The Livestock Auctioneers’ Association (LAA) has to date had no reports of any concerns relating to Coronavirus (COVID-19), and as such it is business as usual, following the necessary precautions and UK Government guidance.
We are maintaining regular contact with all of our member companies, ensuring adequate facilities for washing hands with soap and water are available, and guidance notices are provided for members of the public.
Unless recommendations or instructions from the UK Government change, we will continue to support our members to provide a safe environment for the trading of livestock.
The LAA continues to monitor the guidelines and recommendations being made by our Prime Minister, UK Government, the Chief Medical Officer and the Government's Chief Scientific Adviser.
Restrictions on public gatherings have been implemented in Scotland and the Republic of Ireland. However, it is “Business as Usual” in England and Wales.
We are a vital element in the food supply chain and must be responsible businesses.
The LAA recommends that all members:
- Provide suitable and plentiful hand washing facilities – These facilities should be refreshed and kept clean at all times.
- Ensure that the market and all public areas are suitably cleansed after every gathering
- Request that anyone feeling unwell, or showing symptoms of the virus do not attend the market
- Display notices restricting the attendance at the market to clients conducting business – onlookers and the public should be asked not to attend.
- Display notices to highlight how to reduce the likelihood of contracting the virus
Do
- wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
- always wash your hands when you get home or into work
- use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
- cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
- put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
- try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell
Don't
- do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
The LAA will keep members updated should the guidance change.