AN UPDATE ON COVID-19: INFORMATION ABOUT WHEATSVILLE SOUTH LAMAR
On March 24, we learned that a staff member in our South Lamar store tested positive for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Upon receiving this news, we acted immediately to notify our team at the location. The staff member, who works in a non-customer-facing role, last worked on March 17. By the time the employee called in sick to their shift on March 18, noting symptoms of COVID-19, we had already implemented our deep clean of the entire department, which includes mandatory regular cleanings of workstations and high touch areas.
Following guidance from public health authorities, Wheatsville identified all other team members who had close contact with the affected person and they are currently in self-quarantine until free of symptoms for 14 days. Our co-op has a competitive paid time off, and we’re supporting these employees as they self-quarantine, as well as working with all team members on a case-by-case basis to ensure they have the support they need.
We are, and have been, following all recommended guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and city, county, and state public health departments. Across Wheatsville locations, we require a temperature check of all staff before the start of their shift. Any team members experiencing fever or symptoms of respiratory illness are being advised to stay home and contact our HR department with any questions.
Wheatsville prides itself on its cleanliness and food safety standards, and we are doing everything we can to best serve our customers, care for our staff, and be a responsible member of our community. We have implemented rigorous cleaning practices throughout our stores, including hourly cleanings of high-impact/high-touch areas. Click here to learn more about the steps we are taking to protect employees and customers.
While the affected employee worked in a department with no contact with shoppers, we encourage customers who have questions to contact us at info@wheatsville.com