Implementation of rapid antigen onsite screening for workplaces
Businesses and workers should actively control against the transmission of COVID-19 while at work, including considering the application of a hierarchy of appropriate controls where relevant. The National COVID-19 safe workplace principles are available on the Safe Work Australia website.
RAT surveillance screening is just one of a number of tools and needs to be used in conjunction with other risk mitigation strategies and business continuity plans for COVID-19.
Key information on the implementation of rapid antigen screening for the workplace should be sourced from the Australian Government Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) document ‘COVID -19 Rapid Antigen Point of Care Testing - Guidance for implementation and checklist for business’.
Rapid antigen tests approved by the TGA are being used in many businesses industries as a workplace surveillance tool to screen people who do not have symptoms for COVID-19.
By using rapid antigen testing in this way, workplaces may detect COVID-19 in asymptomatic individuals and prevent exposure in the workplace.
COVID-19 rapid antigen screening tests are quick, easy and safe. Rapid antigen test results can be observed in 15 to 20 minutes.
More information on rapid antigen testing for business and industry is available at the links below:
Understanding and reporting rapid antigen test results
Visit the Rapid antigen testing page for information on understanding and reporting rapid antigen test results.
What rapid antigen testing kits should be used?
Devices that have not been approved by the TGA cannot be used in Australia. The TGA website includes a list of all registered rapid antigen test kits.
The TGA outlines its regulations around the sale of rapid antigen test kits and conditions of supply. The TGA website publishes frequently asked questions about the supply of rapid antigen tests, which should be reviewed before proceeding with rapid antigen testing.
The two key types of rapid antigen tests are:
- Point-of-Care (PoC) test that is implemented on-site and requires medical supervision.
- Self-test kits that can be done at home and do not require medical supervision
Your business should familiarise themselves with the differences between PoC tests and self-tests from either the Business.gov.au or TGA websites.
For more information on the TGA guidance contact COVIDtests@tga.gov.au or call 1800 141 144.
Procurement and ordering
Where businesses cannot commercially procure rapid antigen tests, SA Health can be contacted to assist with procurement, in line with the Prioritisation Decision Matrix (PDF 69KB).
Order forms: