Livestock auction marts remain open for business

The Livestock Auctioneers’ Association (LAA) has issued new guidance to minimise risks to farmers, as it confirms auction marts remain open for business following the latest Covid-19 advice.

Farmers are being asked to only stay at auction marts for as long as it takes to conduct business. LAA advises that mart canteens remain closed and suitable and plentiful hand washing facilities be made available.

Restricted attendance of customers is also recommended, with only those directly conducting business allowed to enter the mart. The LAA is also advising a review of non-essential food chain supply sales, such as fur and feather or shrub and plant sales.

Other guidance includes requesting any person over 70 not to attend sales, as well as children, pregnant women and those who are ill, showing symptoms of the virus or have underlying health issues.

Markets and all public areas should be suitably cleansed after every gathering and notices should be displayed to highlight how to reduce the likelihood of contracting the virus.

The situation is being monitored on an hourly basis and the LAA says it continues to work closely with the government.

LAA executive secretary Chris Dodds says: “It is important that our auction marts can support and minimise any disruption to the red-meat trade during the coronavirus outbreak. At the same time, all necessary steps are being taken to protect the health and safety of staff and customers across our auction marts.”

Read the LAA’s latest guidance and updates here: https://www.laa.co.uk/news/