Manitoba Hydro say that it will be scaling back construction work on Keeyask Project site in Northern Manitoba to protect the safety of workers and nearby residents over COVID-19.

Upon completion Keeyask will be a 695-megawatt hydroelectric generating station.

The reduction in workers at the site is expected to last for four to eight weeks.

“Approximately 600 supervisory, construction, and support staff have volunteered to remain at the site, and will focus on achieving the in-service date for the hydroelectric station’s first two generating units,” said a statement from Manitoba Hydro.

Crews that remain on site will continue to follow the Keeyask Pandemic Plan which includes:

• The requirement that anyone on-site with symptoms of an illness get checked out by the Nurse Practitioner. The Nurse Practitioner will assess the individual following Manitoba Health issued guidelines and if they are recommended for further assessment off-site, the individual will be immediately isolated in special rooms set aside for that purpose, and transferred off-site as soon as it can be arranged following Manitoba Health protocols.
• Increased cleaning protocols; reminders around camp, offices, and the work trailers detailing proper recommended personal hygiene practices; implementing social distancing by suspending gym classes and intramural activities, closing the on-sitetheatre, and providing only take-out meals from the Dining Hall.

© News4.ca 2020