All Bestway employees to get lateral flow tests

Lateral flow tests have been made available for all Bestway Wholesale staff as the wholesaler does its bit to fight Covid-19.

The cash and carry business is working closely with local authorities to try to make sure every member of team involved in delivering groceries to retailers and customers are regularly tested.

The tests will identify asymptomatic coronavirus cases, reducing contact within Bestway’s team and customers, and stemming the spread of the virus.

“Following the stats that more than 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,” said Managing Director Dawood Pervez.

“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.”

Other wholesalers, including Birchall Foodservice, have instigated similar lateral flow testing regimes and Pervez encourages even more to follow suit.

“I’d urge other businesses to consider lateral flow testing,” Pervez added. “It’s 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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