Covid 19 Prevention Policy

 

We understand that the current Covid 19 pandemic is an un-precedated and rapidly changing situation which is effecting the lives of individuals and families worldwide right now. We are all now coming to terms with the reality of our interconnected world and a new way of doing things in order to prevent the spread of the virus and save lives.

Many business's in France have had to reconsider their normal working practices in order to continue to provide a product or service safely and responsibly to its customers. I have written this policy for customers who would like more information about the working practices of BOTANY FRANCE so that they can make a considered purchase during this time. 

On government advice and after an announcement made by president Macron on the 16th March 2020 we decided to stop all orders as of the 17th March 2020. This means that we did not accept or deliver any new orders from retail partners or online customers from this date. Due to confinement restrictions it was no longer possible to access postal/courrier services or deliver products. 

However during this time we have continued to make our products in our small batches at my home atelier here in the Haute Charente, France. Due to the nature of candle making many of our normal Health, Safety and Quality control practices mean that we are well prepared. However we have considered government advice and have updated our procedures accordingly. During each production process we make the following precautions both for the consideration of our customers and ourselves.

- The atelier is wiped down and cleaned with disinfectant BEFORE & AFTER each working period and between batches of products when necessary.

- When at work I am in clean designated overalls and also wear a clean apron to protect my clothing from spills and heated wax.

- I ensure my hands are clean before each working period and I am wearing gloves before I start. It is also necessary that I wear a mask as the natural oils can be very strong when concentrated and heated at volume. I now understand that it is important to wear a mask throughout the process until the items are packed for delivery, changing a mask if a break is needed.

-All components of the products are stored in a clean and enclosed environment. 

- Social distancing is practiced at all times and quite often I am working alone in any case.

- I understand that it is important that if a person experiences symptoms of the Covid 19 virus that a period of isolation of 14 days must pass. Therefore should I experience any symptoms of illness at the time of production or packing orders will not be accepted and any orders which are un-fulfilled at the time will be re-funded in full.

-When making deliveries to local suppliers I will be wearing the required PPE inclusive of face mask and gloves and following social distancing requirements.

Please also be aware that there is likely to be a delay to the normal delivery times noted in our delivery policy. The president has announced that as of the 11 May 2020 business's can re-open as part of a de-confinement process, following the guidelines and if local department is coded "green". Therefore we will be be able to fulfil orders after this date.

This is a very strange time for everyone and I would like to thank all of our partners and customers for their support during this difficult time. Humans have a very adaptable nature and as such we will find new ways of connecting and coping with this change. I really hope that part of that will mean small business and artisans will become a more prominent choice in the future, considering their commitment to their art and the particular care they take for their customers. 

Communication is key so if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us, we would love to hear from you!