Chevron Nigeria Limited says none of its staff has contracted the coronavirus dispelling rumours of a member of staff being infected.
In a statement signed by Esimaje Brikinn, general manager for policy, government and public affairs, the company said it has taken precautions to prevent the spread of the virus among staff.
It listed one of the precautions to be a “compulsory two-week supervised quarantine for all personnel returning to work at its Escravos operations” during this period of the pandemic.
Esimaje said all personnel would have to provide a comprehensive travel history before the supervised quarantine.
On speculations that some of its staff suspected of having the coronavirus were quarantined in a hotel in Warri, Delta state, Esimaje said Chevron entered into arrangements with some hotels and other facilities in Warri and Lagos where their staff on rotational duties will be accommodated, and their health status monitored to ensure that they do not have the COVID-19 virus before returning to work at its Escravos operations.
“The first group of personnel scheduled for quarantine were moved to the designated facilities on Friday, April 10, 2020, and other groups will follow based on the crew change schedule and the personnel will be required to strictly maintain social distancing protocols, personal hygiene, and use of appropriate personal protective equipment during the supervised quarantine period.
“We are also working with the hotels and other facilities where the personnel will be placed, to ensure that the hotels and facilities maintain high levels of sanitation and follow strict adherence to all COVID 19 protocols.”
The company said it would continue to take precautions in line with guidance from local and international health authorities.
Chevron Nigeria Limited is the operator of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation/CNL Joint Venture (NNPC/CNL JV).
After COVID-19 cases were confirmed in the country, the federal government had said oil companies could continue operations. (The Cable)
