How to engage an installer during Covid-19?

If you are looking to engage an installer for any reason during the Covid-19 pandemic there are certain ways to make yourself and the technicians feel safe. This will make a difference in the way you interact when it comes to on site engagement.

The federal, state and territory governments across Australia have implemented measures around how business operate and this will impact how quotes and onsite visits are handled.

At Compare Air Conditioning, we advise initially engaging installers can begin in the usual way – by phone or email. This way you can query what safety measures will be put in place and what you personally have to do in order to create a safe space for you and those working on your installation, service or repair.

Strategies for engaging with installers during the pandemic:

Prior to engagement in person…

1. Before calling to organise an onsite visit write down any questions and concerns you might have. Key questions you should ask installers include:
   • Will the technicians only bring essential tools?
   • How will tools be cleaned before the visit?
   • What are their policies regarding the virus?
   • Are they taking measures around hygiene practices?
   • What can you do to prepare prior to any visits?
2. Consider exploring options to generate a quote without an on-site visit, until restrictions ease further. During this unusual time, installers may be prepared to provide a quote based on floor plans and photos of your dwelling and electric circuit board. This reduces contact and possible exposure.
3. Ask the installers in advance if they are willing to abide by certain minimum safety precautions. For example:
   • Thoroughly wash hands before and after the on-site visit
   • Sanitise areas the technicians have had contact with
   • Facilitate payment by direct debit or credit card, not cash.
   • Maintain social distancing (1.5m, no shaking hands)
   • Use of personal protection equipment (PPE), including masks and gloves.
4. If you are in quarantine (for example, having recently returned from overseas) or if someone in your home is unwell or showing any symptoms, inform the installer immediately and delay it for 2 weeks.
5. Engage as much as possible by phone, email or other communication means (eg Zoom, Skye, MS Teams, FaceTime) about the job and what you are seeking help with. The more information that can be provided beforehand, the more efficient you’ll be able to be during the on-site visit.
6. Prepare your dwelling in advance, for example by removing any debris around where the outside unit may go

Our main message is not to be afraid to discuss your concerns. It is just as important to installers that everyone is safe, including their workers, as it is to you.

During site engagement…

1. Maintain safe distancing on-site. Try to remain 1.5m away from the technician and do not shake hands. Use a mask, if you have one available.
2. If possible, give the technician some space to inspect the property and then agree to a meeting spot in the garden or on the street.
3. Make a hygiene station so that technicians are able to clean their hands upon entry and exit of your property. Make sure you also follow this hygienic practice.
4. Sanitise door knobs, toilets and any high traffic areas before and after an onsite visit.
5. If you have children you may want to explain to them what the technicians are doing and why they are wearing masks, just in case it is a little scary for them.

Don’t forget to be patient during Covid-19. Engaging installers during times of restrictions can slow things down quite a bit and limit access to certain things. It’s best to be safe and use an installer who is familiar with precautions and how to implement them. This will not only keep you and your family safe but also allow technicians to do their work without putting themselves at risk. There are many who have gone the extra mile – ensuring their technicians have had flu shots or are temperature checked every morning before they are allowed to commence work.

And remember – despite being covered in protective equipment we are all still human beings underneath. It’s OK to ask how the technicians are, but minimise your face to face time so all parties can be as safe as possible. You can always follow up afterwards with any questions via phone, email or using an app.