By Sue-Ann Wayow
WITH the rise in community spread of the Covid-19 virus, persons working in the energy industry face a heightened risk of contracting the virus.
The Energy Chamber in a media release on Thursday stated that energy sector companies continue to review policies based on the dynamics of the virus.
On Thursday, the Ministry of Health reported that 23 individuals from offshore platforms tested positive for the virus.
The chamber stated that since the start of the pandemic, the energy sector put in place stringent measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19 on any of its facilities. Health protocols remain in place for all crews before they take up duties and all operators continue to adhere to health guidelines with respect to social distancing, wearing of masks and sanitation, in addition to other mitigation measures, put in place on all facilities.
The chamber added that the health status of all employees and contractor staff was regularly monitored both onshore and offshore to ensure safe and continued operations, while maintaining the health of its workforce. Work from home policies have been maintained for most office-based staff in the sector.
The chamber stated, “With the recent rise of community spread, there is a heightened risk that the industry faces, along with the rest of the country. Under these circumstances there is always a risk that, despite all barriers in place, individuals with Covid-19 may unknowingly enter onto facilities. Considering this heightened risk, the energy sector companies continue to review their policies and procedures to ensure that they are modified, strengthened and appropriate for the risk that we currently face.”
“Companies are reviewing the best practices internationally and also share information locally to ensure the best risk mitigation measures are in place. The industry is always open to working with the Ministry of Health and other regulatory agencies to ensure that the right measures are applied,” the chamber continued.
The chamber stated that especially during the pandemic, the industry was working to maintain provision of electricity 24/7 and will continue to work in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health to ensure that barriers in place were properly maintained.
