PHA Issues Statement On Coronavirus Outbreak

The Public Health Agency has issued advice on the current outbreak of Coronavirus.

The infection, believed to have originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan, can be potentially deadly to patients with underlying health conditions.

It's understood the outbreak has affected a handful of people in Scotland.

A reported case at Belfast's Royal Victoria Hospital remains unconfirmed. The PHA said no cases have been diagnosed in Northern Ireland as yet.

A spokesperson said: "The risk to the UK population has been assessed as low. The risk to visitors to Wuhan is moderate, reflecting an increase in the number of cases being identified in China and evidence that the virus has limited spread from person to person.

"Individuals should seek medical attention if they develop respiratory symptoms within 14 days of visiting Wuhan, either in China or on their return to the UK. They should phone ahead before attending any health services and mention their recent travel to the city.

"This is an evolving situation and we will provide updates and further guidance as required."

Those planning to travel abroad are advised to check for advice online.

Snow Due To Arrive In Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is bracing itself for a period of snowfall next week.

Latest forecasts show that snow showers may hit some areas on Monday 27 and Tuesday 28.

The wintry conditions are expected to follow a day of heavy rain on Sunday.

More accurate weather predictions, as published throughout the weekend, will determine the extent of the snowfall.

Construction Site Inspections To Begin Across NI

A two-week programme of inspections is set to take place on construction sites across Northern Ireland in the hope of reducing onsite casualties.

HSENI is conducting the inspections, starting on Monday 27 January, with a specific target placed on all non-compliant plants, unsafe practices and inadequate segregation of pedestrians and vehicles on local building sites.

This is part of a drive to reduce deaths and injuries within Northern Ireland's construction industry.

HSENI unveiled what inspectors will focus their attention on:

• Adequate pedestrian and vehicle segregation

• Plant inspections, Maintenance schedules and Thorough Examinations

• Site specific Risk Assessments for operating plant.

• Training for operating different types of plant

• Footbrakes

• Handbrakes

• Lap Belts

• Falling Object Protection Structures

• Tyres

• All round visibility

• Lifting Accessories

• Rollover Protection Structures.

The NI body will also use this programme to support its 'Construction Plant Accidents Are Preventable' message to the industry.



(JG/CM)