Measures

The following describes some of the measures implemented when, due to disruptions, the economy is no longer able to supply the country with essential goods and services. In such cases, the state intervenes to provide support.

Supplementary compulsory stockpiling of plastic granules

In the event of a shortage of polyethylene granules for manufacturing plastic packaging for food and medicines, supply gaps are to be mitigated by releasing compulsory stocks. This measure is easily implemented, is quick to take effect and has a minimal impact on the market.

The release of compulsory stocks is governed by the compulsory stocks agreement between the Federal Office for National Economic Supply (FONES) and the compulsory stock holders, in accordance with Article 10 of the National Economic Supply Act (NESA; SR 531). Compulsory stocks may not be altered in quantity or deteriorated in quality without the consent of FONES.

Safety stock of ethanol

A reserve of 6,000 tonnes of pharmaceutical-grade ethanol is held by the private sector to ensure the country has sufficient supplies during a severe shortage. If demand rises rapidly, for example in the event of a pandemic, the stockpile will be used primarily to meet the needs of the healthcare sector, for example to produce disinfectants, and to supply other industries, in particular the pharmaceutical industry. Stockpiling is contractually regulated through a safeguard agreement based on Article 5 paragraph 4 NESA and Article 10 paragraph 2 of the implementing ordinance (NESO; SR 531.11).

Operational capability of emergency vehicles during power outages

The following is an example of the Industry Division's efforts to raise awareness among the cantons about emergency situations:

In 2018, the NES surveyed all cantons to determine whether their emergency and rescue vehicles could be refuelled during a power outage. The responses varied: only 12 cantons stated that the vehicles of their official emergency and rescue services could in fact be refuelled in the case of a power failure.

To raise awareness of this issue, the NES drew up a set of guidelines for cantonal fuel supply during power outages. Thanks to this campaign, each canton now has at least one petrol station that can operate on emergency power. Across Switzerland, over 100 petrol stations are now available for emergency use, and half of the cantons plan to equip additional petrol stations with emergency generators.