Testing equipment on its way

Wednesday 23 September 2020

On-arrival testing facilities at Guernsey's ports are now fully constructed, and the remaining pieces of testing equipment needed to increase capacity ahead of Phase 5c are "expected shortly".

In a media briefing, CCA Chairman Gavin St Pier previously said that the necessary equipment was delayed by the manufacturer, and that the next phase of exit from lockdown wouldn't be possible until it had arrived.

However, it has now been confirmed that several pieces of that equipment have already arrived, while others are expected shortly.

There is still no set date for a move to Phase 5c, but this equipment will ensure that our on-island testing capability will be able to cope once the CCA decides it is safe to make the transition.

"The robotics equipment, which is part of the extraction process, has arrived and is currently being commissioned," explained the spokesperson. "The equipment which prepares the extracted samples in preparation for what is called 'amplification' is due to arrive early next week, and will also need commissioning."

Pictured: The testing booths at the airport, and an outdoor facility for testing vehicle passengers at Guernsey harbour, are now fully constructed.

The molecular amplification machine was found to have a fault and is being returned to the manufacturer, however, it is expected back in Guernsey next week.

The confirmation follows the States of Guernsey's decision to reinstate social distancing for inbound travellers, after a sudden rise in cases in the UK.

There are currently 3 active cases in Guernsey, all of which are from inbound travel from the UK. Director of Public Health Nicola Brink has urged travellers to comply with self-isolation requirements to prevent the community spread of the virus.

Click HERE to read more about the current travel restrictions in place in Guernsey.

Jersey has also responded to the rise in UK cases, as its Health Minister is drafting legislation which could make face masks compulsory in public spaces.

Pictured top: The new testing facility at Guernsey Harbour, ready for the island's move to Phase 5c.