COVID-19 Control: DPR thumbs up Industry’s performance
The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) has said that it is pleased to acknowledge the superior performance of the “Nigerian Oil & Gas Industry in managing the COVID-19 pandemic in our areas of operations which, from our records, is above global industry average.”
This was contained in a notice the DPR addressed to All Oil & Gas Industry Operators as well as All Industry Service Providers entitled “RE: MANAGEMENT OF COVID-19 OUTBREAK – UPDATE 5”.
“This relative success is the result of our collective sacrifices in implementing enhanced measures of the recent Circulars issued by DPR in line with the Guidelines of World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC),” the notice added.
By the same token, the Department is continually monitoring key indices across the industry vis-à-vis national outlook and regional/global spread of the deadly virus.
“Accordingly, whilst recognizing our modest achievements, we cannot rest on our oars given that we belong in a peculiar industry which is also the live wire of national economy.
“Consequently, we wish to reiterate that the contents of our earlier circulars: (DPR/1160/A/Vol.II/48 dated 20th March 2020, DPR/1160/A/Vol.II/49 dated 23rd March 2020, DPR/1160/A/Vol.II/53 dated 22nd April 2020, DPR/1160/A/Vol.II/54 dated 30th April 2020) are still relevant.
“These include the requirements on offshore rotation cycle, for maintenance of transit centers and on COVID-19 testing prior to embarkation, amongst others. Other company-specific measures (not in conflict with the afore-mentioned DPR Guides) may be implemented subject to the Department’s consent,” according to the notice.
It also said that at this juncture, it is imperative to reiterate that the collaboration of both Industry Unions (PENGASSAN and NUPENG) is crucial in the continued implementation of the modified rotation schedule and other measures, especially in the face of resurgence of the Virus in many parts of the world.
DPR enjoins the unions to sustain the same cooperative spirit with their respective Management whilst each company ensures work-life balance is maintained, provision of conducive work-place environment and timely payment of all renumerations & allowances to employees.
“None of the above measures should be an excuse for staff redundancy as we all work together through this challenging period.
The Department assures you of its continuous support and the implementation of measures to reduce the impact of COVID-19 on your operations,” it said further.
