How YPG is navigating COVID-19 and social distancing

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, YPG still manages to maintain 40 to 50 test events a week.

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY)- Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) plays an essential role in supporting our nation's Department of Defense.

On any given week at least 50 test events are taking place at YPG.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, YPG still manages to maintain around 40 to 50 tests a week.

YPG is not only vital to our nation’s defense but also Yuma's economy…

After all, over 80% of its workforce are local civilians and contracted employees.

Col. Ross C. Poppenberger, Commander of YPG said, “When you look at the financial impact, YPG personnel are working, paychecks are coming in.”

Since the start of the pandemic, 20% of YPG's employees are teleworking.

However, as Col. Poppenberger says, "You can’t bring an M1 tank home and work on it."

He added, “Our industrial hygienist and safety personnel go in and decompose all of the tasks that we do. And so some of these jobs that require closer than six-foot spacing we’ve looked at some unique ways to put masks on and follow CDC policies and disinfecting and cleaning tools a little bit more often.”

Having one of the world’s largest military installations right in Yuma's backyard can be beneficial during this pandemic.

Col. Poppenberger says YPG would be able to lend its resources if there is a shortage of PPE, like masks, which can be made from parachute riggers.

If the community does need some of these things, they can put a request in through FEMA and it can trickle down to task YPG.”

YPG’s clinic does have access to COVID-19 test swabs to test its workforce.

So far, all tests have come back negative, but five employees were mandated to self-isolate after displaying just minor symptoms, like a slight fever or cough.