic Communications Strategy
Introduction
This communications strategy supports the Pandemic Incident Response Procedures document.
Communication Coordination
As Victoria’s control agency, the Department of Health is the lead agency for control of the response
activities for a human influenza pandemic. The Department of Health will provide overall direction
and ensure that adequate planning and logistics are in place to support the response to a human
influenza epidemic.
The Department of Human Services will coordinate recovery at state and regional levels in Victoria.
If the pandemic reaches the Standby stage, a national information campaign may be activated by the
Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing to alert the public that the likelihood of an influenza
pandemic has increased.
In the case of a human influenza pandemic, DEECD will work closely with these key agencies and
internal stakeholders (including DEECD’s Chief Medical Officer and the Department of Health’s Chief
Health Officer) to plan and coordinate a consistent communications response regarding pandemic
influenza issues.
Target Audiences
This communications strategy primarily focuses on the information needs of DEECD central office,
regions and schools. It will also apply to early childhood services funded and/or regulated by DEECD
(herein referred to as ‘early childhood organisations’) and DEECD registered training organisations to
provide vocational education and training and Victorian Universities (herein referred to as ‘higher
education and skills providers’). This strategy will also include communications to the Catholic
Education Office and Independent Schools Victoria.
This strategy may also be used by the Higher Education and Skills Group to provide appropriate
information to higher education and skills providers (and industry associations, if appropriate) who are
responsible for developing and implementing their own pandemic response plans as independent
legal entities.
Communications Approach
During the Preparedness stage, communications activities will build awareness and understanding
around the risk of a human influenza pandemic.
Throughout most of the Standby stage, the communication strategy will ensure that target audiences
have access to clear and current information that supports actions to minimise the risk of illness.
Activities during the Response stage will focus on minimising the impact of influenza on vulnerable
people.
Activities
during
the
Stand-down
stage
will
focus
on
returning
to
normal
business.
Communications Response according to Phase
Page 30 of 40
Preparedness stage
Preparedness
stage
New novel influenza virus with pandemic potential has been detected. It is
causing severe disease in humans who have had contact with infected
animals. There is no effective transmission between humans. The novel
influenza virus has not arrived in Australia
Key Communications Objectives
Communications activities during the Preparedness stage aims to build a base level of awareness
and understanding across the target audiences regarding the threat of an influenza pandemic.
Key Messages will explain





What is an influenza pandemic.
The current disease situation (where appropriate).
Basic hygiene measures that will help restrict the spread of any influenza virus.
Why it is important that eligible people get vaccinated.
Where to get further information.
Communications Tactics
DEECD website and internal eduGate site
The DEECD external website and internal eduGate site will inform central office, regions, early
childhood organisations, schools and higher education and skills providers (and industry associations
as appropriate) about health measures, warnings and the current situation. It will include information
and/or links to:
 NURSE-ON-CALL 1300 606 024 (24 hours, 7 days a week)
 Maternal and Child Health Line 132 229 (24 hours)
 Doctor, local community health centre or emergency department of nearest hospital
 Victorian Government Health Information
http://www.health.vic.gov.au/pandemicinfluenza/index.htm

Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing

http://www.flupandemic.gov.au/internet/panflu/publishing.nsf
World Health Organisation http://www.who.int/en/
Posters
Posters will be made available for corporate (central and regional staff) and all schools and early
childhood organisations. They will be able to be downloaded from the internal eduGate site and
included in any DEECD mails/circulars and made available to the Catholic Education Office and
Independent Schools Victoria.
The Higher Education and Skills Group may make these posters available as appropriate to higher
education and skills providers (and industry associations as appropriate).
DEECD mails/circulars
DEECD mails/circulars will be sent out at the beginning of ‘flu season’ i.e. mid-April reminding staff of
good hygiene practice.
Inspire magazine
Page 31 of 40
Beginning mid-April, Inspire magazine will contain articles about the importance of good hygiene
measures and where to obtain information and posters for students/children.
DoHA Free call information line (1800 004 599)
The Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing information line will be available to all
individuals who wish to seek further information.
Standby stage
Surveillance data indicates that the novel influenza virus is likely to impact
Standby stage negatively on Australia in the short term. There may be human to human
transmission of the virus in or outside the country of origin.
Key Communications Objectives
Communications activities during Standby stage will aim to ensure that the target audiences have
access to clear and current information that supports actions to minimise the risk of illness.
Key Messages will explain






Facts about the virus presenting the pandemic threat - symptoms and mode of infection.
Strategies to help protect individuals and prepare for and respond to the threat including school
and/or early childhood facility closures.
Information about what to do if staff think they have or know of a new strain of influenza.
The importance of practising prevention and containment strategies to slow the spread of the
disease.
What the government is doing to contain the threat.
Where to get further information.
Specific Messages for School and Early Childhood Staff
As above plus specific information about:


personal protective measures
the procedures for identifying and managing students with pandemic influenza or a new strain of
influenza
Communications Tactics
DEECD website and internal eduGate site
The DEECD external website and internal eduGate site will be updated to inform central office,
regions and schools, early childhood organisations and higher education and skills providers (and
industry associations as appropriate) about the current situation. It will also include information and/or
links to:
 NURSE-ON-CALL 1300 606 024 (24 hours, 7 days a week)
 Maternal and Child Health Line 132 229 (24 hours)
 Doctor, local community health centre or emergency department of nearest hospital
 Victorian Government Health Information
http://www.health.vic.gov.au/pandemicinfluenza/index.htm

Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing

http://www.flupandemic.gov.au/internet/panflu/publishing.nsf
World Health Organisation http://www.who.int/en/
Page 32 of 40
DEECD mails/circulars
DEECD mails/circulars will be sent out providing information.
National Information campaign (first phase)
During this phase, a national information campaign may be activated by the Commonwealth
Department of Health and Ageing to alert the public that the likelihood of an influenza pandemic has
increased. DEECD will communicate consistent national messages and may assist to distribute any
additional resources made available.
DoHA Free call information line (1800 004 599)
The Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing information line will be available to all
individuals who wish to seek further information.
Response stage
Response
stage
Transmission of the novel influenza virus is occurring in Australia. Limited
specific details about the virus are available. Community transmission of
the novel influenza virus is occurring in Australia. More details of clinical
severity and transmissibility known.
Key Communications Objectives
Communications activities during x stage will inform and reinforce the need for the appropriate actions
to minimise disease transmission and support the maintenance of essential community services that
may include schools and early childhood facilities.
Key Messages will explain

Any school and/or early childhood facility closures.

Facts about the pandemic virus, symptoms and modes of infection.

Personal protection, prevention and treatment options.

The importance of practising prevention and containment strategies to slow the spread of the
disease.

What you need to do if you think you have influenza.

What the government is doing.

What services and support is available.

Availability and access to anti-viral medication.

Where to get further information.
Specific Messages for School and Education and Care Services Staff
As above plus specific information about:

the procedures for identifying and managing students/children with pandemic influenza.
Page 33 of 40

what the government is doing to contain infection
Communications Tactics
DEECD website and internal eduGate site
The DEECD external website and internal eduGate site will be updated to inform central office,
regions, schools, early childhood organisations and higher education and skills providers (and
industry associations as appropriate) about the current situation. It will include information/links to:
 NURSE-ON-CALL 1300 606 024 (24 hours, 7 days a week)
 Maternal and Child Health Line 132 229 (24 hours)
 Doctor, local community health centre or emergency department of nearest hospital
 Victorian Government Health Information
http://www.health.vic.gov.au/pandemicinfluenza/index.htm

Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing

http://www.flupandemic.gov.au/internet/panflu/publishing.nsf
World Health Organisation http://www.who.int/en/
DEECD mails/circulars
DEECD mails/circulars will be sent out providing information about the current situation.
National Information Campaign (second phase)
Once human-to-human transmission has been established a second national information campaign
may be implemented to provide information on the situation and to encourage appropriate disease
containment practices. It may also convey information around the Government response and what to
do if individuals become ill.
DoHA Free call information line (1800 004 599)
The Department of Health and Ageing information line will be available to all individuals who wish to
seek further information.
Stand-down stage
Stand-down
stage
Pandemic controlled in Australia.
Key Communications Objectives
Communications activities during the Stand-down stage will support restoration of public confidence
and a return to more normal living and working arrangements.
Key Messages will explain

The containment of the pandemic.

What support services are available for people who were affected by the disease.

What the government is doing to minimise any future disease outbreaks.

Where to get further information.
Communications Tactics
Page 34 of 40
DEECD website and internal eduGate site
The DEECD external website and internal eduGate site will be updated.
DEECD mails/circulars
DEECD mails/circulars will be sent out providing information.
DoHA Free call information line (1800 004 599)
The information line will continue to be available.
Page 35 of 40
Appendix E
Nursing Programs Manager tasks
On notification of an influenza pandemic, the central office Incident Controller, in consultation
DEECD’s Principal Medical Advisor will appoint the Manager, Nursing Programs, Programs and
Partnerships, as the key liaison with regional health staff.
The Manager, Nursing Programs with support from the central office IMT will undertake tasks
including:
1.
Making contact with the Regional Director in the affected region/s to determine the number of
schools and education and care services requiring public health support.
2.
Once resourcing requirements are clear and confirmed, the Manager, Nursing Programs will
activate the Nurse Deployment Database and contact nursing staff with deployment
arrangements.
3.
Nursing staff who confirm availability for deployment (see below) will be placed on a duty roster.
This roster will be developed to adequately address the resourcing requirements of the affected
region/s, and should cover a minimum of two to four working days at a time.
4.
The Manager, Nursing Programs, with support from central office IMT will need to contact
Regional Director/s and Regional Nurse Managers from the regions where school nurses will
be drawn from, to inform them of the planned deployment.
5.
At all times the Manager, School Nursing Programs, will liaise with the central office Incident
Management Team and senior medical staff from the DEECD and the Department of Health to
confirm the status of the pandemic and the potential impact on the region/s.
6.
Once the roster is complete and staff to be deployed are confirmed, the Manager, School
Nursing Programs will, following advice from DEECD’s Principal Medical Advisor and in
consultation with affected region/s, set a date, time and place to conduct a pre-deployment
brief. Prior to deployment, the Manager, School Nursing Programs will arrange for a briefing to
be conducted by the Regional Nurse Manager in the affected region. The content for the
briefing will need to be approved by the Regional Director.
7.
The pre-deployment briefing will contain information relating to:
a. where staff are to be deployed - schools and education and care services
b. the activities that school nurse staff will be undertaking
c. who to report to on site
d. human resources details such as length of shift(s), remuneration, accommodation,
transport and on-site support arrangements
e. what to take and what to expect – see deployment checklist at Attachment X
f. contact details of the Manager, School Nursing Programs and the DEECD Principal
Medical Advisor and appropriate regional staff.
8.
Once staff is deployed, Manager, School Nursing Programs will contact the region to ensure
that all staff members have been briefed and deployed appropriately.
Deployment requirements
School nurses who nominate for deployment will be drawn from the DEECD Nurse Deployment
Database. These staff members hold a current registration with the Nurses Board of Victoria. All
nurses employed in DEECD’s funded programs are registered Division 1 nurses.
Page 36 of 40
Knowledge and skills required for pandemic management and public health support will be updated
with advice from the Chief Health Officer, Department of Health, relating to the required role of school
nurses in a pandemic.
This will be coordinated in conjunction with DEECD’s Principal Medical Advisor. These include:

detail of the pandemic, symptoms and impact of spread of the virus

an understanding of public health and infection control.

an understanding of the service system, and referral capacity

administration of medication if appropriate

provision of prepared health information.
Page 37 of 40
Appendix F
Nursing Role Statements
Role Statement –Manager, Nursing Programs
Reports to: Incident Controller, in conjunction with the Principal Medical Advisor.
The Manager, Nursing Programs, will be required to undertake activities that could include:

coordinating the deployment of school nurses to affected schools and education and care
services.

liaising with the regional emergency management coordinator in the preparation of the daily
situation report.

managing the nurse deployment database and roster in accordance with current workplace
agreements to provide adequate workforce coverage.

providing input to, and feedback from emergency management meetings.

ensuring that appropriate regional and local briefing and debriefing processes are in place.

ensuring the distribution of updated medical advice to relevant health staff.
Role Statement - Regional Nurse Manager
Reports to: Regional Director and Manager, Nursing Programs
Liaises with: Operations and Emergency Management Manager in Region and/or Regional Incident
Controller
The Regional Nurse Manager is based in the region and will:

be the contact point for the Manager, Nursing Programs in relation to school nurse deployment in
a region

allocate school nurses to an area and provide them with an initial briefing

liaise with principals and student wellbeing teams in schools as required

manage school nurse human resource requirements, for example: travel reimbursement, leave
applications

ensure that briefing and debriefing mechanisms are accessible to school nurses as required

monitor workloads to ensure school nurses’ health and wellbeing

provide day-to-day support/supervision to the school nurses as required

liaise with Regional Incident Management Team to ensure coordination and consistency

provide feedback to regional emergency management coordinators and ensure Incident
Management Team members are updated as required

arrange debriefing of all the school nurses who are deployed in their region with specialist
debriefing services if required.
Page 38 of 40
Role Statement - School Nurse
Reports to: Regional Nurse Manager
The school nurse will work in schools and early childhood facilities affected by the pandemic and will
provide health services that include, but are not limited to:

the administration of prescribed oral medication

appropriate referral for students and staff

providing public health advice and information to school staff, parents and students concerning all
aspects of a pandemic

supporting school communities to address pandemic health and social issues with community
based health services

providing the Regional Nurse Manager with regular updates on resourcing, emerging issues,
completed activities and other information relevant to the deployment environment

self-monitoring workload to maintain health and wellbeing

liaising with principals and student welfare teams in schools as required throughout the duration
of the deployment and the recovery process.
Page 39 of 40
Appendix G
School Nurse deployment checklist
In the event of influenza pandemic that impacts on a region/s, school nurses on the Nurse
Deployment Database may be deployed to provide health support. If a school nurse is deployed the
following checklist is provided to support this role:

take personal requisites with you

familiarise yourself with surroundings and resources

take and wear appropriate clothing

carry and display the correct identification

attend briefing and debriefing sessions – briefing before you start your shift – briefing may be
carried out by your manager or be part of the daily all-staff briefing and debriefing when your shift
ends – this should be conducted immediately off-shift and separate from the work area

provide information updates to the Regional Nurse Manager as required throughout the shift and
at the end of a shift

ensure you have access to required requisites to undertake your emergency management role

agree on adequate workspace and access to medication storage - Regional Nurse Manager to
negotiate as required

take regular breaks - specified in accordance with existing workforce agreements, preferably to be
taken out of sight wherever possible

eat and drink properly

get plenty of rest

seek emotional support if or when required

access adequate transport arrangements
reimbursement/access cards etc

make regular contact with your family.
-
e.g.
the
use
of
cab
charges/parking
Page 40 of 40