Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1295551
B E S T P L A C E S TO W O R K 2 0 2 0 7 federal guidance and company-specific implementation based on factors such as how individual departments func- tioned, site safety and staff coverage. Centralized hubs of information helped keep people abreast of emerging infor- mation. Leadership often increased the frequency of their all-staff communica- tions and invited employees to share their concerns. In the office and on job sites, it's been all about following safety guidance. Companies have instituted physical distancing protocols, required masks for those not able to follow the six-foot separation rule, distributed personal protective equipment, installed hand- sanitizer stations at key traffic points such as elevators, printers and rest- rooms, provided hygiene kits for field teams, created detailed protocols for disinfecting surfaces, and installed safety signage. One company even set up automatic pop-up reminders on its staff 's computers that remind them to wash and sanitize regularly. Some organizations have instituted temperature screening and mandatory self-certification protocols. Other specif- ics include the installation of no-touch faucets in bathrooms and kitchens, and stocking up on wipes, gloves and other sanitary equipment. Vendors might be required to leave products at the door, or visitors might have to complete screening guidelines and questionnaires before they can enter offices. Outdoor seating areas were created so employees could take their lunch breaks outside or associates to meet with clients. Companies that typically interact with customers in-person created mar- keting messages on their websites to reflect new procedures, such as making appointments before arrival and taking advantage of online buying. With companies unable to hold their usual staff-wide gatherings and cel- ebrations, one firm put together bas- kets with personalized gifts for all of its employees and mailed them to their homes. It is clear that responding to the pan- demic in a positive way was a priority for all organizations on the Best Places to Work list this year. This serves to confirm the commitment to employee satisfaction and safety as well as a healthy, well-rounded workplace. THEIR HARVEST FEEDS OUR FAMILIES, AND KEEPS US GOING. Whether they're planting corn, growing potatoes, or trapping lobsters, they are devoted to harvesting the food that feeds our families. They're in it for us, and we're honored to be here for them. Follow their stories at: www.sbsavings.bank/heart-and-soul C M Y CM MY CY CMY K ai160079087049_MaineBiz Best Places to Work Ad.pdf 1 9/22/2020 12:07:50 PM It is clear that responding to the pandemic in a positive way was a priority for all organizations on the Best Places to Work list this year. Landry/French workers renovate Abbott Laboratories' new Westbrook site in July. The plant was fitted out so the company could produce 50 million new low-cost rapid COVID-19 tests per month. Photo by Tim Greenway.