Fires in Gironde: UNICEM calls for a case-by-case resumption of activities in the materials sector

The fires ravaging the Gironde region have led the prefecture to strengthen restrictions aimed at preventing further outbreaks. In exposed areas of predominantly forested municipalities, the use of internal combustion and electric motors, as well as other ignition sources, has been prohibited.

While recognizing the need for these exceptional measures, the National Union of Quarrying and Construction Materials Industries (UNICEM) requests that their application be adapted to the actual conditions of each site.

Quarries mobilized to support rescue operations

Since the beginning of the crisis, several players in the construction materials sector have mobilized alongside emergency services, authorities, and local communities. These include quarry operators, ready-mix concrete producers, companies that recycle materials from demolition, and concrete pumping companies.

According to UNICEM, some sites, particularly gravel pits, host logistics bases used by emergency services. Companies also provide equipment, personnel, and water reserves accessible to vehicles, tankers, and helicopters involved in fighting the fires.

For the federation, this mobilization illustrates the operational role that the sector's sites can play in emergency situations thanks to their location in the territory.

UNICEM contests the indiscriminate application of restrictions

UNICEM acknowledges that protecting people and preventing new fires must remain priorities. However, it regrets that the restrictions are leading to the interruption of operations at sites that are not directly exposed to fires and that, in its view, have enhanced prevention procedures and safety measures in place.

The federation believes that the continuation of these work stoppages weakens the companies involved, their employees, and the economic activities they supply. The slowdown in the production and delivery of materials could particularly disrupt numerous construction and public works projects in the Gironde region.

“We fully share the safety imperative that guides the prefecture’s actions. However, this requirement must be accompanied by a case-by-case analysis. These bans are bringing a large majority of construction sites to a standstill and will have serious repercussions on the local economy. When companies can demonstrate that they can operate without exposing their employees or increasing the risk of fire, they must be able to resume their activities quickly. This request is all the more legitimate given that several quarry operators are currently contributing to the emergency response,” stated Laurent Richaud, president of UNICEM Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Authorizations tailored to the situation of each site

UNICEM is asking the prefecture to review the system in consultation with representatives of the companies. It proposes issuing authorizations based on the actual exposure of each establishment, its operating conditions, and the prevention measures implemented.

The federation believes that companies able to guarantee the safety of their employees and avoid increasing the risk of fire should be able to gradually resume their operations. It also states its readiness to continue supporting rescue operations and assisting public authorities in the recovery of economic activity in the Gironde region.

Image illustrating the article via Depositphotos.com.