Indiana Packers Corporation says they have decided to temporarily suspend operations at its Delphi facility.
DELPHI, Ind. (WTHR) - Indiana Packers Corporation said they have decided to temporarily suspend operations at their Delphi facility.
The company said the decision was based on the increasing number of positive tests of COVID-19 in neighboring communities and reports that Indiana is closing in on the expected peak of infections.
“Given the uncertainty so inherent with this pandemic,” IPC President & Chief Operating Officer Russ Yearwood said. “We are committed to be as proactive as we possibly can so as to best ensure the health and safety of our team members. This short pause is part of the ongoing effort.”
The company said the plant has had a total of 15 confirmed positive cases.
The company says they have conducted further plant-wide sanitization and worked to implement the latest CDC guidance for meat processing facilities, issued on April 25.
Beginning Thursday, the State Department of Health is conducting COVID-19 testing for all employees at the Delphi facility over a two-day period.
Over the past several months, plant officials say they have implemented a number of CDC-recommended changes, including significant measures to maximize physical distancing, enhanced daily cleaning and sanitization, and team member screenings and temperature checks at the start of each work shift.
According to the company, the temporary suspension is expected to last no longer than two weeks, during which affected employees will be paid.
Company officials say they recognize the impact this temporary closure will have on the community, including important partners in the farming and agriculture industry.
Indiana Packers is one of the largest pork producers in Carroll County.
