COVID-19 Update (1/4/2021)
Almost 1 year into the extraordinary conditions created by the pandemic, the supply situation continues to experience serious disruptions.
We are still seeing shortages of PPE items and disinfectants because they are still being diverted for use by frontline health workers. Most seriously affected are N-95 respirators, disposable gloves, and coveralls.
We have been able to offer substitute items for most forms of PPE, and these substitutes have allowed our customers the protection they require to continue to operate.
In addition to PPE shortages, the supply chain has been affected in random and unexpected ways due to
- Overloaded international shipping ports
- Shipments being diverted to allow rapid transport of vaccines and high-priority goods
- Factory slowdowns and temporary closures caused by outbreaks in production teams
Please review our policies at right to keep your facility supplied to best advantage. We are standing by to assist at (800) 743-9401.
Quick Look
- Items affected by COVID-19 such as masks, suits and gloves have been earmarked with a disclaimer on our web pages. We also have added a badge that appears on these items if they are out of stock.
- Unless you have an order history with HUB prior to 2/1/20, we cannot accept new orders of designated items from you at this time.
- All orders of designated items are not final until approved by an inventory manager.
- Backorders will be filled as inventory becomes available; backorders with 30-day or longer lead time will be canceled.
- Returns of designated items purchased during the pandemic are not returnable.
- Inventory and the supply chain remain strong on items not affected by COVID-19.
- Orders placed by 6:00PM EST on quick-ship items ship the same day. (Look for the QUICKSHIP badge on the product listings on our web site to be assured of availability of that product).
- Our team can be reached at (800) 743-9401 and are ready to serve.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT RETURNS AND SHIPPING TIMES
We are temporarily invoking the following exceptions to our usual policies:
- Returns of Coronavirus-related products are not allowed.
- Our $100 Same-Day-Shipping guarantee will not be honored on Coronavirus-related products.
- You can still see what items are in stock by viewing the item online—if it is accompanied by the QUICKSHIP badge, it is in stock and will ship same day.
Inventory IQ
Our team is fully supporting your inventory IQ solutions during this time. We are available for technical, hardware and product support. Our team can be reached at:
COVID19 Resources
OSHA Advisory Concerning N95 Respirator Shortage
https://www.osha.gov/memos/2020-04-03/enforcement-guidance-respiratory-protection-and-n95-shortage-due-coronavirusCDC Advisory Concerning N95 Respirators
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/respirators-strategy/index.htmlFrequently Asked Questions
How long can a particulate respirator be used before it must be discarded?
Respirator filters, whether disposable or reusable, in some cases can be used for extended periods of time. In other cases, they must be discarded at the end of each shift or sooner. You should always refer to the time use restrictions specified by the manufacturer or regulation. All filters must be replaced whenever they are damaged, soiled, or causing noticeably increased breathing resistance (i.e., causing discomfort to the wearer). Before each use, the outside of the filter material should be inspected. If the filter material is physically damaged or soiled, the filter should be discarded. Employers must develop standard operating procedures for storing, reusing respirators or disposing of respirators that have been designated as disposable. (source: Moldex)
What maintenance and care is required for respirators?
The employer must provide for the cleaning and disinfecting, storage, inspection and repair of respirators used by employees according to the procedures in 29CFR1910.134. (source: Moldex)
