At its Ontario factory, Maple Leaf Foods has ceased operations.
Michael McCain, President and Chief Executive Officer of Maple Leaf Foods, Inc., said on April 8 that the company is pausing operations at its chicken plant in Brampton, Ontario. Three coronavirus (COVID-19) cases involving employees of the facility are being looked into by the firm.
“Keeping our people safe is our top priority, which is why we decided to close the facility while we conduct a thorough risk assessment,” Mr. McCain stated. “We are thoroughly cleaning the plant, including the communal rooms and offices, while we finish the inquiry. Our objective is to finish the deep cleaning and the investigation as soon as is practical. Until we are certain that it is safe to resume work, we won’t start operations again.
Additionally, Maple Leaf announced on April 7 that a single person in Hamilton, Ontario, tested positive.
Maple Leaf is committed to maintaining its cooperation with public health organizations and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency in order to guarantee a secure working environment for its workers at its facilities across the nation.
In order to continue delivering healthy food at this crucial time, Mr. McCain stated, “This is a very fluid situation, and our teams are working very closely within our network as well as with our supply chain and logistics partners.”
The following are a few actions the company has made as part of its reaction strategy to counter COVID-19:
mandating that workers do their work from home whenever feasible. In cases where it isn’t feasible, the organization is implementing supplementary measures, such as designing workspaces that prioritize social distancing.
Improving hygiene in restrooms, locker rooms, cafeterias, and break areas. In order to minimize the amount of individuals in communal spaces, break periods are staggered.
In order to promote social distancing, decrease density, and generate more break room space, some plant offices will be repurposed and trailers will be brought in.
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Avoiding face-to-face meetings until absolutely necessary and making the most of technology to help with meetings and other communication.
limiting visitors to Maple Leaf Foods’ locations and offices and avoiding in-person meetings with clients, vendors, manufacturers, and other business associates.
prohibiting travel for work.
Restrictions on returning to work should be placed in place for team members who either live with someone who has traveled abroad or have personally traveled.
ensuring that workers who must self-quarantine be paid according to the short-term disability plans offered by the company.
bringing in a medical expert adviser to help with reaction plan formulation and execution for the company.