Metro Mining to recommence mining at Bauxite Hills in mid-April

Metro Mining Ltd (ASX:MMI) has announced it will recommence mining at the Bauxite Hills Mine in early April, as planned, with the first vessel to commence loading two weeks later. Mining operations are not undertaken at the Bauxite Hills Mine during the December – March wet season shut-down period, and although absolute dates are subject to weather conditions, long-term forecasts indicate that the restart should be smooth. Metro has confirmed the shipping schedule for the 2020 first quarter of operations is now finalised, and all production planned until the end of June is spoken for and anticipates producing and shipping about1 million tonnes of bauxite during this period. “Closely monitoring events” Metro managing director and chief executive officer Simon Finnis said that while it may seem like business as usual the company is not discounting the possibility that operations may be affected by COVID-19. He said: “Like all other organisation in Australia we are facing circumstances that are changing on a daily basis. “It is certainly a challenging time and we are doing everything possible to address issues as they arise. “Metro is closely monitoring events that may affect staff, contractors, local communities, shipping and our customers’ operations in China. “Importantly the Metro Board, who are also restricting face-to-face meetings, are constantly monitoring the effect COVID-19 may have on the company’s operations as a whole. “Metro will continue to keep the market informed under its on-going disclosure obligations.” Risk assessment completed Metro has completed a detailed risk assessment primarily focused on the health and wellbeing of our personnel and our community. The assessment was also aimed at ameliorating business interruptions and any impact COVID-19 may have on production. Procedures around personal protective equipment and access to and travel around the Bauxite Hills Mine site have been modified in response to the review and will be strictly policed. Health and safety of personnel Metro is also focused on the health of indigenous employees and the threat COVID-19 poses to their communities. The travel and work procedures take these issues into account, and the company is constantly monitoring any changes to travel and other restrictions to these communities so it can adapt accordingly. Additionally, work-from-home plans are in place, face-to-face meetings are discouraged, and all staff are being made aware of personal hygiene practices. COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving situation and procedures are being constantly monitored and updated in accordance with Government initiatives and directives.