COVID-19

Philippines mining to resume, on special terms: MGB

Mining regulators in the nickel-rich Philippines are allowing mining to resume in the country at full capacity, though a number of strict safety protocols will be in place, according to officials.

 Philippines operations can restart May 16. Photo: MGB

Philippines operations can restart May 16. Photo: MGB

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The country's Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) said the industry, including both mining operations and processing operations, will be able to restart on May 16 in the areas deemed low-risk, which is most of the country.

Under the outlines, operators will be permitted to profile personnel to determine who may work, and when possible, special work arrangements such as working from home may be ordered for those workers who can.

Additionally, MGB said, all sites will be required to provide personal protective supplies including medical equipment, thermal scanners, face masks, hand gloves and hand sanitizers. They will also have to transport individuals to and from mine and plant sites to protect workers against infection.

Employees will need to follow a "no face mask, no entry" policy and will be subjected to temperature monitoring. Physical distancing guidelines have been put into place, as have disinfection and sanitation regulations.

At shipment facilities, the MGB has ordered mineral cargo vessels to observe a 14-day quarantine that begins on their departure date at their respective last port of call. No crews will be able to disembark once they arrive.

A full listing of all regulations for Philippines operations can be viewed here.

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