COVID-19 Vaccination Policy for In-Person Work

Introduction

At Ausculture, the health and safety of our employees, clients, and community are our top priorities. In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and in line with public health recommendations, we have implemented a COVID-19 Vaccination Policy for all in-person work activities. This policy aims to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission within our workplace and ensure a safe environment for everyone.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors who engage in any in-person work activities at Ausculture's premises or any location where in-person work is conducted under the auspices of Ausculture.

Vaccination Requirement

1. Definition of Vaccine

• For the purposes of this policy, "vaccine" refers to full vaccination against the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) coronavirus disease with a vaccine approved or authorized by relevant health authorities (e.g., the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States, or the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in the European Union).

1. Full Vaccination

• Full vaccination is defined as having received all recommended doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, including any booster doses if required, and having completed the post-vaccination waiting period as specified by the health authorities (typically 14 days after the final dose).

1. Requirement for In-Person Work

• All employees, contractors, and visitors are required to be fully vaccinated to participate in any in-person work activities. This includes working on-site at Ausculture's offices, attending meetings, events, or any other face-to-face interactions related to work.

Proof of Vaccination

1. Submission of Proof

• Employees and contractors must submit proof of full vaccination to the HR department before commencing any in-person work. Acceptable forms of proof include vaccination certificates or cards issued by a recognized health authority.

1. Confidentiality

• All vaccination records and related medical information will be handled in accordance with privacy laws and Ausculture's confidentiality policies. This information will be stored securely and used solely for the purposes of ensuring compliance with this policy.

Exemptions and Accommodations

1. Medical Exemptions

• Employees who cannot receive the COVID-19 vaccine due to medical reasons may request an exemption. Such requests must be supported by valid medical documentation from a licensed healthcare provider.

• Ausculture will review all exemption requests on a case-by-case basis and may provide reasonable accommodations, such as remote work arrangements, where feasible.

1. Religious Exemptions

• Employees who object to vaccination on sincerely held religious grounds may request an exemption. Requests must be supported by appropriate documentation.

• Each request will be reviewed individually, and reasonable accommodations will be considered, where feasible.

Compliance and Enforcement

1. Non-Compliance

• Employees who do not comply with this policy and do not have an approved exemption may be subject to disciplinary actions, up to and including termination of employment.

• Contractors and visitors who do not comply will not be permitted to engage in in-person work activities or enter Ausculture's premises.

1. Regular Review

• This policy will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary to reflect changes in public health guidelines and the evolving situation of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion

Ausculture is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace for all. By requiring COVID-19 vaccination for in-person work, we aim to protect our employees, clients, and the broader community. We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of all staff members as we navigate these challenging times together.

For any questions or further information regarding this policy, employees are encouraged to contact the HR department.