Seven workers at Conestoga Meat Packers have the coronavirus (update)
Posted Apr 23, 2020 08:36:00 PM.
Conestoga Meat Packers in Breslau has confirmed seven employees have tested positive for COVID-19.
The company learned of the positive cases from Region of Waterloo Public Health this week.
It says because of the size of its workforce and an increase in testing, more positive cases can be expected.
The plant says all those affected are self-isolating, and the company has initiated a pandemic response plan.
“The health and safety of our employees is the primary concern of the company and Conestoga has implemented numerous measures to enhance protection of employees since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Conestoga Meats in a statement.
Employees receive daily temperature and symptom screenings.
There's also increased sanitation in cafeterias, locker rooms and washrooms, as well as staggered shift and break times.
It is also working with the Ministry of Labour regarding complaints. So far, no Ministry orders have been issued.
Friday update:
The company has decided to halt production for one week.
Conestoga Meat Packers provided the following statement to 570 NEWS:
The health, safety and wellbeing of Conestoga Meats employees is our priority. Employees have expressed concerns regarding COVID-19 positive cases at the plant. Despite the fact that Public Health has indicated that our procedures are appropriate and that recent Ministry of Labour investigations related to complaints have resulted in no orders issued, the farmer-owners and leadership of the company have determined that we will implement further-enhanced health and safety measures and ensure that all existing procedures are fully operational. Therefore, Conestoga will not be processing hogs for a week. Limited staffing and operations will be maintained. Employees who are off due to the pause in operations will be compensated for the time off.
