What to do if Workers Test Positive for COVID-19

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As we continue to support industry and business to remain COVID-safe, we want to ensure employers and their workers who test positive for COVID-19 have the key information and resources they need.

Rules for workers who test positive for COVID-19

If a worker tests positive for COVID-19, they will need to self-isolate immediately for 7 days from the day they were tested, and not leave home or let anyone come into their home unless they live there.

A negative PCR (nose and throat swab) or rapid antigen test is not needed to leave isolation and return to work.

If they have a sore throat, runny nose, cough or shortness of breath after 7 days, they must remain in isolation until 24 hours after their symptoms have resolved.

People should wear a mask when near or talking to others, and avoid visiting high risk settings (health care, aged care, disability care or correctional facilities) for a further 3 days.

How a business will find out that a worker tests positive for COVID-19

A business owner or employer might be notified that a worker who has attended the workplace has tested positive for COVID-19 by:

  • the worker who has tested positive
  • an employer of a worker who visits the workplace
  • public health authorities.


If you run a business, you must notify SafeWork NSW if a worker has, or is likely to have, contracted COVID-19 at work and requires hospitalisation.

Business responsibilities to inform workers about a positive COVID-19 case

Employers should advise workers and contractors of the general situation, noting that the privacy and confidentiality of the person who tested positive for COVID-19 must always be maintained. Information provided should include:


Guidance is available for businesses with a worker who tests positive for COVID-19 on nsw.gov.au. You can also download a factsheet from NSW Health.

Thank you for your support to protect the community and help NSW stay open during this period.

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