Coronavirus: Employees' safety 'highest priority', says firm

It comes as a response to concerns about safe distancing practices at PPG Architectural Coatings in Kilroot Business Park.

One staff member, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed that the layout of the premises made it difficult to adhere to guidelines on social distancing.

Another queried whether the firm's operations fell under 'essential' services as defined last week by the Government.

A spokesperson for PPG said: "The health and safety of our employees, partners and customers is the highest priority for PPG. We continue to monitor the health of our global workforce and measures are being taken to protect PPG employees and customers, in accordance with global and regional government requirements.

"PPG is providing ongoing communications to employees; encouraging continued awareness of general hygiene and social distancing precautions; restricting travel and adjusting operations as appropriate. While the situation remains fluid, we will operate in accordance with regional government requirements.

"In areas where government or public health restrictions have been issued, we have closed our operations and have moved to a phone order fulfilment model with no-contact delivery or pickup in order to continue servicing any customer needs."

Last week, Economy Minister Dodds confirmed the establishment of a workplace safety engagement forum.

It will include a broad range of stakeholders including local businesses, PHA, HSE, trade unions, councils and government, she added.

“Under the current extraordinary circumstances, I understand the concern among both employees and companies," Minister Dodds said. "HSENI has received an unprecedented number of calls seeking information and raising concerns. Whilst I am pleased to report that many companies have taken the actions needed to put measures in place, others still need to do more.

“The guidelines are in place to help assist companies meet their legal duty to protect employees. At this time, more than any other time, it is essential that we work together for our greater good, for the protection of our workforce and of our economy.

“I am pleased to confirm that we are establishing an engagement forum - comprising key stakeholders and chaired by the Labour Relations Agency (LRA) - to discuss and review workplace safety and act as arbiter in any disputes. By working better together we can keep the workplace safe.”

Health Minister Robin Swann urged companies across Northern Ireland to prioritise the safety of their staff, whilst also reminding workers of their obligation to protect themselves and colleagues.

“Every one of us, in all walks of life, must play a full part in the fightback against Covid-19. Adhering to public health guidance is essential if we are to protect the health service and save lives," the Minister said.

“I want to thank all those companies who are doing the right thing and have the right measures in place. To those who are dragging their feet, I have to tell them that the time for excuses is long past.”

Meanwhile, Sensata Technologies indicated on Friday it was moving to a voluntary minimal operational workforce at its Carrickfergus and Antrim operations.

Larne's Caterpillar plant said it was "adhering to the Government’s guidance" in light of the ongoing pandemic.