Covid-19 cases close Balfour’s Hinkley plant

Balfour Beatty has closed a factory in Avonmouth near Bristol that makes concrete segments for Hinkley Point C, after 22 employees there tested positive for covid-19.

Those who have tested positive make up around a quarter of the 90-strong workforce employed on the site.

Balfour Beatty said it has been adhering to site operating procedures which are aligned to the government’s guidelines, including hygiene and cleaning measures, daily briefings on covid-19, two-metre distancing, and temperature checks for all individuals on arrival.

In a statement, the company said: “We can confirm that 22 employees working at our manufacturing facility in Avonmouth, Bristol have tested positive for covid-19 as of Monday 27 July.

“In response, we undertook a deep clean of the facility over the weekend and initiated the NHS’ Test and Trace procedure.

“Having engaged with Public Health England and Bristol City Council we have now taken the responsible decision to close the facility until further notice to reduce the potential further spread of covid-19.

“The NHS’ Test and Trace procedure has so far shown no impact on the Hinkley Point C main construction site, which the Avonmouth facility serves as part of the wider supply chain.

“We continue to engage with all those affected and remain committed to the health, safety and wellbeing of all those who work with and for us, as well as the general public.”