Updated May 1st, 2020- Happy Friday,
After 6 long weeks of battling Covid19, we are starting to see some positive outcomes from our efforts. While infections and deaths have been extensive, (particularly in our most vulnerable facilities), the sacrifices we’ve all made have had the effect of greatly reducing the potential infection and death rates from initial “worst-case” scenarios. And while this battle continues, it is now moving into a new phase. Many businesses and industries are being allowed to re-open, albeit under strict protocols, and we are starting the process of re-opening our economy. We are very excited to note that Landscaping is named as one of these businesses, and starting May 4, we will be able to provide all of our services, including Landscape Construction!
Snow Removal and Grounds Maintenance were both initially named as an essential services. As such we’ve had the responsibility and “luxury” of producing a limited amount of field work using new COVID19 protocols over the past few weeks. The MPS Standards we are operating under are actually more stringent than the protocols outlined yesterday by the Provincial Government. For example, all crews have been extensively trained in COVID protocols, PPE’s have been tailored to our needs, info-posters have been displayed. However, we’ve gone even further. We’ve altered our entire “morning startup process” to be completely outdoors, adjusted our “safety huddles” and training systems to accommodate smaller groups, and we’ve equipped our trucks with plexi-glass barriers to separate occupants when it’s not possible to have each employee drive separately. We recently conducted an internal survey, and our staff are very comfortable with the training and safety protocols that are in place. Of course, we will make new accommodations anytime our health authorities recommend them.
Until a vaccine is developed, our new “normal” will consist of accommodations for COVID. Field operations will be modified, and sales and administration activities will be equally affected. We have been able to continue our sales and design functions remotely, and have been pleasantly surprised at both how this has been received, and at the volume of sales. Early indicators are that there is surprising confidence in our economy. I know we all hope this trend will continue going forward-our landscape construction team is excited to “dig in” and produce beautiful landscapes, and our maintenance team is working hard to keep them beautiful. As always, please reach out if you have any questions.
#Safeandreadytowork!
Jim Monk President CSP,