The interim president of Giant Food said Tuesday it will put temporary plexiglass shields at cash registers, service desks and pharmacies to promote the 6 feet apart social distancing rule, according to a press release.

As an essential business, Giant Food is taking extra measures to protect its staff who work every day. 

Ira Kress, Interim President of Giant Food, said temporary plexiglass shields will go up at high traffic areas in Giant stores to promote social distancing. 

Additionally, signs will be put up around stores, encouraging people to stay 6 feet apart from one another.

On top of new procedures, Kress said additional security, known as asset protection teams, will work around the clock to ensure safety of customers and staff while preventing disruptions in stores.

Kress said, even though not recommended by the CDC, some staff members have chosen to wear gloves or masks while working and are given permission to do so. Kress emphasized if customers see workers wearing masks and gloves, they are not sick. Any staff that shows signs of being ill, have been instructed not to return to work "under any circumstances," Kress said. 

Effective Friday, most Giant stores will change their store hours to be open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.