Accommodation provider charged for alleged COVID-19 breach

Keyun Enterprises Pty Ltd has been charged with a breach of section 26(1) of the OHS Act in that it failed to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, that the workplace was safe and without risks to health.

Keyun Enterprises operated an accommodation business known as Comfy Kew Apartments in Kew and agreed to accommodate a number of homeless people as part of the Victorian Government's COVID-19 pandemic response.

On 28 September 2020 WorkSafe alleges the company failed to have a COVID-19 Safe Plan in place, failed to require contractors to sign in on entry and failed to require people entering the premises to wear a mask that covers the mouth and nose.

As a result of these failings it is alleged patrons and contractors at Comfy Kew Apartments were exposed to risks to their health and safety.

The matter is listed for a mention hearing at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 30 November 2021 and WorkSafe will not be providing further comment, as the matter is now before the court.

A number of other investigations relating to the control of COVID-19 related risks in workplaces remain ongoing.