Adelaide Brighton acts as heavy industry virus-proofs operations

Manufacturing has so far continued to operate in the face of the spread of the Covid-19 coronavirus, with companies using social distancing and sanitation measures to keep their staff safe at work.

Companies have also re-engineered their supply chains to replace inputs from distant sources such as China.

But forward looking companies are also planning for the very worst – a cluster of coronavirus illness in their workplaces.

Cement producer Adelaide Brighton is one that has put contingencies in place so it can continue to operate in case of a COVID-19 that threatens production.

An example is the company’s new emergency control room at Cockburn Cement’s Munster site in Western Australia (pictured).

The alternative control room can be activated in the event of a virus incident in the main control room.

CEO Nick Miller said: “While we face uncertain times…we are carefully implementing measures across the Adelaide Brighton Group to protect both our employees and stakeholders.

“The safety, health and wellbeing of our employees, customers, suppliers and contractors is our highest priority.”

The company has been operating two internal coordinating groups to monitor the fast-moving pandemic and its effects on its business.

“These groups are meeting daily to make sure Adelaide Brighton takes appropriate steps to protect its emplyees…and to safeguard business continuity.”

The company has also joined the majority of large manufacturers and withdrawn its earnings guidance to investors for this financial year.

While the company’s sites remain fully operational and sales are in line with expectations, it can no longer be confident its targets will be achieved.

Adelaide Brighton completed a refinancing of the business and is well-placed,with $450 million in cash and undrawn bank facilities.

Picture: Adelaide Brighton

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