[ad_1]
Walgreens says it is providing face covers to its employees at stores and distribution centers, the latest retailer to provide gear to better protect workers against the spread of COVID-19.
The pharmacy chain is also installing plexiglass shields to separate employees from customers as they pay for purchases. And it is checking employees for fever at its distribution centers and other facilities.
“Our pharmacists and team members are playing a critical role in supporting Walgreens customers and patients at an unprecedented time of need in our country,” Walgreens President, Richard Ashworth said in a statement. “We’re committed to doing everything we can to ensure the health and safety of our customers and employees.”
Several retailers have implemented safeguards to better protect the health of workers as tens of millions of Americans are told to stay home to slow the pandemic which has led to the deaths of more than 6,000 people in the U.S. and over 1 million cases worldwide.
Some of the changes have come in the wake of workers walking off the job to protest what they say are hazardous working conditions. Instacart said this week that it will provide face masks, thermometers and hand sanitizer to its full-service shoppers in the following a job action by some of its employees.
I’ve lost my job. Now what?: Laid off or furloughed because of COVID-19? We answer your questions about unemployment benefits
Walmart to limit shoppers:Walmart to limit the number of shoppers, as part of coronavirus response
And Amazon, the target of multiple protests and criticism by workers and lawmakers, has said it will check the temperature of all its employees, and offer masks to protect them at work.
Walmart and Sam’s Club also plan to take the temperature of all of their workers and to provide gloves and masks to those who ask. And Target will give out protective gear to employees in its nearly 1,900 stores.
Walgreens, which has altered hours to allow more time for deep cleaning of its locations and installed markings to help people maintain a safe distance, has also expanded on-demand delivery and the number of items customers can pick up at drive-through pharmacies.
Follow Charisse Jones on Twitter @charissejones
[ad_2]
Source link
