All activities at Jorong Barutama Greston proceed as usual amid the spread of COVID-19. Only some employees work from home to adhere to government advisories on maintaining distance.
"We had anticipated this outbreak before it became widespread," said Gde Widiada, the Head of Jorong Mine.
According to him, the reason for a potential drop in production is not COVID-19 but the weather. Therefore, the targets remain in line with agreements.
Banjarmasin has currently imposed large-scale social restrictions (PSBB). Meanwhile, Jorong is located 111 km southeast of the capital of South Kalimantan. "There's a slim chance that PSBB will be implemented here," Gde said. "If it does, we'll optimize our housing facilities and work in shifts."
So far, no employees have contracted COVID-19 at JBG. Should there be any infections, JBG has prepared 4 specialized isolation rooms and medical care services during the isolation. "If symptoms are severe, we'll arrange an ambulance and protocols as directed by the Ministry of Health," he explained. Similarly, those residing in houses should be ready to be picked up or can head directly to Boejasin Hospital in Pelaihari.
Gde added, as per the district task force's standard procedures, if any personnel show reactivity from the rapid test, it would be the responsibility of the Tanah Laut District COVID-19 Task Force.
To curb the spread of the virus, JBG mandates employees to wear masks at all times in the workplace and maintain physical distancing. "Physical distancing is practiced right from boarding the employee bus," Gde illustrated.
He further said, "Always wash hands before entering the office and after any activity. Do not gather closer than one meter. Be ethical when talking or coughing, never face someone without a mask."
According to Gde, this pandemic has made employees more attentive to cleanliness and the environment. "The almost extinct culture of queuing is resurfacing," he said. Even illegal logging and other disturbances in the mining area are no longer visible.
In such situations, the role of technology becomes crucial. "What's important is not to be technologically challenged, every day we are learning more about digital technology. This includes the need to use CCTV in mines to monitor work from a distance," he added.
He reiterated: "Always wash hands before entering the office and after any activity. Do not gather closer than one meter. Be ethical when talking or coughing, never face someone without a mask."
According to Gde, this pandemic has made employees more attentive to cleanliness and the environment. "The almost extinct culture of queuing is resurfacing," he said. Even illegal logging and other disturbances in the mining area are no longer visible.
In such situations, the role of technology becomes crucial. "What's important is not to be technologically challenged, every day we are learning more about digital technology. This includes the need to use CCTV in mines to monitor work from a distance," he added.
