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Fortescue worker returns positive COVID-19 test

Decmil

The Western Australian Department of Health has advised Fortescue Metals Group that a maintenance contractor at its Cloudbreak site has returned a weak positive test result for COVID-19.

According to a company statement, the worker was at the Cloudbreak site from July 20 to  July 27, 2021.

“This person was asymptomatic while on site and is currently in isolation awaiting the outcome of further testing,” Fortescue stated.

“The health and safety of our team members remains our highest priority and we are working closely with the Department of Health to assist with contact tracing.

“In accordance with the directions of the Department of Health, all team members who were on site during that period are not required to isolate unless they are identified as a close contact through contact tracing. Fortescue has a comprehensive COVID-19 management plan and protocols, as well as access to rapid antigen testing on site.

“Fortescue believes that vaccination is the key to protecting our workforce and all team members are encouraged to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in line with current directions from the Commonwealth Government.”

The major miner achieved 49.3 million tonnes (Mt) of ore shipped for the June quarter, pushing financial year ore shipments past the 182Mt target for 182.2Mt.

Both figures were records for their respective periods, with the latter up 2 per cent on the previous financial year.

Fortescue chief executive officer Elizabeth Gaines last month acknowledged the results in the context of some tough conditions.

“This was an outstanding performance despite the impact of wet weather, as well as COVID-19 restrictions requiring many of our team members to remain on site for extended periods during WA’s lockdowns,” Gaines said.

“We greatly appreciate the ongoing cooperation of the entire Fortescue family as we continue to manage the impacts of COVID-19.”

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