The Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) has welcomed the promotion of the Fertiliser Security Five Point Plan as part of National Counter-Terrorism Awareness Week, which took place from November 24th-30th. The campaign was a national initiative run by Home Office, which is keen to see even greater adoption of the plan across the industry.

To highlight the importance of the recently revised plan a photo call was held at a farm in mid-Lincolnshire with Assistant Chief Constable Peter Davies.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Davies said: “I know that the continuing support of members of FIAS (Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme) is highly valued by the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) and by the Counter Terrorism network throughout the UK. We believe that it has made an important and sustainable contribution towards fertiliser security. As with all aspects of counter-terrorism, continued vigilance is critical. We are encouraging all farmers that use fertilisers and those in the industry to implement this revised five-point plan.”

Jo Gilbertson, AIC’s Sector Head for Fertilisers said: “Over the past twelve months there has been a widespread acknowledgement of the role that AIC and the FIAS scheme plays in ensuring the security of fertilisers. We will not been resting on our laurels, but will continue to make sure the industry meets the safety and security standards required while delivering the commercial needs of industry.”

The five point plan is:

• Wherever possible use a Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme (FIAS) approved supplier
• Where possible keep in a secure area such as a building or sheeted away from public view
• Carry out regular stock checks and report any loss to the Police immediately (call 101)
• Avoid leaving fertiliser in a field overnight – never leave fertiliser in the field for a long period of time
• Remember it is illegal to sell ammonium nitrate without the correct documentation