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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 21 February 2022.

Current Arrangements

The NSW Premier announced on 17 February 2022 some changes to COVID-19 restrictions, which means some changes for RFS members.

Brigade activities
Normal brigade activities, including meetings and training, can resume with COVID safe practices in place. We still encourage training to take place outdoors where possible. Previous restrictions which limited visitors (e.g. members of the public) to RFS locations are now lifted.

In addition, any member who has not verified their vaccination status will be required to continue to wear a mask when at an RFS location, when travelling in RFS vehicles or during any essential training activities.

Confirmed COVID-19 cases
In the event of a confirmed COVID-19 case at an RFS location, the Response Action Protocol remains in effect.

Current arrangements for Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) will remain in place across all high-priority settings including the HQ for the remainder of the fire season.

Rapid Antigen Testing kits are 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.

Masks and other COVID safe practices
Masks are not mandatory in office settings from 25 February 2022 (but remain mandatory in some other settings, including public transport, correctional centres and aged and disability care settings).

In addition to those members who are unable to verify their vaccination status, we strongly encourage wearing a mask where you cannot maintain a safe distance from others and to protect vulnerable people we come into contact with – e.g. AIDER visits, visitors to RFS locations.

In addition, AIDER visits should continue to operate under the current contactless arrangements, with mandatory wearing of a mask when interacting with members of the public.

QR check-in codes
In line with NSW Government rules, QR check-ins will no longer be required for staff, members or visitors at RFS locations. However, QR code posters should remain in place across RFS buildings in case we need to revert to using them.

Vaccination status and recording

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

In coming weeks, we will be working to make it even easier for volunteer members to prove their vaccination status, such as showing it to your Brigade Captain (or delegate) who can affirm it on your behalf.

The Service NSW app now displays your vaccination status so you can show your proof of vaccination. 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.

Working arrangements

All RFS staff will be returning to their normal working arrangements by Monday 28 February 2022, with our Operational Communications Centre (OCC) resuming usual operations from Sydney Olympic Park from Monday 21 February 2022.

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

  • Do not attend incidents or NSW RFS locations if you are unwell. Get tested if you feel sick with COVID symptoms, you are advised directly by NSW Health to have a PCR test or you are a household contact of a positive case. Check testing locations here.
  • Members are again reminded about the availability and increasing importance of vaccines. Check for availability and book online.
  • Check www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19 for the latest on restrictions which may apply in your area including testing and the wearing of masks.
  • Support materials, including advice on working remotely, is available at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/connect
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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