LONDON, Ontario — Cargill is closing its London, Ontario, poultry processing plant for 14 days effective immediately as a precaution following an outbreak of COVID-19 affecting 82 workers.
The location employs approximately 900.
The past week saw a large jump in cases at the processing plant. The Middlesex-London Health Unit reported just nine cases at the processing plant last week.
“As we continue to prioritize the health and safety of Cargill employees, we have decided to temporarily idle our London protein facility,” Derek Hill, plant manager, told CBC News. “This was a difficult decision for our team who are operating an essential service; and are committed to delivering food for families across Canada and ensuring the resilience of our supply chain. But ultimately, our employees’ safety and well-being come first.”
The company adds that it has implemented safety protocols and continues to work with health officials to get workers at the facility vaccinated against COVID-19.
It’s noted that Cargill maintains such safety measures as temperature testing, enhanced cleaning and sanitizing, social distancing where applicable, and the use of face coverings, as part of the many safety steps used to help keep workers safe from the virus.
