There are RATs, masks and a commitment to consult

Monash U’s “intent” is to provide rapid antigen tests and surgical grade N95 face masks to staff in “community-facing areas” which “will likely include teaching staff.” COO Peter Marshall announced the pandemic response first thing Friday.

The announcement met key demands from the campus branch of the National Tertiary Education Union (CMM January 27, 28). But it may not have gone far enough on calls for consultation.

Which could be why late Friday Phil Vaughan, the university’s human resources head announced “further consultation” with health and safety reps and staff before the “COVID Safe plan is complete.”