Crews at Davey Plastics in Regina have been working around the clock to help protect front-line workers.
Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, the local plastic company has been hit by a wave of orders for plastic protective shields, also known as sneeze guards.
“It’s been crazy. We’re working 12 to 14 hours a day with two crews machining parts and bending around the clock,” said Layne Maier, who co-owns Davey Plastics with his father Lonnie.
“It’s all about speed. We’re trying to get everyone protected as quickly as possible.”
While many organizations have transitioned to have their employees working from home, some essential services still rely on having staff on hand.
That’s where Davey Plastics comes in. The plastic company is providing protective shields for all kinds of businesses from medical clinics to pharmacies to gas stations and grocery stores.
Maier said the guards serve as a physical barrier for those working in essential services.
“It gives them a line of defence. And you know what, I can see it in their eyes when they show up. It’s a relief for them because they’re just standing there defenceless.”
Most recently, the company was approached by a health-care worker asking the company to create a shield to accommodate patient intubations.
“I have lots of friends, close people in the medical industry and I’m worried about them. I wouldn’t want to get up and do their job,” Maier said. “Truthfully doctors and nurses are the real heroes and we just want to help.”
Maier says this isn’t how the company would have liked to see its business boom, but he is grateful employees can still take home a paycheck.
“To be able to still bring in a paycheck and help out, it’s been a bonus all around,” Maier said. “We’re been dealing with all these materials for years and for it to finally pay off and give something back, it feels good.”
Questions about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:
Health officials caution against all international travel. Returning travellers are legally obligated to self-isolate for 14 days, beginning March 26, in case they develop symptoms and to prevent spreading the virus to others. Some provinces and territories have also implemented additional recommendations or enforcement measures to ensure those returning to the area self-isolate.
Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing — very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease. If you develop symptoms, contact public health authorities.
To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. They also recommend minimizing contact with others, staying home as much as possible and maintaining a distance of two metres from other people if you go out.
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