Gasgrid Finland Oy is a supply security critical enterprise and ensures the disturbance-free operation of the Finnish natural gas transmission pipeline system. We comply with and follow the policies and guidance of the Finnish authorities regarding the prevention and control of the coronavirus. We have updated our internal preparedness plan concerning a pandemic and will act accordingly where necessary. Preparations for coronavirus outbreak have taken place in phases and instructions have been tightened in response to the developments in the situation.
Guidelines to our personnel
We have provided Gasgrid personnel with information and guidelines on several occasions during the development of the coronavirus outbreak. The most important action is to take care of good hand hygiene by washing hands with liquid soap or by using a hand sanitizer. The company complies with the travel recommendations of the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs. In addition, we have introduced a remote working policy. We have switched to video- or remote meetings whenever possible. Personnel must stay away from work if ill, and we have introduced an extended model regarding the right to self-declare for sick leave. The latest notification to personnel was submitted on 12 March.
Safeguarding security of supply
To ensure security of supply, Gasgrid is taking particular action to safeguard the 24/7 operation of the Central Control Room. No meetings will take place in the Control Room and no visitors to the Control Room will be received. Access to the Control Room is permitted for compelling reasons only. The Control Room personnel work in two shifts and there are operators on stand-by to substitute in case of ill health. The substitute arrangements for the entire personnel are determined in the job descriptions.
Regarding the natural gas supply chain, the situation in Finland is better than previously now that gas can be injected into the Finnish network from two points, meaning Estonia and Russia. In addition, Gasgrid is prepared to inject reserve fuel into the gas pipeline network in case of any gas supply disruptions. The transmission pipeline equipment is extensively duplicated.
Regarding critical suppliers, maintenance preparedness has been ensured, and others are being assessed by contract responsible persons. As for control systems, Gasgrid has contractual partners who will be able to help respond to any incidents.
We updated our crisis communication guidelines concerning incidents in early 2020. Our risk assessment has also been updated.
For more information please contact:
Olli Sipilä, CEO, Gasgrid Finland Oy, phone +358 40 589 4686, olli.sipila@gasgrid.fi.
Gasgrid Finland Oy is a Finnish state-owned gas transmission system operator with system responsibility. Our task is to ensure safe, cost-efficient and reliable gas transmission for our customers and society. We actively develop our infrastructure, services and the gas market to promote a carbon-neutral energy system of the future. Read more: www.gasgrid.fi/en