A SECOND coronavirus case has been confirmed at a factory amid concerns from staff that there is going to be a second spike.

Cummins, in Darlington, says it is carrying out deep cleaning on a daily basis to ensure the health and safety of staff working there and is following Government guidelines.

On Thursday, a second worker at the factory in Yarm Road, which makes engines, was confirmed to have Covid-19.

The employee was last on site on Monday.

Another employee contacted the Northern Echo to voice concerns that workers were being used as "guinea pigs" and could be spreading the virus to vulnerable family members.

On Friday, a spokesman for Cummins said: "Cummins understand everyone’s concerns during this challenging time, and are making every effort possible to protect the health and safety of our employees and all stakeholders involved.

"The leadership team learned about a new case of Covid-19 for one of our employees yesterday evening, 14th May 2020. On investigation, this individual’s last day on site was 11th May, 2020.

"We have identified all staff who were working in the same area as the affected employee. We have confirmed that no one on site has come in close contact, based on six feet/two metres separation and for 10 or more minutes (as per the WHO definition).

"After seeking guidance from our medical director, employees may continue working without additional precautions.

"We are deep cleaning the site on a daily basis to ensure the safety of our employees, as well as maintaining social distancing and best practices on site entry.

"This includes temperature checks on arrival and ensuring every person wears a mask.

"Regular communications are being made with all employees to ensure they follow the government guidelines on Covid-19."

The factory closed for several days in March for deep cleaning after an employee became ill with coronavirus symptoms.

This week, the Government has produced new guidance for companies to help them return to work safely and is encouraging manufacturing companies to operate.