Who can close my workplace if there is a pandemic?
An employer can close the workplace (i.e. require employees not to turn up for work) if they determine that there is no other way to manage the safety risks of the workplace.
Employers can also be required to close workplaces under the exercise of authority under the Health Act or the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act.
This advice is given as a guide. Employees and employers are advised to seek their own advice depending upon the circumstances they face.
Date Modified: Wednesday, 8 December 2010
Disclaimer: The content on this website covers common problems. It will not answer every question
and should not be used as a substitute for legislation or legal advice.State sector employers
and employees may be affected by some differences in the laws that apply to them (e.g. State
Sector Act 1988).The Department of Labour takes no responsibility for the results of any actions taken
on the basis of information on this website, nor for any errors or omissions.
