WOODCHIPPER manufacturer GreenMech has implemented a stringent COVID-19 testing policy for its staff, thanks to support from a regional PPE supplier.

The firm, headquartered in Alcester, Warwickshire, has carried on working throughout the pandemic, and in order to maintain its production line has implemented stringent social distancing policies to keep staff safe and in work.

Recognising its challenge, supplier PPE for the UK recently donated 120 rapid COVID-19 tests to help GreenMech implement a new health and Safety policy to test all staff twice per week for the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Able to detect the presence of the virus within just 15 minutes, the antigen test issued by PPE for the UK is described as being one of the most accurate tests currently on the market. 

Aside from preventing any spread of the virus, the implementation of GreenMech’s new testing policy increases staff safety, while preventing any potential disruption to its production line.

Jonathan Turner, managing director of GreenMech, said: “Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic we have implemented stringent social distancing and safety measures to keep staff safe and in work, ranging from the provision of face masks and hand sanitisers through to changing where and how people do their jobs when on site to prevent close contact.

READ MORE: Man of Steele: A career in chainsaw carving

“We were keen to implement our own testing policy and after our health and safety representative completed the necessary training, we were delighted to receive a donation of rapid COVID-19 antigen testing kits from PPE for the UK. Aside from being incredibly quick and easy to use, the rapid testing policy provides us with that additional layer of staff safety, which ensures we can maintain our production line safe in the knowledge that everyone on site is COVID-free.”

Mark O’Sullivan, founder and CEO of PPE for the UK, added: “All British businesses, like manufacturers, have faced the same challenge of how best to keep their staff safe and in work so that operations are not impacted. In addition to social distancing measures, consistent rapid COVID-19 antigen testing is the best way to achieve this as it prevents asymptomatic cases from entering the workplace and unknowingly spreading the virus.  

“We are delighted to have supported GreenMech in the set-up of their own rapid testing policy and look forward to supporting many more businesses and organisations in implementing this additional layer of staff safety over the coming months, as lockdown restrictions start to ease.”

For more information, visit www.ppe4theuk.com and greenmech.co.uk.

Forestry Journal remains dedicated to bringing you all the latest news and views from across our industry, plus up-to-date information on the impacts of COVID-19.

Please support us by subscribing to our print edition, delivered direct to your door, from as little at £75 for 1 year – or consider a digital subscription from just £1 for 3 months.

To arrange, follow this link: https://www.forestryjournal.co.uk/subscribe/

Thanks – and stay safe.