The Bristol Port Company says it is “resolved and ready” for the coronavirus outbreak.
The port in Avonmouth handles millions of tonnes of “critical cargo”, including animal feed for almost all livestock in southern England, containers which bring in thousands of different commodities and the wood pulp that makes millions of rolls of toilet paper.
Plans to mitigate any disruption caused by the virus were drawn up several weeks ago, the port has said, and it is “highly confident” the measures will help maintain services.
David Brown, chief executive of The Bristol Port Company, said: “Keeping our global gateways open for trade is a national priority, and Bristol Port is running efficiently and effectively as always.
“We see it as our responsibility and duty in these unprecedented times to keep Bristol, the region and the nation moving.”
Mr Brown said the port had “weathered many storms” and was prepared to overcome the current Covid-19 threat.
(Image: Bristol Port)
He pointed out freight is mainly moved by machinery in an outdoor environment with little human-to-human contact.
“[The Port will] ensure the needs are met of all our customers, from shops, retailers, and public services, to manufacturers and farmers,” he said.
“First and foremost in our considerations is the safety of our staff and those in the dock estate and surrounding area.
“We are in daily contact with the UK Government and other stakeholders to keep ahead of the developing situation.”
The port’s police force has said it is working closely with Avon and Somerset Police in preparing for any emergency services response which might be needed.
Jeff Foreman, chief officer of Port of Bristol police, said: “Policing is all about balancing resources and responding to risk, and our officers are, as ever, planning ahead and working around the clock to protect the Port estate and community.
“Emergency services have a well-rehearsed approach in how we coordinate and join-up our response with Avon and Somerset Police, local and national government and agencies.
“We are in continuous contact to keep on top of this rapidly changing picture, to ensure we are ready and positive in our response, and critically to ensure trade continues seamlessly at the port.”
Kevin Elson, representative for the Unite union at the port, added that the workforce was “engaged in a combined effort”.
“We have seen our workforce pull even closer together. This team effort and resilience will maintain business as usual in our operations around the port,” he explained.
“Our workers recognise something of a sense of responsibility that comes with working at the port, which plays such an important part of the supply chain to keep the city, the region and the nation moving in these unprecedented times.”
