We’re doing our best to stay indoors, and grocery stores have been doing their best to keep us comfortable. Retailers like Target and Walmart have added senior hours to their schedules, so at-risk customers can get what they need without the crowds. Walmart is also making moves to protect its employees, putting new cleaning regulations in place and limiting contact as much as possible.
Walmart just announced it’ll be providing gloves and masks to all employees who ask for them. Not only does this help protect workers, but it protects you, too.
What’s Changing at Walmart
Walmart is offering masks and gloves to employees in stores, distribution centers and fulfillment centers. That’s roughly 1.5 million employees in the United States! The gloves and masks won’t protect workers from all germs, but it’s a safety measure to help minimize contact and make employees feel comfortable coming to work.
According to Walmart, the masks aren’t medical-grade like those reserved for first responders. Still, for people who handle customers face-to-face on a daily basis, they provide some form of protection. The masks and gloves will be sent to stores nationwide in 1-2 weeks.
Here’s a look at grocery stores that provide grocery delivery and pick-up.
They’re Taking Temperatures, Too
As an extra precaution, Walmart is taking the temperatures of all employees pre-shift. Workers with temperatures over 100 degrees will be sent home. To keep employees in mind, Walmart will pay those sent home for the day, plus provide two weeks of paid sick leave. If they test positive for coronavirus, workers can be paid for up to 26 weeks.
Walmart isn’t the only one doing right by their employees. Trader Joe’s is giving out bonuses to those who stay and work, and fast-food chains are closing dining rooms to cut back on customer contact. We’re grateful to Walmart and our grocery workers for keeping us comfy through some tough times!
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Laurie Dixon