News

Center begins phased return to full capacity

  • Published
  • By Amy Schiess

The Air Force Sustainment Center is beginning a phased “Return to Full Capacity” at all of its locations after recent adjustments to operations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Each wing and Complex within AFSC is implementing return measures informed by local public health conditions and mission priorities. Leadership emphasizes that new safety, distancing and cleanliness measures will remain in place.

“As we incrementally bring people back into our work areas and open more base facilities, we must remain vigilant in doing everything possible to prevent the spread of the virus,” said Lt. Gen. Gene Kirkland, AFSC commander. “Face masks are available to every employee, and I ask everyone to do their part to protect teammates by wearing it whenever social distancing cannot be practiced. We will continue to ensure the health of our workforce while we balance mission readiness.”

Thousands of employees transitioned to telework, were granted safety leave, or applied social distancing and other safety practices in work spaces during the modification to operations that began in March.

“I’m grateful and proud of our personnel, who have been so flexible and adaptive over the past several weeks,” Kirkland said. “Our mission continued because of the commitment of these individuals. Impacts to Air Force readiness were minimal impact as a result of our dedicated workforce.”

Supervisors will notify employees when any changes take effect for their organization and what social distancing and safety measures are to be followed.

Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, has already begun its return to full capacity.

Installation leadership is following a phased approach, bringing back groups of personnel and reopening services over a span of time to ensure operations are adjusted as smoothly and safely as possible.

The decision to move from one phase to the next is data-driven, utilizing information from the 78th Medical Group Public Health professionals as they track COVID-19 cases and recoveries. The protection of Robins workforce is a priority, and teams across the base are ensuring everyone not only has the personal protective supplies they need, but they are also adhering to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines minimizing any spread of COVID-19.