Growers are being urged to implement additional security measures to deter the theft of granular fertiliser and mitigate potential terrorist threats.
Superintendent Steve Fosher, head of the National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO), points out that this time of year requires particular vigilance, given the large amounts of granular fertiliser being delivered to and stored on-farm.
“Regardless of how much fertiliser you store, it’s important to consider measures to prevent it from being stolen and misused by potential terrorists, as the threat level to the UK remains at ‘substantial – an attack is likely’,” he says.
Five point plan
NaCTSO together with partners including Red Tractor and FIAS have coordinated a ‘fertiliser security five point plan’, as detailed below:
- Wherever possible use a Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme (FIAS) approved supplier
- Wherever 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 a field for a long period of time
- Remember it is illegal to sell ammonium nitrate without the correct documentation
Prevention is key
Steve adds that the key objective is to prevent fertiliser being stolen in the first instance and while there’s no such thing as absolute security, there are simple measures that can significantly reduce the likelihood of theft.
An example being, storing fertiliser in an enclosed secure building or covering it with a tarpaulin in an open-sided barn. Further tips can be found here.
It’s recommended that farms adopt a balanced mix of integrated security measures incorporating a combination of both physical security and supporting procedures.
Steve continues: “It’s hoped that by following this advice we’ll not only prevent fertiliser being stolen – which causes a financial loss to farmers and growers – but ultimately restrict the availability of nitrate-based fertilisers for use by terrorist groups within the UK.
“We all have a role to play to help prevent terrorism. If you think someone is acting suspiciously around your farm, contact your local Police, the Anti-Terrorist hotline 0800 789 321 or online at ACT: Report suspicious activity | Protect UK . If you Suspect it, report it.”
In an emergency always dial 999.
