The Chico Natural Foods Cooperative is a mission and values-driven community-owned entity. As such, transparency and information sharing are integral parts of organization’s DNA. We are always striving to be as honest and straightforward as possible with our staff, customers, and the community at large.
Yesterday we received the news that an employee had tested positive for COVID-19. Two weeks ago, this worker informed us they had been directly exposed to the virus outside of the Co-op and immediately called out of work to self-quarantine. They have spent the last two weeks in paid self-isolation, resting and improving their health. They were not experiencing symptoms while at work prior to self-isolation and are currently on the mend!
As per CDC requirements and our in-store positive test protocol, our HR Manager called the Butte County Public Health office. We have employed an external cleaning service to thoroughly disinfect the workspaces this employee may have used. Any Co-op staff who have been determined to have been “exposed”* to the affected employee have been sent home (with pay) to self-isolate until they reach the end of their quarantine period.**
The Health Department feels that the Co-op is acting with thorough due diligence and taking all correct steps to ensure the health and safety of the Co-op.
Even with the smaller footprint of our store, we have been very pro-active in minimizing worker contact, maintaining our 6 feet distances as best possible while working in our small spaces, wearing masks, and sanitizing all areas of the Co-op where workers and customers access. Any appearance of COVID-19 is distressing and worrying, but it also reinforces why we have such robust hygiene policies and practices in place: stringent mask policies, generous and proactive Wellness benefits, and a dedication to in-store sanitization will help keep everyone safe.
We take pride in our commitment to the safety of our store, and will continue to review and adapt our standards to best serve our community.
For shoppers that would like more information about the Co-op’s COVID protocols, or have any other questions about what’s happening, please email liza@chiconaturalfoods.coop.
*According to Butte County Public Health, an “exposed” co-worker is someone who worked within 6 feet of the affected individual for at least 15 minutes straight in an enclosed area.
** Butte County Public Health considers the quarantine period to be 14 days after the last date of close contact with someone who has COVID-19.