Synlait operations withstand earthquake shocks

Synlait operations withstand earthquake shocks

Synlait Milk, the dairy processing operations of the Synlait group, remain fully operational after Saturday’s large earthquake and subsequent after-shocks.

The plant, located at Dunsandel, is 28 kilometres from the epicenter of the earthquake which caused extensive damage in Christchurch.

Synlait General Manager Operations John Roberts says the ability of the plant to withstand such a large earthquake is testament to its integrity and sound construction.

“The plant has been inspected by a structural engineer this week and all moving equipment thoroughly tested and found to be in working order.”

The plant was forced to shutdown for 12 hours last Saturday when the electricity supply was cut, along with power to much of Canterbury.

Only one of Synlait’s milk suppliers has suffered serious damage and is expected to have a replacement milking shed in operation by early next week.

“Some of our suppliers did not milk their cows on Saturday but by Sunday we were back to 100 per cent supply even if the cows were being milked on other properties,” Mr Roberts says.

Synlait Managing Director John Penno says the earthquake and subsequent after-shocks have been a real challenge for suppliers and staff as well as testing the structure of the plant.

“The commitment of our staff and suppliers to business as usual has been magnificent even though the event continues to cause disruptions at home and in the wider community.”

ENDS