Laing O’Rourke confirmed the figures to Scottish Construction Now adding that the self-isolation measures were taken in line with proper test and protect guidelines.

The contractor has around 1,000 people currently working on the project. Work in the zones where the individuals concerned were based has been paused for a deep clean.

A Laing O’Rourke spokesperson said: “The safety of our workforce is our priority. Since the start of the pandemic we have focused on adapting our sites, making numerous changes to make them covid secure, amending procedures that go beyond Scottish guidance for construction activities. The project has been inspected by national statutory bodies, Scottish Government and council representatives who have confirmed the effectiveness of the measures.

“Where an individual tests positive, we ensure they follow national guidance and self-isolate immediately. We also move expediently to implement track and protect procedures. The contacts of anyone who has tested positive are required to leave the project and isolate. Work in the zone in which the individuals who tested positive were working is then paused to enable the area to be deep cleaned before work resumes safely.”

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) said it has been informed of the situation.

An HSE spokesperson said:  “HSE is working with the Local Authority, NHS and Scottish Government in relation to any confirmed cases.

“We have also visited the site and have engaged with the contractor to ensure that effective controls are in place”