Growing global concerns over the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has prompted Ok Tedi Mining Limited to establish a management response plan covering surveillance and response measures to respond to the pandemic.
“Over the last two weeks OTML has been working on our surveillance and response plans. We are satisfied that our Emergency Response and Medical teams are prepared to manage the Coronavirus if it spreads to PNG,” Deputy CEO/GM External Relations, Musje Werror said.
“Our teams on site are on track to implement the current plans. Awareness communications on the Coronavirus to staff, community and stakeholders have also commenced but we hope that we never have to implement these plans,” he added.
Other measures being taken by OTML include diverting its Cairns to Tabubil charter flights on Sundays via Port Moresby as per the directive from the National Government and the screening of passengers at the Cairns International Airport prior to check in. Passengers are required to complete and sign a health assessment form and have their body temperature taken using a thermal scanner.
“We will step up these measures as required if the Coronavirus is confirmed in PNG. Increased measures will likely include screening all passengers arriving on site on domestic commercial and charter flights and at key entry points into OTML operational and township areas,” Werror said.