COVID-19 Response – March 29:
The last few weeks have brought challenges to our communities that we never could have predicted. As the spread of COVID-19 continues across the globe, the Textile Technology Center at Gaston College implemented the recommendations of the CDC for frequent handwashing, social distancing and social isolation as we’ve worked to continue our support of the textile industry and the fight against COVID-19.
Like many other businesses are discovering in the midst of this pandemic, the impacts of coronavirus can become very personal. On the evening of March 27, 2020, we received the unfortunate news that one of our employees at the Textile Technology Center tested positive for coronavirus. Our thoughts and support are with all of those who are fighting this disease, their family members, and also with our health, medical and first responder communities who are on the front lines every day fighting this pandemic.
While all recommended practices have been followed at the center, and no other employees are showing symptoms at this time, in an abundance of precaution, employees have been contacted and were requested to self-quarantine through April 12, 2020 and monitor their health. During this time, the Textile Center will be closed and we will be working with the local health department to ensure proper protocols are followed.
All of us at the Textile Technology Center remain committed to supporting our customers and we look forward to resuming operations on April 13, 2020. If you have any questions you can contact me at 704.825.6260 or Buff.Sam@gaston.edu.
Sincerely,
Sam Buff
Textile Technology Center Director
COVID-19 Response – March 17:
The impact of the COVID-19 virus in the United States is difficult to predict and will remain uncertain for the foreseeable future. Out of an abundance of caution, the Textile Technology Center (TTC) is taking precautions to keep our customers and staff members healthy and safe.
Effective immediately, all business travel by TTC personnel must be deemed critical prior to being scheduled. This includes TTC staff members traveling to customers/suppliers/industry events and/or customers/suppliers traveling to the TTC. The TTC leadership team will provide final approval for any travel.
Our staff members will operate business as usual. Samples for the labs/process areas may be dropped off at the reception area, drop box to the left of the Microscopy Lab entrance at the back of the building, container outside of the front entrance or delivered to us via your preferred carrier. Drop box visuals can be found below.
These restrictions will remain in place until further notice and will be updated as more information is available. Please visit our website or our LinkedIn for the latest updates.
The TTC understands that these precautions may impact the way we interact over the coming months. We ask for your understanding as we focus on the health and well-being of our staff and customers.
Should you have any questions, please reach out to your TTC contacts.
Sincerely,
Sam Buff, Textile Technology Center
