Using COVID-19 rapid antigen tests in your business

The two key types of COVID-19 rapid antigen tests are:

• point-of-care (PoC) tests
• self-tests.

• Point-of-care (PoC) tests can be purchased by contacting test suppliers (sponsors) directly. You can find a list of approved suppliers on the TGA website.
• Self-tests can be purchased online or in chemists and supermarkets. Find a list of approved products on the TGA website.

The Australian privacy legislation has specific clauses relating to medical and health information. If you're considering PoC testing, it is important you know your legal requirements relating to data collection and relevant use of private health data.

Unless rapid antigen testing is required under a specific law such as a public health order or to comply with obligations under WHS laws, there is otherwise no general requirement for employers to implement a rapid antigen testing program into their workplaces.

It's important for employers to understand all of their legal and consultation obligations before implementing testing requirements for their employees. If you employ people you should consider getting legal advice to help you decide what is the best approach for your workplace.

As a general rule, you should follow the instructions provided with your home use test on how to dispose of it. Some tests come with a plastic bag for placing the contents of the swab etc into before placing this in the household rubbish bin.

If you are testing at your business premises and disposing of a large number of tests, you may need to comply with your state or territory waste management rules.

Rapid antigen tests are one way of monitoring and protecting your business against COVID-19, but it should not replace other measures such as hand sanitisers, masks and social distancing.

If you plan on introducing a rapid antigen testing program into your business, you should consider how it will fit with your overall COVID-19 emergency management plan.