H-E-B, Natural Grocers Join Masked Movement

H-E-B has joined the growing number of grocers, including Instacart, Walmart, Amazon and Target, that are providing its workers with masks and gloves for use while at work during the coronavirus pandemic.

The San Antonio-based grocer is “strongly encourag[ing]” its partners who work in its stores, warehouses, manufacturing and transportation facilities to wear the masks it began providing on April 4. Gloves, which were already available to partners, are also provided for use at all H-E-B stores, including Central Market, Joe V’s Smart Shop and Mi Tienda locations.

“As an essential service provider at this time, masks and gloves are just another safeguard we’ve implemented across our company to protect the health and safety of our partners, customers and communities,” said Martin Otto, H-E-B chief operating officer, in a statement. “We are here for all Texans, and we take our role to protect public safety seriously.”

Partners who elect to wear masks and gloves must also continue to follow H-E-B’s strict hygiene and sanitation measures, as well as proper social distancing protocols. Masks must be kept clean and gloves must be regularly changed and properly discarded after use. Employees who wear gloves are still required to wash their hands frequently and apply hand sanitizer.

Providing its employees with masks and gloves is the latest safety precaution taken by the grocer, who has implemented a number of measures, such as the appointment of a dedicated COVID Action Manager in every store. These managers are trained to ensure sanitation and social distancing procedures are properly followed.

Given the nationwide mask shortage, H-E-B recognizes it may encounter supply issues.

“With demand high, we will provide our partners with masks as long as we can maintain supply and continue to look for solutions for our customers as well,” said the grocer.

Natural Grocers of Lakewood, Colo., which has also employed multiple safety measures in its stores, has found a resourceful and creative way to provide all of its crew members with face masks and disposable gloves. Due to the shortage of masks, multiple crew members from all parts of the company have made masks for in-store, distribution center and bulk manufacturing employees.

In addition to hiring 700 temporary workers to assist with cleaning and stocking stores, Natural Grocers has implemented benefits to support its crew members, including raises, bonuses and paid time off. It also pays for all coronavirus/COVID-19 fees for crew members who have medical insurance benefits through Natural Grocers.