Taqa confirms seven suspected cases on North Sea platform

OIL and gas operator Taqa has confirmed a further seven suspected cases of coronavirus on a North Sea platform.

The firm said seven individuals had reported to the on board medic on April 5 with mild symptoms and are in self-isolation on its North Cormorant platform.

Those affected will be brought onshore by helicopter today, Taqa added.

Workers known to have come into contact with the affected workers have also been told to self-isolate and will also be choppered off the North Cormorant.

A spokeswoman for Taqa said: “Taqa can confirm that it is responding to seven suspected cases of Covid-19 on its North Cormorant platform.

“The individuals reported to the medic on 5 April with mild symptoms and are now self-isolating.

“The onboard medic is providing care for them and plans have been made for them to be brought onshore by helicopter today, 6 April.

“Those who have come into close contact with the personnel presenting symptoms have been instructed to self-isolate and will also be brought onshore by helicopter.

“Our main priority is to ensure the safety and welfare of everyone on board and we have clear procedures in place for handling suspected cases of Covid-19.

“We are working with the relevant authorities and agencies to assess and respond to the situation in line with UK Government and Health Protection Scotland guidelines.

“Taqa has robust business continuity plans in place to ensure the safe and sustainable continuation of our operations.”