Newport-based office equipment manufacurer Bisley has restarted work at its factory in Caswell Way on the Reevesland Industrial Estate.

The firm, like many businesses, has been affected due to Covid-19 and the government’s announcement for all non-essential businesses to close or to work from home over the last nine weeks.

As a manufacturer, the majority of Bisley staff could not work from home and it took the decision in March to close the factory, ensuring all colleagues felt safe and protected.

Bisley has been in constant communication with all staff throughout lockdown and, after seeking advice, it invited those who felt able to, to return to work.

The feedback from colleagues was very positive, and Bisley has spent the last few weeks phasing its staff back to work in both its wood and steel factories.

Bisley has created a safe system of work at its factory headquarters and other locations, including revised working practices and clear markings to ensure the necessary and appropriate social distancing guidelines are in place. PPE and cleaning materials are in good supply throughout the premises and Bisley therefore feels confident that production and other factory-based activities have resumed successfully and safely.

A spokesman for Bisley said: "Production is strong and working well, and customer service functions are supporting its customers, while working from home. Bisley looks forward to continuing to support its customers, as it starts to steadily move out of what has been a challenging period for us all."

The firm's London showroom remains closed and when appropriate, it will re-open on an appointment only basis, while having clear social distancing processes in place.