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Coronavirus

This page provides information for NSW RFS staff and volunteers. For community information about COVID-19, check the NSW Government website.

This information was last reviewed and updated on 29 December 2021.

Current Arrangements

Due to the significant increase in COVID-19 cases across the State, the NSW RFS is putting a range of measures in place for the protection of our members and to ensure we can continue to respond to emergency incidents especially as we approach the peak of the fire season.

While there are high rates of vaccination across the community, there is significant risk to the ability for emergency services to respond to incidents due to isolation requirements when cases are detected.

In line with Government restrictions, masks are required in indoor settings.

For NSW RFS locations, the following restrictions apply from 27 December 2021. This will allow staff and volunteers to plan for these arrangements, and is when some activities are due to resume after the Christmas break.

  • Limited access for members of the public at NSW RFS locations including brigade stations, Fire Control Centres and office buildings however arrangements are to be in place to maintain service.
  • For all staff, alternate team arrangements will apply such as A/B teams, working in secondary locations or remotely. If a role cannot be performed remotely during your out of office week, you should discuss with your Manager. Executive Directors, Directors and Managers will work to establish these arrangements.
  • Brigades are also encouraged to consider A/B teams where appropriate to maintain separation between brigade members and to maintain operational response.
  • Essential visitors only are permitted at NSW RFS locations, such as for members of the public requiring urgent assistance or volunteers requiring equipment maintenance or replacement.
  • Activities such as meetings should be held online wherever possible.

These are in addition to existing measures including the requirement for members who are not fully vaccinated wearing a mask if responding to incidents, and the use of QR code check-ins at NSW RFS locations.

The Operational Communications Centre (OCC) is now working across two locations at Sydney Olympic Park and Cumberland to maintain service delivery.

Rapid Antigen Testing is in place at a range of NSW RFS locations. Rapid Antigen Testing kits are also available through an EOI process for use by Brigades, with additional supplies being pre-positioned at Area Commands offices. The RFS has ample supplies of these kits.

The Service understands the impact these restrictions may have on brigades and teams, and will continue to review health advice and regularly review these restrictions.

Vaccination status

All NSW RFS staff and volunteers are required to record their COVID-19 vaccination status with the Service. You can do this here.

The Service NSW app now displays your vaccination status as you check in to venues, such as NSW RFS locations. Follow these instructions to set it up.

In line with the Public Health Order, Brigade Officers and Executive members can ask to see a member’s vaccination status consistent with what an employer can ask to see.

Brigades and Senior Management Teams should now be consulting with members on vaccination requirements. You can find more information about this on One NSW RFS.

Working arrangements

Existing working arrangements continue to apply. Managers and Directors are working with staff to facilitate a gradual and safe return to the workplace.

Testing

Rapid Antigen Testing is now in place at priority locations, including NSW RFS Headquarters, the Dubbo Training Academy, air bases and base camps. If you attend a high priority location, you will be required to undertake a Rapid Antigen Test.

Information about our use of Rapid Antigen Testing is available here.

Additional information

Notification of COVID-19 cases or suspected cases for NSW RFS members

The NSW RFS COVID-19 Response Action Process outlines the process for all NSW RFS members regarding Coronavirus notifications.

This includes notifications of members with symptoms, confirmed cases, and for members who return from overseas and are required to self isolate.

Importantly, if you are feeling unwell, do not attend NSW RFS facilities, activities or incidents.

Download the NSW RFS COVID-19 Response Action Process. This document may change as the situation changes.

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