Covid alert at Stornoway building site

Two positive Covid cases have been linked to a building project in Stornoway.

The incident involves a pair of mainland workers who were employed at council-led project at Goathill.

They tested positive for the virus after leaving the island.

Both are employed by the same sub-contractor and are currently based on the mainland.

McLaughlin & Harvey - the main contractor - confirmed the two cases involved operatives related to the site.

Track and trace to identify people who were in close contact with the pair has been launched by NHS Western Isles with assistance from the contractor.

The contractor is also receiving advice from the health board over testing and the provision of self-use lateral flow testing kits which provide quick results.

A health board spokesperson highlighted no Covid cases have been recorded in the Western Isles.

They added: “We have been made aware of two individuals (non-residents) who had been on Lewis who tested positive on their return to the mainland.

“No individuals are self-isolating in the Western Isles as a result and the individuals who tested positive are both on the mainland.”

A comhairle spokesman said: “Anyone who was in close contact with these operatives are now self-isolating and will require to provide confirmation of a negative Covid-19 test prior to returning to site.

“The contractor continues to implement their Covid-19 safe operating procedures which have generally proved effective over the last 12 months.

“Amongst other things, this includes deep cleaning regimes and toolbox talks re-emphasising the importance of applying Covid-guidance at all times, including outwith site working hours, and in accordance with the Construction Scotland, Construction Leadership Council and government advice.”

Covid alert at Stornoway building site

20 April 2021