JSE- and NYSE-listed Gold Fields has adopted a range of risk mitigation strategies amid the escalating Covid-19, commonly known as the coronavirus, pandemic in all of its operating countries.
The miner on Wednesday said that while its mines have continued to operate as normal to date, the company was guided by the principle of prioritising the safety and wellbeing of its people, and “would not hesitate to act should their health be put at risk”.The mitigation strategies have been implemented at both the miner’s mining operations and offices to avoid potential infections and to ensure that any potential disruptions are limited.
Some of the measures include a strict adherence to country-specific regulations, government decrees and protocols, as and when issued; comprehensive hygiene awareness campaigns at all offices and mines; the imposition of indefinite business travel bans for all company employees and self-quarantine for employees returning from holiday.
Social distancing of employees, where practical, is encouraged and quarantine facilities have been set up at the company’s mines.
Gold Fields on Wednesday confirmed that it would review the situation “at regular intervals” to decide on further actions, if required.
The miner is also currently assessing stocks of critical input materials for its mines and will be adding to its supplies, if possible.
Gold Fields has operations in South Africa, West Africa, Australia and South America.