The NSW government has expanded its $5000 fine for coughing and spitting to protect any worker after several incidents of checkout staff and transport personnel subjected to these "vile attacks".

From Monday, NSW Police will have the power to issue the hefty on-the-spot fine to anyone who coughs or spits at workers on-the-job or coming to and from their workplaces during the COVID-19 epidemic, after Health Minister extended a Ministerial Direction under the Public Health Act.

Supermarkets have been the scene of spitting attacks. Credit:Getty

"COVID-19 is every bit as dangerous as a weapon, so anybody who thinks it's funny to spit or cough on somebody are without doubt pathetic grubs," Mr Hazzard said.

The fine had only applied to frontline personnel including nurses, doctors, police, pharmacists and paramedics since it was introduced last week.