COVID-19 in non-healthcare workplace settings in NSW, Australia

Abstract

Objectives: To describe patterns of SARS-CoV-2 transmission in non-healthcare workplace settings during the first six months of COVID-19 spread, in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Methods: Locally acquired COVID-19 cases between February 2020 and August 2020 were reviewed to determine the: total number of workplace-associated cases and clusters; workplace type; and modes of transmission. Results: There were 72 COVID-19 workplace clusters with 231 cases and an additional 11 workplace-acquired cases who were not part of a cluster. Workplaces most associated with clusters included construction, manufacture and trade (31%, 22 clusters), office and clerical (25%, 18 clusters) and retail (14%, 10 clusters). Most transmission events were best explained by direct transmission, with two workplace clusters demonstrating evidence of partial indirect spread. Conclusions: Findings demonstrate workplace settings, particularly construction, office and retail settings have heightened risk of transmission. Implications for public health: The risk of infectious disease transmission is well understood for healthcare workers, despite other workplace types representing higher volumes of workers with less risk controls. This study should assist policy makers and the public to understand COVID-19 transmission in workplaces and the heightened risks associated with certain workplace settings.