Factory closes after Covid outbreak

A Bridge of Allan factory has temporarily closed and instructed all staff to undergo coronavirus testing after a Covid outbreak there.

The United Closures and Plastics (UCP) factory in Bridge of Allan has seen a number of confirmed cases and bosses took the decision to halt operations.

Writing to employees, the firm said: ‘Due to an increase in the number of positive cases over recent days, we have been working with the Forth Valley health board to review our measures to help mitigate a further spread.

‘The key bit of advice they have given is for all employees to undergo PCR testing. This applies to all departments, the only exception being those who have underwent a test recently and since they were last onsite. In order to support this and allow for a deep clean in all areas, we will close the site from 7am on Tuesday, July 20, and reopen at 6am on Thursday, July 22.

“Anyone who has a positive test should selfisolate and remain off for 10 days. HR will make contact with anyone who tests positive to run through any questions.’

A spokesperson for NHS Forth Valley confirmed the outbreak, saying: “We can confirm that our Test and Protect and Public Health teams are supporting the United Closures and Plastics (UCP) factory at Bridge of Allan, after a number of staff have tested positive for coronavirus.

“The decision to recommend testing was taken after a careful risk assessment and, as a precautionary measure, the factory will remain closed for two days for enhanced cleaning and to limit spread.”

Guala Closures, owners of the UCP site, had not responded to our request for comment at the time of print.

The site, located in Steuart Road, makes caps for whisky bottles and employs around 300 people.