Expanded testing criteria for Prison Officers/VSOs

The criteria for testing for COVID-19 continues to be expanded, especially for workers in high-risk workplaces such as prisons.

WAPOU encourages all members who are experiencing any of the following symptoms to not attend work until such time as you have been tested and cleared of COVID-19:

• presenting with a fever (≥38°C)
• a recent history of a fever (e.g. night sweats, chills) OR
• an acute respiratory infection e.g. shortness of breath, cough, sore throat.

If you have any of the above symptoms, go to your nearest clinic, tell them where you work and insist on being tested.   

Do not return to work until you are cleared to do so. All WAPOU members should be acutely aware of the risks posed if COVID-19 gets into a prison.  

Should you have any queries in relation to your entitlements while you are waiting on the outcome of your test, please contact your WAPOU Industrial Officer.