Avalanche risks threaten operations at Síldarvinnslan in Neskaupstaður

Avalanche risks at Síldarvinnslan’s operations in Neskaupstaður are a pressing concern, jeopardizing employee safety and potentially leading to significant losses during the busy fishing season. The company is eager to take measures to mitigate these risks.

The mayor of Fjarðabyggð has proposed the installation of snow depth gauges and possibly explosive towers to manage snow accumulation on nearby slopes. Ensuring safe access to the company’s facilities and protecting the Landsnet power station, located in the same area, is a priority. After an avalanche incident in March of the previous year that caused road closures, representatives from Síldarvinnslan highlighted the critical need for uninterrupted production during peak times, especially during herring season.

Operational capacity at the fish processing plant in Neskaupstaður is essential, and safe access routes must be secured to protect personnel. There are possibilities of utilizing alternative routes, such as by sea, but the company is also exploring solutions seen in other countries, including controlled detonations to clear slopes.

Furthermore, there is a recommendation for the Avalanches Fund to also cover businesses at high-risk areas, as these enterprises often remain unprotected despite contributing to the fund. Potential government changes could allow the Avalanches Fund to extend its protective measures to include businesses, which city officials deem necessary.

Given the substantial economic value tied up in Síldarvinnslan’s facilities and their operations, local authorities are advocating for urgent action to strengthen the defenses against avalanche hazards.