It’s been one year since COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic and much has changed. Throughout the past year we have endured the lockdown, coined new terms such as social distancing, become accustomed to wearing masks, and demonstrated our resilience overcoming new obstacles in the wake of the spread of Coronavirus. It’s been a tough year, but in our communities, in our workplaces, and in our families we have persevered. For some it continues to be a struggle as many are battling the virus, families are grieving the loss of loved ones, and countless continue to deal with unemployment and hunger.  

There is hope. Vaccine distribution is picking up momentum across the country and new cases of the virus are on the decline. Restaurants and other venues are beginning to increase capacity and open up across the country. We’re relieved to be able to hug our loved ones and gather our families together once again. 

Based on recommendations of the CDC, we will remain cautious at The Shippers Group. Following the CDC’s guidelines, we will continue to require masks in our facilities, social distancing, sanitizing workspaces, and all protocols in place to help keep our co-workers and families safe. 

 

 

Taking Action

This is the latest list of actions we are taking to ensure communication to all stakeholders:

• President Rob Doyle continues his bi-weekly video address to associates.
• Summary of new protocols:
  • Testing: A negative test is required to return to work if an individual self-quarantines or is part of a Track and Trace.
    • The CDC suggests the median time of 4-5 days from exposure for symptoms to onset (11/3/2020), therefore we encourage and remind individuals to not test until a minimum of 4 days off from work. This is still the associates' decision, and although this action is not required, it is highly recommended.
    • A return to work should take place no earlier than 7 working days from the last day worked with a negative test.
    • Results must be returned no later than 10 days after the last day worked.
  • Age: Those over the age of 60 are allowed to self-quarantine without testing on a case-by-case basis. Notify Diane for review.
  • Exposure: If someone has had direct contact with someone who has tested positive, they must self-quarantine and be tested (see testing section above).
  • Testing Centers: TSG will make it a priority to provide detailed information regarding testing locations near the office/facility.
  • Important reminders:
    
    • If you do not feel well, STAY HOME. Call your manager and let them know you are experiencing signs of COVID-19
    • Remember to SOCIAL DISTANCE yourself from other workers. Notify management if you feel this is not occurring at your site.
    • Wear your protective MASK, SCARF, or BANDANA always. Be sure to cover your mouth and nose. Masks are required at all TSG sites.
    • Wash your hands and sanitize several times a day, especially after touching hard surfaces.
    • Disinfect your work areas. If you need supplies to clean your equipment, desk, or any other surface, let management know immediately!
    • Get vaccinated!
  • Sites are maintaining the proper level of PPE to ensure replenishment of items given ongoing shortages and lead times for some PPE.
  • Managers are stressing that associates stay hydrated, which is a key to a healthy immune system. Associates are allowed water in a clear bottle on the warehouse floor to aid in maintaining proper hydration. 
  • Practice getting plenty of rest, exercise, and good nutrition.

It has been one year since COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic. There is hope.

We are #3PLStrong. We are essential. We are TSG. View COVID-19 Resources

Our collective actions to stay home, social distance, wear masks, wash hands and sanitize, combined with those who can get vaccinated, are having a positive impact. Remain vigilant. With vaccine distribution underway we are getting the spread of the virus under control. To learn more about where you can get vaccinated, please visit the CDC’s VaccineFinder. 

If you have any questions about our COVID-19 response efforts, please contact Diane Villafana, VP of Human Resources and Safety Compliance.