How the Resource Industry is Dealing with COVID-19
The world continues to face the impact of COVID-19, and Canada is not excluded. As of the morning of March 31, 2020, Canada had 7,708 cases, with Saskatchewan claiming 176. These are difficult times, but with some planning, community building (from a distance), and the knowledge that we are all facing the same challenges, we will get through this difficult time together. For those who work in the resource industry, there is plenty to know about how we can collectively deal with COVID-19.
The first thing to acknowledge is that many resources, including potash, are essential. Jobs in the resource industry won’t be as heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic as other industries because the country needs these services to survive. It is therefore incredibly important for these companies to protect their workers and create the safest possible work environment for them.
Canada ranks as the top country for potash production, exporting approximately 12 million metric tons each year. While there is a lot of uncertainty surrounding both the national and international economies, it is important to keep producing and exporting potash. This essential service keeps many important supply chains moving, like the fertilizer we need to ensure crop growth.
One of the leaders in the potash industry, Nutrien, released a statement about COVID-19 and what it means for the industry. As they said, “While many of us will experience some frustration about not being able to find things on our grocery lists, this is a short-term problem.”
“As an agriculture industry, we need to look ahead to future food production to ensure this isn’t a long-term issue. Nutrien is at the beginning of the food supply chain, and our role as an essential service is more critical than ever.”
Measures are being taken by every company, regardless of whether they are reducing workers or changing working conditions, to align with the recommendations of the federal government.
At Bit Service our first and primary focus is the health and safety of our employees and their families. We have implemented significant measures to reduce the risk of COVID 19 transmission through increased sanitization schedules, strict employee physical distancing and alteration of schedules to reduce risks of congestion. Incoming and outgoing delivery personnel have been very cooperative with our emergency policy of barring outside people from our facility, as it also reduces their risk as well.
Overall, ensuring that within the company, you can reduce the number of people coming into contact with each other is a good start. It is vital to have employees work remotely when possible, alter work schedules as we are doing, and communicate regularly with your team. Even though some provinces have fewer cases than others, being prepared never hurts. Involve management in discussions and planning, and make sure to take care of employees wherever possible, from providing mental health resources to paying invoices to contractors promptly, are all things multiple companies are doing.
At Bit Service, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the essential service workers who are helping us in this time of need, including those in the potash industry.