COVID Response: Meet Harmanpreet Kaur

COVID Response: Meet Harmanpreet Kaur

Everything we do here at Superfeet is filtered through the lens of our Brand Truths, a set of drivers that guide our actions. One of those truths is People First — together we're more than a company, we're a community. As the threat of COVID-19 became clear, we jumped into action to take care of our community, connecting with local hospitals to see how we could help. Within a matter of days, we made a quick pivot from manufacturing insoles to creating PPE.

We're pleased to introduce you to a few of the people responsible for this exciting initiative.


Harman has been working in production at Superfeet for the past six years and is now one of the team members on 2nd shift working to produce PAPR Hoods, PPE that is in critical shortage and high demand in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Superfeet:

What parts of production were you involved with at Superfeet before COVID-19 and what do you do now?

Harman:

Before making PAPR Hoods, I was making custom insoles and packaging them. That work prepared me well for this new focus where I’m packing and labeling PAPR hoods for distribution.

My role is basically to take the 3D-printed port and attach it to the hood. It’s then packaged and put into boxes for shipping.

Superfeet:

When were you made aware of the pivot we were making from insoles to PPE?

Harman:

We were in lockdown for about a week when I found out about this project. About two weeks after lockdown we had the opportunity to return to work, with health and safety measures in place, to start helping the community. It was a very quick decision, but the change was made easier because we work as a team, so everyone was helping each other. We just came in and got started.

Superfeet:

Are you still working with the same team of people you did before the pandemic?

Harman:

I do but now our team is split so we have more room in the facility for social distancing.

It is a bit different and strange now because we wear masks and gloves and have to stay away from one another. It is a little hard for me not to interact with people like I used to - we are really careful with everything. And there is a lot of handwashing!

Superfeet:

And how does working on PAPR Hoods make you feel?

Harman:

I feel really blessed to be a part of this project and knowing that I am contributing towards the safety of healthcare workers and the fight against COVID-19. I don’t personally know any first responders but I really respect the work they’re doing for our community. It’s a blessing to know we are doing something to help the community.

I think it’s the same for the entire team. We all feel very proud of the work we’re doing everyday to help the community. Everyone feels safe and is just so ready to work. We come in saying, “Oh, we can do this” and the first question we ask when we arrive is, “How many hoods are we making today?” Everyone is just so involved.

Superfeet:

It’s tough work to manufacture, package and distribute 1000-1500 PAPR hoods a day. Where are you finding inspiration and energy?

Harman:

The work is actually fun - it’s different. And it almost feels like playing a game. Everyone connecting parts and working together. So, not really exhausting or stressful at all. And it’s my basic instinct to help people when they’re in need. And also, during hard times like this, I like to watch inspirational videos and plenty of funny shows. Laughter is the best medicine.


May 20, 2020