COVID-19: Focus on employee health and well-being
March 16, 2020
Team, There is no doubt these are challenging times for everyone. It’s times like these that give us perspective on what really matters. Like you, what matters to me above all else is the health and well-being of my family and my fellow employees at Seaspan. I can assure you that the Washington family shares these same values and their first priority is your personal health and the health of your family.
Over the weekend many of you would have seen reports concerning the spread of the COVID-19 virus across the globe. Clearly this pandemic is an international health crisis. However, it’s reassuring to know that in Canada we are fortunate to have one of the best healthcare systems in the world. As citizens of this great country, it is our civic duty to prevent our public medical system from becoming overwhelmed by this virus.
The good news is that each of us can significantly reduce the chance of contracting or spreading COVID-19 by simply being more aware of a few basic practices, like regularly and thoroughly washing our hands, coughing into an arm or sneezing into a tissue, and avoiding unnecessary travel and crowds. It is important to remember that while the virus is highly contagious and a very serious health threat to the elderly and those with compromised immune systems, public health authorities are advising that most people who contract the virus will experience only mild symptoms and should recover fully in a relatively short period of time.
I want to assure you that we are following every precaution and preventive measure recommended by the relevant health authorities to minimize the risk for employees. Our COVID-19 response committee led by our CAO Brent Hale will continue to closely monitor developments and respond quickly and proactively. Additionally, we are implementing a wellness@seaspan.com email address to direct any medical questions to a team of medical professionals contracted by Seaspan to assist during this unprecedented time.
As you are all aware, at Seaspan we play a critical role in the supply chain of many key industries within British Columbia and across this country. There is no doubt, whether they know it or not, Canadians across the country depend on Seaspan to ensure the Port of Vancouver remains open for business and that much-needed food and medical supplies are delivered to their local stores and hospitals. Communities on Vancouver Island are particularly dependent on the employees of Seaspan Ferries. While we have a duty to stay healthy for our families we also have a duty to stay healthy for every Canadian.
My ask of every Seaspan employee is that you closely monitor your personal health. If you are feeling unwell, work from home if you can and speak to your manager. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, or if you have come in direct contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19, please self isolate and contact the health authority by dialing 811. If you have not had contact with anyone known to be infected and you are healthy, please come to work. We need you!
Sincerely,
Frank Butzelaar
Chief Executive Officer, Seaspan Marine Transportation