Amazon extends work from home status until Oct. 2 for eligible employees

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In light of the novel coronavirus pandemic, Amazon is encouraging eligible employees to work from home until early October to limit the spread of the virus and keep workers safe.

An Amazon spokesperson said Thursday the company is prioritizing the health of its employees and following local government guidance in making the decision.

"Employees who work in a role that can effectively be done from home are welcome to do so until at least October 2," the spokesperson said in a statement. "We are working hard and investing significant funds to keep those who choose to come to the office safe through physical distancing, deep cleaning, temperature checks, and the availability of face coverings and hand sanitizer.”

Amazon's profit fell 29 percent in the first quarter but the online retail behemoth's sales soared as more people opt to shop online during the coronavirus pandemic.

Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos said the company will likely spend at least $4 billion during the second quarter in order to speed up delivery times and buy masks and other protection equipment for workers in its warehouses and Whole Foods supermarkets.

This article first appeared on KOMO News.

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