FRONT LINE: UPS Clerk on how COVID-19 has affected deliveries

2020 - Maria Ochoa

While we stay safe indoors, delivery company employees are receiving substantial increases in orders amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We sat down with UPS Clerk Maria Ochoa to talk about how her work life has changed during these times.


SJEarthquakes.com: Tell us about what you do for work.


Maria Ochoa: “I correct customers’ packages, making sure the information on the labels is correct so our customers can receive all of their items.”


SJEQ: What kind of restrictions has COVID-19 put on your job?


MO: “We already work safely so we just have continue doing that by wearing the proper protective gear.”


SJEQ: What is your day-to-day look like at work during these times?


MO: “I correct and distribute packages to our customers, but I’ve been spending a lot of my time cleaning and disinfecting our work area after dealing with every customer.”


SJEQ: Have your coworkers been affected any differently at work?


MO: “Due to COVID-19, we have been experiencing an extremely high volume of packages and deliveries.”


SJEQ: What has been the most challenging aspect of working under these new conditions? What have been the positives for you?


MO: “The most challenging aspect has been trying to make sure that we are all staying safe and keeping our customers safe as well. The biggest positive is knowing that we are doing our part in flattening the curve. When our drivers can deliver items to people’s homes, they can stay safe and avoid contact with others. They can have peace of mind knowing that they can still receive their medication, food etc.”