BREMERTON — Older workers and those with higher risks of complications from the novel coronavirus at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard have been offered the opportunity to go home on paid leave.

Some 900 employees at Kitsap County's largest employer are, or will turn, 60 years old by the end of May. Shipyard leaders are working to make it possible for them to work from home. But barring that, they can use what's called administrative leave for weather and safety reasons.

"We are taking this seriously and are working to support our employees and their families, while still supporting our national security," a spokesperson said.

There are 31 shipyard workers awaiting test results for COVID-19 and nine who have received negative results. So far, there have been no positive tests for all of Naval Base Kitsap, the shipyard announced Wednesday morning.

One test within Navy Region Northwest — a sailor stationed aboard the USS Ralph Johnson destroyer based in Everett — has come back positive.

More:While others shut down, shipyard, Navy work continues, even as coronavirus spreads

Employees with health conditions shown by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to put them at risk for complications should they fall ill with the coronavirus are also being allowed to either go home to work or be on leave, as are those who care for such individuals.

The shipyard is asking its workforce to consult their doctors and "self-identify" for the leave by showing documentation of complicating conditions including heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, pregnancy, high blood pressure or compromised immune systems.

The shipyard's leadership will reassess the situation at the end of March and every two weeks thereafter.

The shipyard's six dry docks service the Navy's nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and submarine fleets, as well as recycle vessels. It employs more than 14,000 people. It has remained open throughout the coronavirus crisis because of its critical mission supporting national security.

More:New shipyard commander joins women making history for firsts in the military

Josh Farley covers the military for the Kitsap Sun. Email him with story ideas at josh.farley@kitsapsun.com.