A source tells OFM News management forced employees to continue working without following all the necessary measures to stem the spread of the virus.

This source claims the supermarket was operating as normal despite the confirmation of a positive Covid-19 case.

However, in a detailed response to OFM News, Pick n Pay says the Hypermarket is temporarily closed and a staff member who tested positive has not reported for work since Tuesday.

The response further indicates that "in accordance with the Health Department, (the Hypermarket) will temporarily close the store so that an external specialist cleaning team can deep clean and sanitise the entire store.”

Within hours after the response, pictures of workers standing outside the store made rounds on Facebook, with others claiming that workers downed tools in protest against management.

But the supermarket chain also claims to have informed the Department of Health and that is liaising closely with health authorities to reopen the store soon.

"The health and safety of our customers and staff is a top priority. We are cleaning our stores even more rigorously, including sanitising all till points after each transaction and sanitising our trolleys frequently," Pick n Pay further added.

The department of Health in the province is yet to comment on OFM News’ inquiry.

OFM News