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An outbreak of Covid-19 at Wincanton’s B&Q distribution centre in Swindon has seen the number of infected staff rise to a total of 16 today (24 August).

The company told motortransport.co.uk that another two staff members have tested positive, adding that all 16 are self-isolating. Wincanton has no plans to close the facility and has implemented a deep clean of the premises.

The outbreak at the distribution centre, which Wincanton operates on behalf of B&Q, closely follows an outbreak of Covid-19 at an XPO depot in Swindon earlier this month, which saw around 77 staff infected at its peak.

In a statement, a Wincanton spokesman said: “We can confirm that this morning, two colleagues at our Swindon B&Q distribution centre received a positive Covid-19 test result, and are self-isolating.

"Wincanton is currently undertaking local track and trace and cleaning procedures. This brings the total number of colleagues receiving positive test results to 16."

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The spokesman added: “In line with government 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.”

B&Q also confirmed the outbreak adding: “Wincanton is working closely with the relevant public health authorities, who have praised the social distancing measures in place at the Swindon distribution centre.”

Swindon is currently on the government’s coronavirus watchlist as the town continues to be an area of concern on the Public Health England list.

More than 1,200 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Swindon since the pandemic hit the UK, according to the latest figures.

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