As the number of coronavirus cases increases, it is inevitable that some farmers, family members and staff will contract the virus.
However, plans are in place within all co-ops to ensure that milk will be collected and the highest hygiene standards will be adhered to all along the food chain.
Glanbia has issued advice to its suppliers that detail how it will deal with a confirmed case of COVID-19 affecting a farm. Here is what it is planning:
Milk collection and deliveries
In the event that there is a confirmation of a Coronavirus (COVID-19) case affecting a farm, GIanbia Ireland (GI) drivers going to farms or GI sites will take additional preventative measures and any close contact must be minimised.
As part of these preventative measures, farmers are asked to make available for its drivers three key items: soap, paper towels and a bin for disposal.
Biosecurity
Dairygold procedure:
If a farmer who supplies or trades with Dairygold contracts or suspects they have contracted Covid-19, they must contact Dairygold, which will in turn inform the relevant haulier, who will notify their driver.
The farmer (or whoever is carrying out milking in their absence) must ensure they wear disposable gloves during milking and clean all surfaces that the driver will come into contact with during milk collection with detergent or sanitizing solution.
These include:
The farmer must provide a bin for the driver to dispose of gloves as he is leaving the farm.
Personnel on the farm are to have strictly no personal contact with the driver once he enters the yard.
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