The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), the apex body of Sri Lanka’s apparel industry, has said that it is closely monitoring the situation given the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases across the country. JAAF is also exploring, in coordination with public health authorities, ways of increasing protection for the communities where factories are located.

"Media reportage about the rapid increase in COVID-19 infections has been growing.  Since the initial outbreak in 2020, The Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF) and member companies continue to closely monitor the risk of spread at their factories and facilities," JAAF said in a press release.

As of September 9, over 90 per cent of the workers at the factories have been vaccinated with one dose, while over 70 per cent of the workforce has received both doses. "At the current pace of vaccinations, we anticipate that the entire workforce will have received both their doses by the end of September 2021," the release said.

JAAF member companies are also ensuring that companies involved in the supply chain, and service providers such as cafeteria services, security personnel and those who transport workers and material to and from the factories are vaccinated as well. Many companies have already begun this process, and JAAF members hope to complete vaccinating all such personnel very soon.

In addition, social distancing and other safety protocols mandated by the Ministry of Health are being strictly monitored and implemented. Many factories have created safe and secure environments for workers – isolated to teams – to reduce the risk of spread.

Since the outbreak of the pandemic early last year, JAAF members have been complying with testing requirements and standards in strict accordance with Ministry of Health requirements. Factories are also ensuring ventilation systems are appropriately effective and fully functional. Further, factories are conducting continuous awareness programmes to keep workers informed of the current situation and the latest developments.

JAAF said its members take the mental and physical well-being of their workforce very seriously and are doing everything they must to ensure the safety of their people.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RKS)

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