Update on Two Confirmed Positive Cases of COVID-19

30 July 2020

Cathay Pacific Services Limited (CPSL) has been notified that two staff members who are close relatives had diagnosed with COVID-19 late in the evening on 30 July 2020. The company has notified the relevant authorities and staff via intranet immediately. It is our understanding that the staff members have dined with a family member not living together who was diagnosed with COVID-19 in early hours of the day. The staff members were responsible for export cargo documentary works and do not required physical contact with customers. They last reported to work at the 2/F office on 26 July and 28 July respectively. According to our understanding, this case is not linked to the previous cases reported and they are not in close contacts.   

 

As a precaution, all co-workers who had been in close contact with the index staff members have been placed off duty and will take throat saliva tests. CPCT has arranged thorough cleaning and disinfection of duty offices, changing rooms and public areas.  

 

The health and safety of all working parties is of paramount importance. We have stepped up its precautionary measures and has been closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation to make appropriate adjustments since January. In light of the latest developments, the following procedures and follow-up actions have taken place:  

 

  1. Cleaning of surfaces in staff canteen, changing rooms, elevators and other high-use areas is being conducted more frequently with 1:49 bleach. Hand sanitiser available at the main entrance, public area and canteen;   
     

  2. All personnel including visitors who enter CPCT will be required to wear a face mask and conducted temperature checks. We also limit number of people in elevators, tighten access control and seating arrangement at the CPCT canteen and implement targeted measures to achieve social distancing and prevent crowds;   
     

  3. Arrangements have been made for split-team operation and work from home where feasible;  
     

  4. All staff are required to report immediately whenever fever or respiratory symptoms develop or had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 so further measures such as isolation, cleaning and disinfection can be taken at the earliest possible time.  

 

We always remind all staff and terminal users to maintain good personal hygiene and advise them to seek medical advice immediately if they feel unwell. We are keeping in close contact with the relevant authorities and units in Hong Kong.   

 

The company detailed reviews every case and evaluates the risk to make necessary adjustment on our preventative measures. The response level for the Infectious Disease has been escalated to Level 3. We have fully observed the guidelines issued by the Centre for Health Protection and put in place additional deep cleaning and supplementary disinfection. The cases have understandably caused a lot of concerns and worrying. The company reiterated that the health and safety of all working parties is of paramount importance. We will continue to provide regular updates to dispel any misunderstandings or concerns.