The Avonmouth factory produces concrete segments for Balfour’s tunneling contract at Hinkley Point C.

The contractor stressed that only the manufacturing plant was affected and work continues as normal at the Hinkley nuclear site.

Balfour said: “We can confirm that 20 employees working at our manufacturing facility in Avonmouth, Bristol have tested positive for Covid-19 as of Monday 27 July.

“In response, we undertook a deep clean of the facility over the weekend and initiated the NHS’ Test and Trace procedure.

“Having engaged with Public Health England and Bristol City Council we have now taken the responsible decision to close the facility until further notice to reduce the potential further spread of Covid-19.

“The NHS’ Test and Trace procedure has so far shown no impact on the Hinkley Point C main construction site, which the Avonmouth facility serves as part of the wider supply chain.

“We continue to engage with all those affected and remain committed to the health, safety and well being of all those who work with and for us, as well as the general public.”

“During the Covid-19 pandemic, our sites and contracts have remained operational where we are able to appropriately implement Balfour Beatty’s Covid-19 Site Operating Procedures which are fully aligned to the latest UK Government guidelines.

“These include preventative health and safety measures such as enhanced hygiene and cleaning measures, daily briefings on Covid-19 practices including the controls around 2 metre working, temperature checks for all individuals on arrival, and changes to working practices and site arrangements, including within all shared facilities, to maintain social distancing on site.”