MARCH 7, 2020 (updates subsequently)
Here are common questions and answers related to VXI’s efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Our priority focus is on the safety and welfare of our employees and the business continuity of our clients.
What’s been done?
Corporately/Global Preventative Measures:
Starting in early February, a strict preventive measures action plan was developed and communicated across the VXI enterprise, including:
Regular communication to educate employees about Coronavirus and how to prevent it
Social media and Intranet-based campaigns providing preventative information in clear and engaging info-graphic format
Distribution of face masks
Intensified cleanliness and sanitation of facilities
Additional hand sanitizers in all lobbies and throughout each site
Constant health advisories
Coordination with Department of Health (where available) for local updates
Strict compliance on food safety by our concessionaires, where applicable
Thermal testing of employees and daily health checks
Enforced social distancing at our facilities
Exploring work-at-home (WAH) options
FAQs
Wha t approach is VXI taking for Contingency Planning? VXI is in process of finalizing a work from home strategy where appropriate. This strategy is very program-, site-, and/or geography-specific, and we are working with local subject mater experts to understand how we could implement a work from home strategy within the constrains of each scenario. Collaboratively we will develop mobilization plans to address this unlikely scenario.
For services that cannot be performed remotely and require onsite presence, what is VXI’s ba c kup or contingency location to continue to provide services? W e have had discussions with clients, and are working through BCP/DRP options to meet unique needs and business requirements. These options include from remote working, additional Geography and shifting contact volume to alternative locations (outsourced or internal) and/or geographies.
Does VXI see any global risk to services or availability of staff in certain places? A t this time VXI does not see any risk. As we actively monitor local situations, we continue to encourage our teams to remain vigilant on preventative measures, and strive to operate in a way that minimizes impact to our client’s customers. Where most significantly impacted, our mainland China operations are now back to 90% production.
I s VXI restricting travel for employees? Yes , VXI has cancelled all international travel and restricted all domestic travel to ‘essential only’ w i th approval from our C-Suite officers.
I f one of VXI sites identifies a confirmed case within the employee base, is there a closure requirement? At VXI our passion is truly for our people and we have a clear protocol in place for our employee should there is a suspected case. We have comminuted to all our employees that we are here to support them and should there be any concern we will provide transportation to the closest medical facility for screening.
S hould there be a confirmed case we would work with the impacted clients/customers to mobilize an alternative BCP as best we can. Options include leveraging an alternative site or remote working, where possible. In the event of a confirmed case, we would close the impacted site and self-quarantine staff for the timeframe recommended by the WHO, or according to local government mandated protocols.
How does VXI make sure that the precautionary measures are being followed/sustained? I n early January as the Coronavirus started to become more prevalent we immediately i mplemented our education and preventative measures program as outlined in the appendix below.
W e have posted reminders through our global facilities and have weekly communications going out to all staff. In addition, our facilities leaders and staff with the support of our HR teams have increased their presence to reinforce our preventative measures.
Does VXI supply/require the use of masks daily? T he company has provided masks to staff in specific geographies, however, our focus has and continues to be on education. As more information has been made available, most official sources recommend against mask use in the general public, recognizing they can create a false sense of security.
W e strive to ensure our employees who choose to wear masks are wearing them properly, and remain diligent about all other aspects of hygiene that have proven much more effective (regular, proper handwashing and limiting contact). We will continue to monitor local situations and evaluate mask use, as needed.
Does VXI have thermal scanners in each site? O u r China-based operations are equipped with ear and forehead thermometers as mandated by the Chinese Government. In the Philippines all employees are being scanned. In North America and Nearshore, scanning will begin approximately 3/16/2020. Our focus remains on education and preventative measures at this time.
Are there any changes to the VXI BCP and/or DRP, and any steps you are taking to minimize risk of outbreak? VXI has formulated and launched emergency protocols and established an epidemic task team(s) immediately to minimize the potential risk. We actively contact vendors to promote the procurement of anti-epidemic materials to ensure the daily business.
W e ’ v e also made great efforts to manage the current health condition information and travel statistics of employees where appropriate. We are in the process of implementing contingency plans as mentioned, preparing for work from home service delivery where appropriate.
Does VXI have confirmed cases and deaths? N o, as of 3/16/2020, VXI has no known cases of COVID-19.
Official Information and Impact Statements:
Extensive information is circulated about the Coronavirus, we recommend and leverage verified sources such as that from the World Health Organization (WHO). https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/situation-reports
