Fortescue employee cleared of coronavirus

March5, 2020 News VanessaZhou

A Fortescue Metals Group employee who works at the Christmas Creek mine in Western Australia has tested negative for coronavirus despite presenting symptoms.

The team member was tested after the symptoms were deemed to meet the Department of Health’s criteria.

The company has ensured travel guidelines, health and hygiene practices are followed by its teams, suppliers and contractors.

Team members who have travelled to Iran, mainland China, Italy and South Korea have been asked not to return to site or the Fortescue Centre for at least 14 days after travel.

“We have asked team members to advise of any other overseas travel prior to returning to site,” Fortescue stated.

“Non-essential travel to Fortescue sites has been postponed and international travel to a number of overseas countries has been restricted, in line with the federal government guidelines.”

A Fortescue employee with potential coronavirus symptoms will complete a health assessment checklist through on-site health specialists.

The company does not expect the virus to impact its production schedules, flights and rosters on and off site.

“Our office based teams are working as normal, with some teams in Shanghai and Singapore working from home,” the company concluded.