Agenda and minutes

Apologies were received from Rob Sargent (SecAnim Representative).

The notes of the meeting held on 11 October 2017 were agreed as a correct record.

It was discussed that the production volumes remained stable and in line with 2018 forecasts, however there had been a large increase in fallen stock over the last three weeks. It was believed that it was a consequence of the recent cold weather and production levels were anticipated to return to normal as soon as the weather improves. Operational reliability continued to be good with no significant plant breakdowns.

The current/recent activities included:-

·         Storm damage to the roof in the early part of the year had been fully repaired.  At the time of the repair, additional sheets that were in poor condition were replaced.

·         Installation of effluent cooling system, which would be operational by end of April 2018;

·         Olfactometry assessments were scheduled for April 2018;

·         The introduction and development of the new planned maintenance software.

Future works would include:-

·         Warehouse refurbishment;

·         Continued removal of ‘redundant equipment’, improving site aesthetics.

The report attached to the agenda detailed complaints made since the last meeting and the results of any investigations.

A complaints summary was circulated (attached) which details comparisons for each quarter back to 2002. This showed that annual complaint figures remained low. Three complaints had been received in the period since the last meeting, all from different individuals and while the factory was running. No complaints had been received in the last few weeks despite the factory processing a large increase in fallen stock.

In response to questions, it was explained that:-

·         The low number of complaints in the last few years could be a result of increased process reliability, good management, and close attention to odour matters by all staff and the addition of dampers on the chemical scrubbers. This had reduced the likelihood of odour during shut down periods and did appear to have reduced the number of complaints received while the factory was not operational.

·         The hot weather caused degradation of the raw material which came into the factory making it harder to process. Wind direction and speed also affected the location of complaints.

There was a discussion over whether odour from the raw material or from the process itself was more of a problem.  It was explained that the raw material odour was relatively easier to treat than odour from the process itself because of the nature of the compounds involved.

The Group noted the low number of complaints in the past few years and wanted to record their appreciation of the hard work of the site management and staff.

There was no other business.

The date of the next meeting was noted.