Following a severe storm, not only utilities but also vegetation management contractors stand by to provide assistance. From responding to hurricanes to removing a downed tree, Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC has helped its customers during challenging times.
In response to the ongoing health emergency, the COVID-19 pandemic, the company shared a detailed response plan with its clientele. Here are some highlights from the plan:
1. Review and monitor the situation. As the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention (CDC) releases updates, Asplundh is reviewing and updating its safety policies and procedures.
2. Develop an actionable plan. The company developed a plan for its field operations workforce and one for its corporate and administrative staff. The plan is also broken down to reflect the intensity of the pandemic and level of impact to the organization.
3. Communicate the plan and safety procedures. Asplundh has taken these actions to safeguard the wellbeing of its employees and minimize the impact on its company:
- Communication with employees that states that if they are sick, they should not come to work
- Postponement or cancellation of all non-mission critical meetings and gatherings if and where needed
- Instituting “social distancing” etiquette, including limiting physical contact and maintaining space of 3 to 6 ft between individuals when possible.
- Restriction of travel by company employees to allow for only mission-critical activities.
- Adhering to government restrictions on travel and movement within geographic areas.
4. Control and reduce the chances of spreading the infection. Asplundh is emphasizing good personal hygiene practices and encouraging employees to keep their work spaces, trucks and equipment safe by frequently disinfecting them.
For more information, visit the CDC Web site. Also, if you have strategies that you are using to keep your employees safe and working in the field during the pandemic, email Field Editor Amy Fischbach.
