WOODTV: Autocam Medical: Keeping Workers Safe
As the debate continues about the health risks and economic benefits of getting Michigan to work, the owner of a West Michigan company that has remained open says industry can go forward if safeguards are enforced.
Kentwood-based Autocam Medical, which makes precision-machined surgical drill bits, drivers, screws, plates, cutting tools and other complex medical device components, is already following safety rules.
“We have the advantage of operating in China,” owner John Kennedy said, explaining that meant Autocam had to adopt stringent guidelines the Chinese government instituted to prevent another outbreak.
Kennedy has brought those best practices to his U.S. plants, creating what he believes is a back-to-work path other manufacturers could follow.
“We just took those same practices and said, ‘OK, they seem to be working in China… we haven’t had any infection or anything else, so let’s adopt them here,’” Kennedy said. “I think coming into our plant is a lot safer than what I’ve seen when I go to the grocery store.”
Each Autocam employee’s temperature is checked before every shift. Those who are not feeling well, even if it’s just a cold, are told to stay home at full pay. Everyone who does work wears a mask.
Kennedy believes social distancing is making the biggest difference. A single chair is located at every break room table to prevent employee congregation. The same distancing procedures extend to the production floor.
