Hallite’s manufacturing facilities in Wixom, Michigan, have weathered many storms over the years.
In winter, heavy snow, winds, and uncomfortably-low temperatures may disrupt business, causing staff, customers, and suppliers to adjust, but they manage through it. Today, the team is facing a much different kind of storm in the form of a global health crisis, requiring every effort to manage through it with health and safety as a priority.
The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is one of the biggest events in history, and at the writing of this article, the U.S. is at the center of the crisis with more people affected by the virus than any other country in the world. Michigan is one of the hardest hit regions in the U.S. — third behind New York and New Jersey, and ahead of California. The Wixom plant is located in a designated red zone as part of the Detroit region. Every U.S. state is now under a major disaster declaration requiring that residents, except for essential workers, stay at home. Hallite Americas is responding in several ways.
Employees at the Wixom plant receive Infrared temperature checks before their shift begins
Infrared temperature checks are taken on each shift. No one with virus or flu-like symptoms is allowed on-site. Social distancing, hand sanitizing, and increased cleaning of the facilities in accordance with guidance provided by the government and healthcare authorities are in practice. More stringent controls have been added and undertaken with the return-to-work process. Only essential vendors can enter the Wixom facility and only after completing a questionnaire and temperature screening. Until further notice, staff travel to customer locations, customer visits, and visits from remote sales team members have been suspended.
“We are attempting to maintain business as usual while adhering to both federal and state guidelines issued to battle the spread of the virus,” said Mike Baxter, Managing Director of Hallite Americas.
“The plant is fully operational whilst part of our office staff are working from home following the Stay-in-Place order issued by the state of Michigan. Staff working remotely have full access to our systems, which mitigates interruptions.
“Depending on the length of mandatory closures by government agencies, a few vendors may impact deliveries. We are working diligently to evaluate options and inform customers well in advance of any potential issues with delivery on a select number of product lines.”
Committed to staying a step ahead
Hallite’s fluid power seals are used in a variety of essential equipment
By working with customers to expedite the delivery of products necessary to build critical equipment, Hallite supports the industries essential to keep vital infrastructure moving. Examples include: telescopic cranes used on boom trucks to repair and maintain utility lines; agricultural equipment that farmers rely on to manage crops; material handling forklifts used in food distribution and warehousing, and hydraulic cylinder systems that power medical equipment. The team is also shipping any product that is available for open orders in advance if the customer is willing.
“Special shipping and production runs are just a few of many actions undertaken to support customers in this unprecedented situation,” said Mike. “We will do whatever possible to maintain product production while protecting the health and safety of our team members.”
By staying informed, closely monitoring the situation, and maintaining strong communication with customers and suppliers, Hallite is committed to managing through these challenging times.
“There will be issues that require contingencies, but we tend to find the best solutions when we work together.”
