Sunderland factory workers isolating as employee dies after positive Covid test

Argus Powerbend, based in Pennywell, have confirmed a member of staff has sadly passed away following a positive Covid-19 test.

Further 17 staff members are currently isolating, with 11 employees testing positive for the coronavirus. The business, which manufactures manipulated tubes for Alfagomma hydraulic division, has a workforce of 126 people in total.

Argus Powerbend Sunderland said safety measures were in place on site in accordance with Government guidelines. They said:

"Argus Powerbend can confirm that sadly an employee has passed away following a positive Covid-19 test.

“The Company’s thoughts are with their family and friends at this difficult time.

“We have currently 11 staff who are absent due to a positive Covid-19 test and a further 6 who are absent due to isolation as a contact notified through NHS Test & Trace, out of a total workforce of 126.

“Argus Powerbend has worked very hard in ensuring the health and safety of its employees and has fully implemented all Covid guidance issued by the Government and HSE.”

The latest figures from the Government show Sunderland still has the highest Covid case rate out of the seven North East local authorities – ahead of Northumberland, Newcastle, Gateshead, Durham, South Tyneside and North Tyneside.

Sunderland City Council’s public health director Gerry Taylor has said there is “no particular reason why” the city’s rates aren’t decreasing and urged residents to continue sticking to the rules.