An open cut mine in the Upper Hunter has enacted its COVID-19 response plan after two people who were working at the site tested positive to COVID-19.
“Hunter Valley Operations (HVO) can confirm that two contractors working at the site’s Coal Handling and Preparation Plant (CHPP) have been identified as positive COVID cases,” HVO said in a statement.
“HVO immediately enacted their COVID-19 response plan after receiving notification on Friday evening and the site continues to follow this protocol, which includes contact tracing and deep cleaning in and around the CHPP.
“NSW Health has advised that they will notify any potential close contacts, who will then be instructed to undergo testing and remain isolated for 14 days.
“Casual contacts of the two workers will be advised to undergo testing and remain isolated until they receive a negative test result.
“HVO has worked over the weekend to shut down the CHPP while awaiting test results and will continue to follow the advice of health authorities in implementing appropriate protocols.”
Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD) confirmed a risk assessment of the exposure was underway.
HVO is a large-scale open cut operation located at Lemington, 24 kilometres north-west of Singleton.
All other activities at the site, including mining, maintenance and train loading, are continuing as normal.
Anyone with even the mildest of symptoms is urged to come forward and get tested.
A full list of testing sites can be found at: nsw.gov.au/covid-19/health-and-wellbeing/clinics
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