18 workers removed from TAQA's Brae Field after seven positive Covid cases

More workers have been removed from North Sea oil platforms following positive covid cases.

Seven working in TAQA's Brae field have tested positive for the virus, resulting in 18 people who were identified as close contacts being removed from the platforms.

A further 54 people who may have shared helicopters with the infected have also been told to self-isolate.

A spokesperson for TAQA said:

“Seven individuals working in the Brae field have tested positive for Covid-19 after demobilising from two different platforms from 29th September to 6th October having developed minor symptoms. This includes three individuals from Brae Alpha and four individuals from East Brae. As a result, 18 individuals who were considered to have come into close contact with these individuals have since been notified and down manned from these platforms. In addition, a further 54 individuals who may have also come into contact with those infected from shared helicopter flights were contacted as part of TAQA’s response and advised to follow Scottish Government Test & Protect public health measures and quarantine at home for 14 days.

“Our main priority is to ensure the safety and welfare of everyone on board our platforms. Therefore, TAQA has decided to temporarily down man non-essential crew working on Brae Alpha and East Brae for a period of 7-10 days to further minimise the residual risk of Covid-19 transmittal. The exact numbers being down manned are currently being determined.

“We have clear procedures in place in relation to hygiene and social distancing measures on board and for handling suspected and confirmed cases of COVID-19. We continue to work with the relevant authorities and agencies to assess and respond to any Covid-19 related situations in line with UK Government and Health Protection Scotland guidelines.”