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Coronavirus outbreak at B&Q distribution centre after 14 staff test positive

Bournemouth, England - October 15th 2012: B & Q DIY Superstore on a bright sunny autumn morning at Castlepoint shopping centre, Bournemouth.
B&Q confirmed 14 workers had tested positive for coronavirus (Picture: Getty)

A B&Q distribution centre is currently dealing with an outbreak of COVID-19 after 14 staff tested positive for the virus.

The centre in South Marston, Swindon, is still open but workers who were exposed to the infection have been told to self-isolate.

Other employees at the warehouse who have tested negative have returned to work, according to the Swindon Advertiser.

Swindon is currently fifth in the list of highest infection rates after it reported 48.2 cases per 100,000 people last week.

If this number continues to rise there is concern it could be the next region to be given a local lockdown.

Swindon in Wiltshire has been flagged as an area at risk of local lockdown as the city continues to see an increase in cases of coronavirus (Picture: Getty)
Swindon in Wiltshire has been flagged as an area at risk of local lockdown as the city continues to see an increase in cases of coronavirus (Picture: Getty)

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.

“Wincanton is working closely with the relevant public health authorities, who have praised the social distancing measures in place at the Swindon Distribution Centre.”

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