Walmart starting daily employee temperature checks

Because many Walmart and other big box stores sell groceries and prescriptions, it is essential that they stay open during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Walmart is taking steps to protect its employees and customers, though. In an announcement made via Twitter Tuesday morning, the chain said it will begin daily temperature checks as employees report for work.

To better serve our customers and promote a safe and healthy workplace for our associates, we are taking the following actions in our U.S.-based stores, clubs and supply chain locations over the next few weeks: https://t.co/igHAh7JZk5 pic.twitter.com/LZY4GvU0r7

— Walmart Inc. (@WalmartInc) March 31, 2020

“Any associate with a temperature of 100.0 degrees will be paid for reporting to work and asked to return home and seek medical treatment if necessary,” Walmart said in statement. “The associate will not be able to return to work until they are fever-free for at least three days.”

The chain will also make masks and gloves available to employees who want to wear them. The supply of masks will be available within a week or two.

“We encourage anyone who would like to wear a mask or gloves at work to ask their supervisor for them, while keeping in mind that it is still possible to spread germs while wearing them,” Walmart said.

Walmart is also introducing a new framework for staying healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic, asking them to remember the numbers 6, 20 and 100.

• 6 feet is the amount of space people should keep from others, when possible, to maintain social distancing.
• 20 seconds is the amount of time people should take to wash their hands with soap and water.
• And 100 is the temperature that someone should stay home with.

“We will continue to consult with health officials and experts inside and outside Walmart as this situation evolves,” Walmart said. “We greatly appreciate the work our associates are doing for customers, members, and their communities, and we will continue to prioritize their health and well-being.”