Murray Wood: Who's hot... and who's not
Every Friday, Murray Wood takes a look at the week's news and decides who's hot... and who's not. This week's list inclu...
BHP is adjusting its operations at its offices and the Jansen Potash site to reduce the risk of COVID-19.
The company implemented split shifts at the Jansen project site, about 140 kilometres east of Saskatoon. Other measures include changes to transportation, meetings and camp life.
Because of the changes, the company said it will be reducing the normal amount of contractors and out-of-province workers it typically uses.
To ensure those First Nations, Metis and local businesses can continue paying bills during the uncertainty of the virus, BHP has implemented an accelerated payment program.
“This is a very difficult time for the local business community and we must look out for each other to manage through this together,” BHP vice-president of operations Giles Hellyer said.
In a media release, the company said it would deliver approximately $3 million into the hands of small business partners over six months and immediate payment of outstanding invoices.
Due to provincial and federal measures, fewer people are working at the site at the same time. It means reducing activity to focus on one shaft at a time instead of both the production and service shafts, the release said.
“By continuing with some reduced activity on site, we can continue to provide some employment and support for the local economy,” Hellyer said in the release. “However, this is a rapidly evolving situation and we will continue to be aligned with provincial and federal responses as they evolve.”
The company will contact eligible businesses and plans to roll out the payments next week.
