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Western Areas not impacted by coronavirus despite FIFO suspension

Western Areas has ceased its dependence on interstate fly in, fly out (FIFO) workers at the Forrestania nickel operation in Western Australia.

The company said it’s is not expecting significant impacts from the increased travel restrictions in Western Australia as FIFO represents a “very small number” of its total workforce.

Western Areas has also implemented policies and procedures to mitigate the risk of a coronavirus outbreak at its sites.

The company has maintained its 2020 financial year production guidance until further notice.

Western Areas managing director Dan Lougher said the company would play its part in limiting the potential spread of the virus.

“We remain vigilant in this dynamic environment and our proactive engagement with customers, suppliers and contractors has enabled us to maintain our operations in tandem with implementing measures to protect the wellbeing of our workforce,” he said.

“While our operations have not been impacted as yet, we are under no illusion that this is a rapidly changing situation and as such there is potential for operations to be impacted in the future.

“Nevertheless, with our strong balance sheet, we are confident we are well positioned to withstand any adverse fall out that may occur.”

Western Areas’ cash position stood at around $181.4 million as of last month.

The company also carried no debt, stating that it was well placed to emerge from the coronavirus pandemic in a strong position.

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