NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — In order to protect employees as they get back to work, state officials just launched a new program to help business owners test their employees for COVID-19.
Any company that employs at least 250 people can apply online for a pop-up testing event for their workers. Manufacturing businesses are especially encouraged to take advantage of this program.
These employees are especially at risk because they work closely. Last month, we told you about two large clusters of COVID-19 at the Tyson plants in Goodlettsville and Shelbyville. Hundreds of employees tested positive for coronavirus in those outbreaks. The company put a long list of precautions in place as a result including checking employees temperatures and deep cleaning both plants before reopening.
While it may seem like many businesses don't have 250 employees, you'd be surprised by the statistics. According to the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, more than 84,000 people work in the manufacturing industry alone. In addition, 40,000 businesses call Music City home with dozens of those employing more than 1,200 people each.
The state is working to test two percent of the population each month. If you are a business owner who would like to coordinate a pop-up testing event for your company, here’s a link to apply online.
