As the Government rolls out asymptomatic testing for businesses with essential workers or with employees who are unable to work from home, Bestway Wholesale, working closely with the local authorities, has implemented Lateral Flow Testing (LFT) available for all its staff who are needed to ensure groceries reach retailers and customers, working out of all depots and office locations.
Dawood Pervez, Managing Director for Bestway Wholesale reinforces the importance that the company places on keeping its employees, and customers, safe:
“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.
“By having the tests available and by testing staff on a regular basis we have both been able to maintain a safe working environment for our staff and for our customers to shop in.”
Bestway highlighted that with careful planning, the impact of undertaking LFT on the business has been minimal – it has been managed well without having a detrimental effect to its trade.
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 1 in 3 people have coronavirus without displaying any symptoms, meaning they could unknowingly spread the virus to others.
Pervez concludes: “I would urge other businesses to consider lateral flow testing. It is easy, straightforward and gives reassurance and confidence to both workers and customers. It is another step in our ongoing battle against Covid”.
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