The Newcastle Municipality has confirmed that a staff member from the Electrical Department has tested positive for COVID-19.
According to a statement released by Mlungisi Khumalo of Newcastle Municipality’s Communications Department, the employee is an artisan responsible for distribution, maintenance and repairs.
The employee is currently in isolation. Furthermore, in line with the COVID-19 Department of Health protocols, the electricity unit has been closed until necessary disinfection and decontamination measures are conducted.
Six employees who were in contact with the staff member will undergo testing.
The statement confirms the electrical department will continue to take calls from the public. However, some employees will be working from home. Electrical technicians who have not been affected or have not been in contact with the infected employee; will continue to serve the public while working remotely.
The IT unit has also been temporarily closed. This is after a service provider confirmed to have tested positive for Covid-19. The said service provider had been working at the IT department for a few days last week, the Communications Department explains.
Staff from the IT department have been sent home and asked to self-isolate, while the office undergoes disinfection. None of the staff has allegedly presented symptoms of the virus.
With two departments affected, the main municipal building will remain open to serve the public. During this time, the municipality will adhere to the precautionary safety measures, by screening employees and observing social distancing.
The municipality urges residents not to panic, as the municipality is working closely with the Department of Health. It also states service delivery will continue despite the recent developments.
