David Christian, the leader of Douglas Council, has issued advice for residents as the authority prepares for a coronavirus outbreak in the island.

Mr Christian said that during the past week, a number of steps had been taken in relation to coronavirus:

’Updates will be issued to staff as and when new advice is available or if the situation changes,’ he said.

’Staff have been made aware of who to contact if they have a cough, fever or shortness of breath or if they have been to any of the listed countries recently.

’Staff have been reminded of the need to exercise proper hygiene routines and to wash their hands frequently and guidance has been provided on washing hands and on how to prevent the spread of the disease. Hand gels and wipes have been issued and continue to be sourced.’

All staff will have personal protection equipment available to them suitable to their roles. Additional staff are also being trained in the operation of the crematorium.

Mr Christian added: ’If infection reaches the island, social distancing may be implemented and this will include staff working from home. Policies will be reviewed and staff training requirements identified and appropriate training provided to ensure staff are familiar with operational procedures relating to various equipment/vehicles.

’A business continuity plan is being developed and implemented taking into account relevant legal and regulatory obligations and to ensure critical services can be maintained

’Conflicting essential services will be effectively prioritised and managed and as a duty of care and to ensure compliance with health and safety duties the council will manage the impact on employees.’

Other measures would include: visitors to public buildings restricted; financial arrangements will be managed; wider operational risk will be managed; face to face meetings suspended and Skype/ Facetime implemented.

Mr Christian said that the council ’will continue to follow the advice issued by the government as it would not be appropriate to act independently.’