Walmart closes for 'deep cleaning' - Hot Springs Sentinel

The Walmart located at 1601 Albert Pike Road was temporarily closed at 2 p.m. Friday to allow for "deep-cleaning and sanitation," the retailer said in a statement, and will reopen at 7 a.m. Sunday.

Charles Crowson, a Walmart communications director, said in an email on Friday the decision was "made based on a number of factors as we focus on safely serving our customers during this unprecedented time."

The statement did not specifically say whether the closure was related to COVID-19.

In an effort to "protect the privacy of associates," Crowson said he was unable to confirm whether the cleaning is a result of positive COVID-19 cases among employees.

Danyelle McNeill, a public information officer with the Arkansas Department of Health, said the department cannot comment on individual cases but can confirm the Walmart location has not been placed on an occupational report that would mean five or more positive cases were reported from associates.

"Everything we're doing is for the well-being of our associates and customers, and in consideration of guidance by the Centers for Disease Control (and Prevention) and health experts," according to the statement from Walmart. "When the store reopens, we will continue conducting associate health screens and temperature checks, and all associates will be provided with face masks and gloves.

"These protocols are in addition to the extensive measures we've put in place during the pandemic to help protect our associates and customers, including installing sneeze guards at registers, temperature checks and mandatory mask-wearing for associates, placing social distancing signage and enacting emergency leave policy for associates who are unable or uncomfortable coming to work. Additionally, through the help of our health ambassadors, we will continue requiring customers to wear protective facial coverings while inside the building.

"We will continue working closely with elected and local health officials, adjusting how we serve the community while also keeping the health and safety of our customers and associates in mind."

Crowson said he is unable to confirm if other local Walmarts will be temporarily closing for cleaning, but the corporation has been working to ensure its stores are cleaned and sanitized regularly.

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