Rio Tinto is ensuring supply chain continuity by establishing business resilience teams across all of its global regions.
Continuity plans were developed after each region was assessed and are designed as contingencies for a host of scenarios. The company’s Australian operations in Perth, Brisbane and Bagotville were given priority because most of its employees in those cities cannot work from home. Certain protocols—like social distancing, travel restrictions, enhanced hygiene, and employee support—have been implemented as a result.
The company’s economic contribution last year totaled $45bn, including salaries, government fees, payments to supplies, non-governmental royalties, reinvestments, dividends, and finance items.
JS Jacques, Rio Tinto’s chief executive officer, said the company is consulting international governments as it implements safeguarding protocols to curb COVID-19’s spread while maintaining its operations. The company’s Shanghai team is returning to its office as China recovers from the pandemic.
Rio Tinto entities have also begun manufacturing essential goods, like hand sanitized and other protective goods to hospitals, and funding local community response initiatives. The company estimates these contributions will total $60mn in 2020.