HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — Steelcase and Herman Miller are just two companies that will continue operating through Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “stay home, stay safe” orders.
In Holland, WestRock, at 13 Fourth St., signs flank the car-filled parking lot, proclaiming, “We manufacture Paper Products & Packaging for the Health Care Industry!”
WHTC spoke with Trans-Matic’s president and owner, P. J. Thompson, as to why the 52-year-old company continues operating. Several people contacted WHTC, asking why the metal stamper continued running shifts, especially after learning a warehouse worker had been diagnosed with COVID-19 on March 24, 2020.
Thompson, a Holland native, said this is “a very painful time” for his company, which is producing parts for refrigeration systems at grocery stores and for hospitals. He said company officials are working with county public health officials in response to the ill employee.
He said more space is being made among employees, and cleaning processes are increased.
Thompson, a Holland native, said this is “a very painful time” for his company, which is producing parts for refrigeration systems at grocery stores and for hospitals. He said company officials are working with county public health officials in response to the ill employee.
He said more space is being made among employees, and cleaning processes are increased — what he called a “plethora of protections, under the guidance of CDC.”
In one of two memos to employees, Thompson wrote, “we are all deeply in this crisis.”
He said employees were given the option to stay home, especially if they have immunity issues, are caring for an ill relative, or are concerned about being in public spaces. If they are not coming in, he said, they’re encourage to apply for unemployment, or use existing paid vacation days, “for the greater safety of the public.”
One person — asked not to be named — complained to police about Trans-Matic’s operations, and received an email from Holland Police Capt. Rick Walters, which stated, in part:
“Given the information provided, we do not have sufficient evidence to believe that they are in violation of the Governor’s order.”
Zeeland-based Herman Miller announced its facilities will make products to support the healthcare industry. Company officials say in a statement 30 percent of its workforce will return on a volunteer basis.
Steelcase officials announced the company will make protective gear like masks and face shields and create more ways to help medical workers.
