COVID-19, also known as Coronavirus, is the global pandemic that has been sweeping across the world at an alarming rate. Before any initial diagnosis from the World Health Organization (WHO), the virus had been spreading rapidly and silently. Some individuals infected by the virus are asymptomatic, showing no signs of being ill, while others report symptoms of trouble breathing (lower oxygen levels), fever, and coughing. Both types of infected individual are equally dangerous, making COVID-19 the deadly disease it is proving to be.
COVID-19 in Colorado
At the request of Centura Health Executives and with the direction of PalAmerican Leadership, it was quickly coordinated that a response from the ground floor at St. Francis Medical Center and Penrose Hospital was required to support operations at St. Anthony's (a hospital we do not currently provide service to) in Frisco, Colorado during the first confirmed case of Coronavirus. Within hours, a list of volunteers was compiled from both St. Francis and Penrose, sites where we do provide service. While this action reduced both site’s immediate manpower, the remaining Security teams stepped up to cover the facilities in order to maintain compliance with the contract to support the overall efforts in response to COVID-19.
Less than six hours from the initial request, Clinton Roberts and Omaid Wali had been relieved of their shifts early so that they could go home and pack for their new assignment at St. Anthony’s. After a three-hour drive to Frisco, Colorado, one of the officers went to work immediately and the other followed a few hours later. Moving right in to 12-hour shifts, both officers successfully provided protection services and kept the media at bay during the initial outbreak of COVID-19. The officers remained at St. Anthony’s for several days before returning to their home sites in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
"This was a challenge we accepted knowing the risks involved and we will continue to support our PalAmerican Family and our clients." – Security Officer Clinton Roberts
The officers readily entered into a difficult atmosphere and quickly adapted to a new facility and specific site policies, as well as helped coordinate a plan of operations with the staff. Both Roberts and Wali have embodied, and continue to embody, the PalAmerican Difference which our principles are founded upon. They provided critical support in a time of great need for the client and have set a positive example for all of our officers.
"I was excited to do this assignment and appreciate the opportunities as I am meeting new people and learning new things." – Security Officer Omaid Wali
In times of crisis people often come together to help one another get through the difficult moments, which is exactly what Roberts, Wali, and their Site Supervisor Abdul Wesal were able to do. The outstanding leadership and dedication these three individuals has shown during a critical situation does not go unnoticed. Extraordinary effort to tackle tough times in Colorado deserves a job well done!
On behalf of your PalAmerican Family, thank you all for your tremendous dedication and hard work during COVID-19.
How PalAmerican is keeping our employees safe during COVID-19
The safety and security of our frontline staff is of utmost importance to us during the COVID-19 outbreak. Our staff are provided with PPE such as N95 masks, safety glasses, gloves and access to hand sanitizer. Please help us in supporting all frontline workers by respecting social distancing at this time.
Helping a Community
PalAmerican is doubling our efforts to support our clients across the nation. If you want to join the cause and support as a front line worker, we are hiring in a number of positions and locations.
Learn more about working at PalAmerican or find out why you should become a security officer.