As the coronavirus pandemic continues to change the way we work and relate to one another around the world, business remains brisk here at Washington Cold Storage, and we have adapted the way we work and serve our clients to ensure health and safety is being prioritized first and foremost.
For drivers who come into our facility, there are a few significant changes. First, we are no longer permitting drivers on our docks. Drivers are encouraged to stay in their trucks or remain a safe distance from others while outside. Additionally, we have set up a portable toilet for drivers, who are normally welcome to use the restrooms in our warehouse.
Signing in and out now occurs at a safe distance. All paperwork is being copied for our clients, and originals are being destroyed to protect against any potential traces of the virus on paperwork.
The small staff in the Puyallup administrative office is keeping one person on-site with others working remotely, trading off on a rotating schedule.
Washington Cold Storage General Manager Mitch Brown said the new health and safety measures began in mid-March and will continue until further notice. He said business has remained strong during the pandemic, and warehouse space is starting to become scarce.
“We’re seeing restaurant orders go away and product going a different direction, but business has remained steady,” he said. “Things aren’t leaving as much anymore. Stuff is coming in, but it isn’t going out as much. We’re filling up.”
