Bestway has introduced lateral flow testing for all its staff who are needed to ensure groceries reach retailers and customers, working out of all depots and office locations.
Expansion of asymptomatic testing will identify more positive cases of Covid-19 and ensure those infected self-isolate, protecting those who cannot work from home and vital services. This programme is crucial given that around one in three people have coronavirus without displaying any symptoms, meaning they could unknowingly spread the virus to others.
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Dawood Pervez, managing director for Bestway Wholesale, said: “Following the stats that over 30% of all Covid cases are without symptoms, we identified the local Borough Councils in close proximity to all our offices and depots and included in our Covid Policy that we have the facility for asymptomatic testing provided by the local Councils.
“All of our staff are encouraged to be tested at the local Borough Council offices during work time, every two weeks. So far, we have been able to identify four asymptomatic members of our team. In these positive cases, (which were all in the same area), we have a rigorous policy of self-isolation, cleaning premises, and safeguarding other colleagues.
“The voluntary lateral flow testing is straightforward, quick and with results showing after 30 minutes, this enables us to take swift action should a member of our team test positive. In turn, it offers them reassurance that we are taking their safety seriously. Everyone has been willing and supportive in taking the tests,” he concluded.
