Unions are threatening industrial action if employers do not agree to cover the cost of rapid antigen tests for staff, but business groups have already labelled the request "unworkable".

Dozens of unions met yesterday to consider a response to isolation requirements for workers in critical industries, that they fear will put employees at risk and accelerate the spread of the Omicron variant. 

Letters will now be sent to employers across the country demanding free RATs for workers, better quality masks and better ventilation.

Given current shortages of rapid tests, the unions say the push to cover rapid tests will only be made once they are more readily available.

The unions argue that rapid tests ideally would be provided free for everyone by the federal government, but until that happens the burden should fall to employers.

ACTU Secretary Sally McManus said it cannot be up to workers to buy tests to use in the workplace.

"We are on the side of small businesses saying they can't afford them," she said.

She said if employers cannot provide a safe workplace for staff — meeting the conditions the unions have set out — industrial action is an appropriate response.

"What we're pointing out is people's right to cease work if they are put in danger at work," she said.

"The union movement will absolutely stand with workers if they have to do that as a last resort. 

"This isn't just about keeping them safe; it's about keeping the whole community safe."

But Treasurer Josh Frydenberg criticised the idea, saying any strikes now would be "the wrong action at the wrong time".

"It would punish workers, it would punish businesses and ultimately it would punish Australian families," he said.

Mr Frydenberg called on Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese to "stand up" to the unions and stop any future industrial action.

Business groups and the federal government have both criticised the demands and the threats of industrial action that come with them.

The Australian Industry Group said the demand for free rapid antigen tests is unworkable, even once supply pressures start to ease.

AIG Chief Executive Innes Willox said unions clearly do not understand how businesses are currently coping.

"The idea that employers should bear the costs for potentially limitless test kits is unworkable and demonstrates the lack of understanding of the pressures businesses are under," he said.

"Many businesses are struggling to survive and to preserve the jobs of their employees."

Loading form...