Fourteen B&Q workers test positive for coronavirus at distribution centre

B&Q has confirmed 14 members of staff have tested positive for coronavirus at a distribution centre in Swindon.

The DIY company said other colleagues at the centre in South Marston were told to self-isolate before testing negative for the bug.

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Those colleagues have now returned to work, the Swindon Advertiser reports.

A B&Q spokesperson said: “Our partner Wincanton can confirm that 14 colleagues at our Swindon Distribution Centre have received a positive (Covid-19) test result, and are self-isolating.

“Of the colleagues contacted through the local track and trace procedure, all self-isolated immediately and have received a negative test result to confirm it is safe for them to return to work.

“In line with Government’s guidance, Wincanton continues to take all the appropriate measures to ensure the safety of colleagues when on site.

“This includes thermal imaging cameras to detect temperatures, staggered shift timings, social distancing markings on the floors, access to PPE, thorough cleaning procedures, and a ban on non-essential visits to the site.”

Swindon currently has one of the highest Covid infection rates in the country, leading to fears it could be the next town plunged into lockdown.

Data from Public Health England this week showed Swindon had the 5th highest infection rate with 48.2 cases per 100,000, listing the area as one of concern.

Although that is the highest in the south of England, the local council insisted the outbreak is under control, and that enforcement of lockdown measures would be a “last resort”.

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It comes after a Royal Mail delivery office was forced to close in Swindon last month as several workers tested positive for Covid-19.

Hundreds of workers were sent home as a deep clean was carried out and thousands across six postcode areas were left without their post.

The Sun Online has approached B&Q for comment.

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