Tightly scheduled reports, precise monitoring

Every week, LANXESS summarizes global infection activity according to data from the Center for Systems Science and Johns Hopkins University, comparing international trends with those at its own sites. The specialty chemicals group has about 14,400 employees in 33 countries, including 7,600 in Germany. So far, there have been just 525 confirmed COVID-19 infections across the whole company, 187 of which were in Germany. Holidaymakers may have played a role in this if not for the fact they self-isolated at home as soon as they returned to Germany. LANXESS has no evidence that infected persons in the offices or the plants continued the chains of infection. The Group sees this as proof that its safety concepts are effective.

Five protective barriers for everyone

These concepts include five protective barriers that apply equally to all operations and areas:

• Isolation of affected individuals when they show symptoms of illness
• Hygiene
• Social distancing
• Ventilation
• Masks

Safe masks? Tests? Of course!

LANXESS provides production employees with both surgical and FFP masks. FFP masks were already in widespread use, even before the new regulation was issued by the Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs on January 20. There are also temperature check stations at all Chempark entrances. If employees wish to be tested, they can do so at the Chemparks. The detailed formulation of rules, for example for social rooms and toilets, is based on the risk assessment and the evaluations of the safety officers.

Genuine motivation is part of success

LANXESS ensures that infection control works in practice with traditional and digital communication methods and the necessary equipment. Contact-free shift handovers, permanent observation of social distancing regulations at the plant, and the balancing of family and work duties when working from home all require a lot of work. LANXESS recognizes the efforts its employees are making and supports them. Discussions are held with supervisors to find solutions for childcare, reducing overtime, unpaid leave and time off.