Corporate Communications

DATE: October 7, 2021

FROM: Mike Voight, CHRO

SUBJECT: COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement Process Details

All:

As a follow-up to Fred’s e-mail this morning, this message will outline the process and timeline related to Merit’s recently communicated COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement.

Our objectives in designing this process and timeline are to provide sufficient time for employees to consider the Company’s requirement and to act accordingly. Together as a company, we are working to create an environment whereby the safety and health of our employees, and all those with whom we interact on a professional basis, are protected to the greatest extent possible. This will be achieved through the combination of masking; required vaccinations; and proper social distancing.

Please review these vaccination requirement details:

• Vaccination – All US employees must receive all required vaccine doses no later than November 30, 2021.
  • Several vaccines require two doses—the recommended interval between doses is 21 days for Pfizer-BioNTech and 28 days for Moderna. J&J’s vaccine is a single dose. We ask our currently unvaccinated employees to keep these timelines in mind in order to meet the November 30 deadline.
  • Boosters are not required by this policy at this time. Booster requirements will be communicated if/when applicable.
• Religious or medical (ADA) exemption – If you are requesting a religious or medical (ADA) exemption, you should contact your Human Resources Business Partner or Site HR Manager by October 15. Please specify if you are requesting a religious or medical (ADA) exemption.
  • An HR Business Partner or Site HR Manager will call you to answer questions, discuss the process, and any documentation needed from you and/or your healthcare provider (in the case of ADA-related requests).
  • HR and other appropriate internal parties will determine if an exemption will be granted as a reasonable accommodation, or if an exemption would cause an undue hardship to Merit given the nature of your position.
  • If an exemption is granted, you will be required to submit to a weekly COVID-19 test until further notice. An HR Business Partner or Site HR Manager will provide testing details to those with approved exemptions.
• Proof of vaccination – Each employee is required to provide proof of full vaccination.
  • You must upload a photo of your “official” CDC Vaccination Record Card or official medical record to this secure website: https://apps.merit.com/EmployeeVaccineInfo/
  • Accepted photo files are .jpg and .tiff files only.
  • You must be connected to VPN to access the link
  • Example of Employee Vaccination info:
    •  
  • Do not send anyone in the company a copy of your vaccination card or record. Do not ask if someone is vaccinated.
  • Your information will be stored in a secure location, separate from your personnel file, and will be shared only with authorized individuals on a need-to-know basis.
  • By submitting your vaccination information, you agree that, to the best of your knowledge, the information provided is accurate and that the vaccination record you upload is genuine. Purposely providing false information or a counterfeit vaccination record will result in immediate disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
  • Employees are solely responsible for uploading photos of their vaccination cards.
  • Human Resources will identify instances where there is no proof of vaccination.
• Continued Employment – Those who are not granted an exemption by the company for a legitimate medical (ADA) or religious reason must receive all required vaccine doses by November 30, 2021, for continued employment with Merit Medical.
• Complete Policy – To view the complete policy go to the COVID-19 Response Page on Merit Metro or ask your manager for copy.
• Timing –
  • October 15: Religious or medical (ADA) exemption requests should be submitted to Merit Human Resources
  • November 1: Proof of vaccination deadline (for employees who are currently fully vaccinated)
  • November 1: Proof of first dose deadline (for employees who are currently unvaccinated)
  • November 1: Weekly testing begins for employees who have approved exemptions from Merit Human Resources
  • November 30: Proof of all required vaccine doses deadline

Attached to this message are some frequently asked questions, a Spanish version of this communication, as well as instructions for uploading proof of vaccinations. This information can also be found on Merit Metro.

We appreciate your cooperation and are here to help at any step in the process or for any questions you may have. Please reach out to your HR Business Partner or Site HR Manager with any policy questions or to Dr. Priest with any health-related questions.

Warm regards,
Mike

Mike’s Memo Regarding Vaccine Requirement – Spanish

Frequently Asked Questions – English

Frequently Asked Questions – Spanish

Uploading Proof of Vaccination Status – English

Uploading Proof of Vaccination Status – Spanish

DATE: October 7, 2021

FROM: Fred Lampropoulos, CEO

SUBJECT: COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement

To: ALL US EMPLOYEES
SUBJECT: COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement
Over the past year and a half, we have battled against the pandemic – from wearing masks, to manufacturing testing swabs, to providing COVID-19 testing, and access to vaccines.

The pandemic continues to change, and the future is unknown. Our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Nicole Priest, says, “We now have an FDA authorized vaccine, and clear evidence that vaccines dramatically lower the risk of getting COVID and reduce the likelihood of hospitalization.”

Merit’s leadership team and I have thoughtfully weighed many factors and have come to a decision. To work at Merit, all US employees will be required to receive a full COVID-19 vaccination. This requirement will mitigate the significant risk posed by COVID-19 to Merit employees and make Merit a safer place to work for everyone.

Vaccine Requirement Overview:
All U.S. employees are required to receive all required doses of the COVID-19 vaccination unless an exemption for a medical (ADA) reason or a sincerely held religious belief is approved.

Employees who are already vaccinated must show proof of vaccination by November 1.

Employees who are not yet vaccinated must show proof of first dose of vaccination by
November 1 and the second dose by November 30.

Employees who regularly work from home are also subject to the COVID-19 vaccination requirement. Merit expects all employees to be available to physically enter Merit’s facilities to meet the needs of the business or return to work in the office as required.

All new hires in the U.S. are required to have at least the first dose of vaccination at the time of hire and a second dose within 30 days of hire, effective November 30.

Boosters are not applicable to this vaccine policy. Requirements on boosters will be provided and communicated as, and when, applicable.

This policy is already in effect for customer-facing teams. Their deadline dates are earlier and have already been communicated.

Reasonable Accommodations:

Employees should speak with their healthcare provider about the risks associated with the vaccine and their own personal health history to determine if the vaccine is safe based on their health history. Employees may request an exemption from this policy as a reasonable accommodation due to a medical reason (ADA), or sincerely held religious belief.

Exemption requests must be made through your HR Business Partner, or Site HR Manager. We ask that you submit the exemption request by October 15.

Any person with an approved exemption will be required to test weekly for COVID-19. Those with a positive result will need to isolate and remain out of the workplace for ten days or more per CDC guidance. Testing begins November 1.

More details are forthcoming from Mike Voigt, Chief Human Resource Officer.

Requiring vaccination is the right decision for Merit. We are a healthcare company with critical products. Our customers require it and many of us can’t do our jobs without vaccination. But even more importantly, protecting our families, our coworkers, and our communities is fundamental to our core values and to our success.

Thank you,
Fred

Fred to Merit US Colleagues – Spanish

DATE: April 16, 2020

FROM: Chris Durham, COVID-19 Response Coordinator

SUBJECT: Global Directive – Mask Use Masks and Cloth Face Coverings

Hello COVID-19 Coordinators and Site Leadership,

At Fred’s direction, we have authored the attached Global Directive regarding the use of masks while on Merit property.  We recognize there are different recommendations and practices in different regions as well as a shortage of masks.  It is the expectation that Merit leadership makes every reasonable effort to comply with this directive.  We are in the process of procuring a supply of both disposable and reusable masks and will be distributing them to various directives sites as required.  Please review the attached document.  We will review this directive weekly along with other COVID-19 related directives and documentation and will update as needed.  Feel free to send me suggestions or feedback.

Using any and all communication means appropriate for your facility, please ensure that all employees are aware of this policy.  The document is available on the SharePoint via this link:

https://meritmedical.sharepoint.com/:u:/r/sites/EnterpriseRiskandOpportunityManagement/SitePages/COVID-19%20-%20Documents.aspx?csf=1&e=LM9mf0

This and other directives, will be updated on the sharepoint as necessary.  As a reminder, please ensure that the directive sent out earlier this week regarding our response to a reported case is also communicated thoroughly throughout the facility for which you are the COVID-19 coordinator or leader.  The list of COVID-19 coordinators that I have been given is below.  Please let me know if changes or corrections to the list are needed.

​​​​​​​Best regards,

Chris Durham

DATE: April, 2020

FROM: Nicole Priest, Chief Wellness Officer

SUBJECT: Merit Medical Global Update

Dear Utah Merit Staff,

I learned over the Easter Weekend of 2 (two) positive COVID cases here at Merit in Utah. Both individuals work in production on the main campus. This brings the total of cases in Utah at Merit to 5 (five).

Both newly positive employees have mild cases of the virus and are recovering at home without complications. I have been in contact with the Utah Health Department. Employees who have had close contact with these individuals have been notified.

Please remember if you are sick with fever, chills, sore throat, cough, body aches or congestion that we encourage you to call the Merit Care Clinic and stay home.

We are continuing to keep our campus as safe as possible by practicing social distancing, encouraging frequent hand washing, performing extra cleaning of frequently touched surfaces, supporting people to eat lunch alone in their cars and wearing masks while at work. We also continue to check every employee for elevated temperatures when they arrive at work. Our goal is to do what we can to protect us all from infections.

I appreciate all of your hard work and dedication to produce high quality medical devices. Our patients need us. We will get through this together.

​​​​​​​Be well,

Nicole Priest

En Español:

Estimado personal de mérit Utah,

Durante el fin de semana de Pascua aprendí de 2 (dos) casos positivos de COVID aquí en Merit. Ambas personas trabajan en producción en el campus principal. Esto lleva el total de casos en Utah en Merit a 5 (cinco).

Ambos empleados recientemente positivos tienen casos leves del virus y se están recuperando en casa sin complicaciones. He estado en contacto con el Departamento de Salud de Utah. Los empleados que han tenido contacto cercano con estas personas han sido notificados.

Recuerde que, si tiene fiebre, escalofríos, dolor de garganta, tos, dolor de cuerpo o congestión, le recomendamos que llame a la Clínica Merit Care y se quede en casa.

Continuamos manteniendo nuestro campus lo más seguro posible practicando el distanciamiento social, alentando el lavado frecuente de manos, realizando una limpieza adicional de las superficies frecuentemente tocadas, ayudando a las personas a almorzar solas en sus autos y usando máscaras mientras trabajan. También continuamos verificando a cada empleado por temperaturas elevadas cuando llegan al trabajo. Nuestro objetivo es hacer lo que podamos para protegernos a todos de las infecciones.

Agradezco todo su arduo trabajo y dedicación para producir dispositivos médicos de alta calidad. Nuestros pacientes nos necesitan. Vamos a superar esto juntos.

​​​​​​​Que estén bien,

Nicole Priest

DATE: April 10, 2020

FROM: Fred Lampropoulos, Chairman and CEO

SUBJECT: Employee Update

To Our Employees,

We are all aware of the difficult times we are facing individually and as a company.  The uncertainty of future events is a source of stress for us all.  In order to ensure the future of our company and our ability to maintain financial stability, I have chosen a path for the next 90 days which includes a reduction in pay at various earning levels.  This will help preserve many jobs as we share this burden together.  We will evaluate our future course of action in the months ahead.

I am sure that we will get through this historic event together and will emerge a stronger, leaner and more efficient company.

My best wishes for a healthy Easter holiday.

​​​​​​​Fred

Notice of Reduced Wages Due to COVID-19 – Download Here

Hello Merit Staff,

This is Dr. Nicole Priest. I want to let everyone know that I have learned in the last 12 hours that we have had 3 employees test positive for COVID 19 in Utah.  All are well at this point and recovering at home.

With the help of the Health Department, we have been contacting individuals who could have be exposed to the virus via these employees.

It is a good time to remind you all that if you or a family member is sick, please do not come to work. Symptoms of this virus include fever, chills, cough, body aches, sore throat and congestion.

Please call the Merit Care Clinic if you are unwell and they can help guide us as to when you will be able to return to work. Please work with your HR partner, manager or supervisor if you are sick. Our concern is for your welfare, your benefits and the well being of your family.

We are an essential business making critical care products for patients all over the world. Please help us keep our building and employees safe so we can continue our mission.

Be well and thank you for your time.

Nicole Priest

En Español:

Hola personal de Merit,

Esta es la Dra. Nicole Priest. Quiero que todos sepan que he aprendido en las últimas 12 horas que hemos tenido 3 empleados con un resultado positivo para COVID 19 en Utah. Todos están bien en este punto y recuperándose en casa.

Con la ayuda del Departamento de Salud, nos hemos puesto en contacto con personas que podrían haber estado expuestas al virus a través de estos empleados.

Es un buen momento para recordarles a todos que si usted o un miembro de su familia están enfermos, no vengan a trabajar. Los síntomas de este virus incluyen fiebre, escalofríos, tos, dolor de cuerpo, dolor de garganta y congestión.

Llame a Merit Care Clinic si no se encuentra bien y ellos pueden ayudarnos a guiarnos sobre cuándo podrá volver a trabajar. Trabaje con su socio de recursos humanos, gerente o supervisor si está enfermo. Nuestra preocupación es por su bienestar, sus beneficios y el bienestar de su familia.

Somos una empresa esencial que fabrica productos de cuidados críticos para pacientes de todo el mundo. Ayúdenos a mantener seguros nuestros edificios y empleados para que podamos continuar nuestra misión.

Que estés bien y gracias por su tiempo.

Nicole Priest

DATE: March 31, 2020

FROM: Fred Lampropoulos, Chairman and CEO

SUBJECT: Update to Staff on State of Utah Directive

As you know, Governor Herbert issued a statewide directive today as part of the Urgent Phase of the Utah Leads Together plan. The Directive instructs Utahns to “Stay Safe- Stay Home” and to comply with the following until April 13, 2020. We hope the following outline will help explain the Governor’s directive.

Stay at home

• Work from home if at all possible
• Keep communications electronic and telephonic
• Self-quarantine if you have been outside of the state
• Don’t visit friends or families outside of urgent needs
• Don’t attend gatherings with individuals outside of your family
• Wash hands
• Sanitize frequently
• Practice good cough and sneeze hygiene
• Sanitize high touch surfaces frequently
• Help others
• Don’t endanger high-risk individuals
• Don’t visit hospitals
• No recreational travel
• Leave home only for emergencies or when needed for supplies or to help your neighbors

Children

• No playdates
• Do not visit public playgrounds
• No school

Food

• No dining out except for curbside and take-out orders

Outdoors and Recreation

• Maintain six feet of distance from others
• No congregating at trailheads or other areas
• No amusement parks
• No swimming pools
• No gyms

Travel

• Keep travel limited to work, emergency, or essential needs
• Leisurely drives are fine

Shopping

• Grocery stores and other shopping needs are fine, but limit them

Airports

• Only ticketed passengers may leave vehicles

Public Parks and Outdoor Areas

• Parks are fine when practicing social distancing, but no playgrounds or congregating
• State parks are only available to the residents of the county in which the park is located
• Federal Parks are in the process of being closed

If you have any questions please contact Erin Barry by email at [email protected].

Best,

Fred

DATE: March 22, 2020

FROM: Nico Walker, Executive VP Global Intelligence & Security

SUBJECT: COVID Screening

COVID SCREENING PROCEDURE:

Beginning 3/23/2020 at 0300, we will begin screening persons entering campus for fever. This will be done by trained Merit Medical employees using approved thermometers. Screening is mandatory for all employees, contractors, and visitors. Screening is important, as it may help keep infected persons from our campus. Every person has a duty to follow this screening procedure and to make sure they are screened at the beginning of their shifts. Failure to be screened or attempts to circumvent the screening process may result in disciplinary action. This process may change as needed, and every employee will need to be patient with screening staff.

Screening will take place in four locations on campus, depending on the time of day. While waiting for screening, employees should keep a 6-foot distance between them. To assist with this, marks will be placed on the ground at 6-foot intervals. Persons waiting to be screened should stay to the right to allow for normal business traffic to pass by on the left. Avoid congregating at entry points or in vestibules/foyers.

Every employee will need to have their Merit ID card out and ready. Afterward, screening badges belonging to screened employees will be marked. If an employee travels between buildings, they can show their badge indicating they have already been screened, and they will not be screened again. If an employee forgets their badge and needs a temporary badge for the day, they should be screened prior to coming to security with the sticker received during screening. The sticker will be placed on the temporary badge the employee will be using for the day.

9PM-3AM Monday-Friday and Weekends:  The single access point for anyone other than after-hours deliveries/pickups will be WEST GATE. Access to the North and the South gate will be restricted. Screening will occur at West gate as people enter. A member of the security team and a screener will be at the gate during these times. Security will verify that the persons entering are employees and the screener will check temperatures. For DROP OFF/PICK UP, only the EMPLOYEE needs to be screened. The driver should be instructed to remain in their vehicle and use the loading zone.

Any after-hours emergency contractors should be screened, and a COVID-19 form filled out for them.

For after-hours shipping/receiving, security should fill out the COVID-19 form by intercom.  After the form is completed, drivers should be instructed to proceed to shipping/receiving and remain in the cab of their trucks. A member of shipping/receiving will assist them.

The after-hours shipping trailer drop off/pick up can occur as normal; however, advise the driver not to enter or attempt to enter any buildings.

Main Building: Until further notice, the only entrance into the MAIN building will be the West entrance near security. Testing will be conducted 3AM-9PM Monday-Friday in the hallway near the double doors to recruiting. 9PM-3AM persons can enter only if they have been screened. If screening is needed, report to the West gate.

Bean Building: Until further notice, the only entrance into the Bean Building will be at the second floor entrance near the skybridge. Testing will be conducted 3AM-9PM Monday-Friday in the entry. 9PM-3AM persons can enter only if they have been screened. If screening is needed, report to the West gate.

MALT Building: Until further notice, the only entrance into MALT will be through the main MALT lobby entrance. Testing will be conducted 5AM-9PM Monday-Friday by the entry. 9PM-3AM persons can enter only if they have been screened. If screening is needed, report to the West gate.  3AM-5AM access to malt will be through the Bean Building, using the 2^nd skybridge screening location.

Building 87: Until further notice, the only entrance into Building 87 is the main lobby entry near the front of the building. Testing will be conducted 6AM-10PM inside the foyer. 9PM-3AM persons can enter if they have been screened at the gate. 3AM-6AM persons needing to be screened will need to go to another screening point. Persons who have been screened can call the phone number posted on the door to be allowed in.

Tech Building: Until further notice, the only entrance into the South Tech Building Campus is the main gate off Redwood Road. Screening will be conducted 5AM-5PM at the gate. All employees should have their Merit ID out and ready prior to arriving at the gate. Contractors who have been issued a vendor badge should be screened and their ID cards marked indicating they have been screened. Contactors who do not have a badge should be screened and their temperature marked on the COVID-19 sheets we are already using. If they leave and return in the same day, they do not need to be re-screened. There will be no access to the South Tech Building campus after 5PM. Employees can remain on site after 5PM, but re-entry will not be allowed.

West Jordan: Until further notice, the only entrance to the West Jordan building is the employee entrance at the rear of the building. Screening will be conducted 4AM-6PM.  6PM-4AM. There will be no access to the West Jordan building after 6PM. Employees can remain on site after 6PM, but re-entry will not be allowed.

DATE: March 16, 2020

FROM: Fred Lampropoulos, Chairman and CEO

SUBJECT: Updated COVID-19 Guidance

Dear Merit Team,

I am writing with updated guidance as we all work to plan for and respond to changing dynamics in the ongoing novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Going forward, https://metro.merit.com will be our main forum of communication. It contains the latest information and will be updated regularly.

General guidance will come from our headquarters in South Jordan, and the following people will be managing situations in their respective regions:

• Ron Frost, Utah
• Mark Butler, Ireland
• Tom Graat, Maastricht
• Didier Jeanmougin, France
• Camiel Peerlings, Venlo
• Scott de Oliveira, South Africa
• Clay Creamer, Pearland/Richmond
• Carlos Santos, Mexico

Travel Guidance – Updated
Effective immediately, Merit Medical is restricting all business travel until April 30, 2020. If you had business-related travel plans, whether in the United States or internationally, between now and April 30, you should cancel your trip. Any request for an exception to this restriction – for business-critical travel – must be reviewed and approved by your supervisor, Dr. Nicole Priest, and me.

We also encourage you to avoid personal travel. If you do travel, you may be restricted from returning to work, depending on your health and the risk of COVID-19 in the area you visited. We recognize this will cause inconvenience for some, but this decision has been taken to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our workplaces. Most airlines are now waiving rebooking fees, and previously booked airline tickets can be reused for future travel.

If you have traveled domestically or internationally to countries with a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Level 3 travel health notice in the last two weeks, we ask that you report the trip to Dr. Priest.

Telecommuting Opportunities Protocol
To limit exposure and the spread of the virus, we will begin to implement telecommuting for some employees. Our IT staff are developing a guide for establishing work-at-home agreements and protocols where feasible.

Meetings, Conferences, and Gatherings
Be thoughtful about the need for gatherings and meetings in your departments and consider telephone or videoconferencing to be a useful option.

Community Health and Safety
All of these changes are being made in an attempt to stop and slow the spread of COVID-19, while still producing and providing crucial medical devices to our customers and patients. President Trump has declared a national state of emergency in response to the coronavirus. As in other infectious disease outbreaks, protective measures, such as the ones summarized above, have been shown to reduce the burden on hospitals and healthcare infrastructure when infected people seek treatment, allowing providers to care for them as well as patients with other conditions. Your continued patience and flexibility are critical to maintaining those healthcare operations.

Sincerely,

Fred Lampropoulos
Chairman and CEO

DATE: March 16, 2020

FROM: Justin Lampropoulos, Executive Vice President, Commercial US, the Middle East, and Africa

SUBJECT: Merit Medical and COVID-19

Dear Partner in Healthcare,

Since 1987, Merit Medical has developed and delivered products that support healthcare providers and save or improve patients’ lives. We’ve continuously risen to global healthcare challenges. Our mission has always been, and will always be, to understand, innovate, and deliver. This moment in history is no different, and Merit will unwaveringly understand your needs, innovate solutions, and deliver products and therapies to treat the patients who need them.

We want to assure you that we are taking every precaution possible to continue to provide seamless and uninterrupted support during this time. Merit has formed a COVID-19 Operations Task Force that meets daily to stay on top of local, national, and international news and changes to direct the organization appropriately.

Merit Representatives Visiting Hospitals & Patient Care Facilities

We are paying close attention to the limitations placed on vendor visits and are prepared to continue to support you per your guidelines, whether in person or virtually. Please continue to keep us updated on your protocols and restrictions.

• For essential vendor visits, our sales and clinical teams are following appropriate infection prevention protocols and are in constant communication with facilities to ensure we strictly follow your protocols and policies.
• All Merit field representatives will have FaceTime, WhatsApp, Google Duo, and Microsoft Teams so that we can assist you by video with product sales, in-services, training, and/or case support.
• Training videos are already available for many of our products and can be found on Merit.com or upon request from your sales representative. If a video does not currently exist, we will create one for you upon request.

Customer Service

• Merit’s Customer Service team will maintain longer-than-industry-average hours of operation from 6am to 6pm MST Monday through Saturday and is committed to supporting your needs. They may be reached at 801-208-4300 or via email at [email protected].

Protecting our Manufacturing Operations and Supply Chain

We utilize a highly vertical supply chain and do not produce anything in China, which many of you have asked about over the last few weeks. This extends from raw materials and pressure sensors to the innovative products and therapies you depend on. Additionally, we have a diverse distribution structure and have extensively prepared for a variety of scenarios.

Presently, COVID-19 has not caused any disruptions to our supply, operations, or delivery of products. We are taking every precaution to ensure that manufacturing operations and delivery remain uninterrupted, and that ample product supply is available to continue to meet patient needs.

You can be assured that Merit is doing everything in its power to ensure that patients and our healthcare customers are supported in every way possible. We will continue to provide you with ongoing updates as the situation changes.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact your local sales representative, Customer Support team, or me.

Our final message to you is. You are not alone. We are here, willing, ready, and able.

Sincerely yours,

Justin Lampropoulos

Executive Vice President, Commercial, US, Europe, the Middle East and Africa

DATE: March 12, 2020

FROM: Dr. Nicole Priest, Chief Wellness Officer

SUBJECT: Medical Clinic

Dear Merit Employees,

At Merit, we have been diligent about implementing safety measures to insure the health of our staff while continuing to produce high-quality medical devices.

During this time, I want to remind everyone that it is of the utmost importance that we remember to protect ourselves from infection by practicing good hand washing every time we use the bathroom, cough, or sneeze. Please remember that  a minimum of 20 seconds of  hand washing with soap and water will kill the coronavirus. If you do not have soap and water, then using hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol or greater will work.

Currently, using a mask is not recommended unless you are going to get tested for the coronavirus, or you are caring for someone with COVID-19. Culturally, this may be different in other parts of the world, and please follow the advice of your local health providers.

Please be mindful of your health. If you are ill with a fever, cough, or upper respiratory symptoms, please do not come to work. If you live in Utah and worry about coronavirus exposures, we ask that you call the clinic for direction on where you can be evaluated. The Utah Department of Health can also help to direct you where to go for care and treatment. It may be advised that you stay home for 48 hours before going to see a doctor or other provider. If you live elsewhere, please use your local health department as a resource to guide you and your families about where to receive care. Local clinics and doctors offices are all asking that you call ahead of time before coming into the office with potential infections.

If you do have an appointment at the Merit Care Clinic and are being seen for a cough or fever, you must wear a mask upon arrival to the office. We have masks at both entrances to the clinic. We have a duty to protect our clinic staff, so they can continue to care for all of us.

If you are not being seen at the clinic, please do not take the clinic masks or supplies for your own personal use.

We will get through this challenging time together.

​​​​​​​Thank you,

Nicole Priest

DATE: March 12, 2020

FROM: Fred Lampropoulos, CEO

SUBJECT: Dental Clinic

Out of an abundance of caution, we will close our Dental Clinic in South Jordan after treatments on Friday, March 13. The clinic will remain closed for a period of two weeks while we assess the effects of the  COVID-19 virus. We will keep you informed as we analyze the overall impact of this global pandemic. Thank you for your understanding.

​​​​​​​Fred Lampropoulos

DATE: March 12, 2020

FROM: Jason Treft, Chief Technology Officer

SUBJECT: Phishing and Covid-19

Merit Employees,

Any time there is a major event that captures public interest, it creates an opportunity for attackers to use it to manipulate others. Some frequent examples are too-good-to-be-true offers, tax filing deadlines, holidays, school-related dates and events, fiscal month/quarter/year-end dates.

With coronavirus/Covid-19 events unfolding, there are many bad actors leveraging themselves as bait to get you to click on malicious links in emails or on websites. They will often also use phone calls, faxes, or physical letters sent in the mail.

Multiple Websites and Mobile Apps with “virus outbreak maps” or trackers have been identified as malicious and have been stealing passwords and other information from those who visit the sites or use the apps.

A disturbing example of a phishing/social engineering email is claiming there is an incident or virus exposure at a local school or neighborhood and to click on a link (or open an attached file) to see if you or a family member was exposed.

Please be vigilant and only trust known-good resources for information, and if you receive notices claiming to be from a local school or business, always question their validity.  Instead of clicking on links, find the legitimate website online; and if necessary, contact them through their website to assure you’re dealing with the correct individuals.

Thank you for being part of our “human firewall” and our last line of defense against those who mean to do us harm. We are continually working to minimize the threats that get through to you but will never achieve 100% and must rely on your judgement as our last layer of armor.

​​​​​​​Take care and be safe.

DATE: March 12, 2020

FROM: Nico Walker, Executive VP Global Intelligence & Security

SUBJECT: Visitor, Vendor, and Contractor Restrictions

Dear Merit Employees:

In addition to the visitor, vendor, and contractor restrictions put in place last night, all employees must provide additional assistance in screening visitors to help security and reception avoid unneeded exposure to individuals who would not pass the screening requirements.

As I said in my previous email, visitors should only be invited to a Merit campus for necessary business purposes.  If you can meet with visitors electronically instead, please do so.

Before a visitor visits a Merit campus, please ask him or her the following questions:

1. Have you traveled internationally in the last 14 days?
2. In the last 14 days, or do you currently have, any of the following symptoms: fever, cough, or shortness of breath?
3. In the last 14 days, have you been in direct contact with anyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19, is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, is currently being tested for COVID-19, or is at high risk for having contracted COVID-19?

If the answer to any of the above questions is “yes,” the visitor may not visit a Merit campus until they can answer no to all of the above questions.

Do not deviate or alter the above questions, as they have been carefully selected.  Do not ask for additional explanation beyond a “yes” or “no” answer.

Asking these questions prior to the visitors arrival to Merit facilities will minimize our risks and exposure.

Thank you for your cooperation,

Nico

DATE: March 12, 2020

FROM: Fred Lampropoulos, CEO

SUBJECT: COVID-19 Letter

Dear Merit Team,

The health of our employees and their families is of utmost importance to us at Merit Medical.
As you know, we have been monitoring the COVID-19 virus carefully and have taken steps to ensure the health and safety of the Merit team. We have implemented restrictions in our Asian business, curbed travel to affected global markets, and canceled attendance to the Society of Interventional Radiology conference, multiple ThinkRadial courses in North American and Europe, and other events in which Merit was scheduled to participate. Merit is taking cautionary steps before required and demonstrating a market leading position to help ensure the safety and health of our global team members.

Merit Medical is also striving to service institutions that require our products to treat patients. After consulting with a variety of industry and health care professionals, the following directive is in place as of March 13, 2020 at 1800H:
• All travel via airplane, bus, train or other mass transit options are restricted;
• All non-essential hospital visits to healthcare institutions are restricted;
• All essential case coverage support must go through hospital screening protocols. If protocols do not exist, the case coverage support may not take place;
• All travel to congresses, meetings, or other gatherings are hereby cancelled; and
• All internal training meetings – regional, national or otherwise – are hereby cancelled until further notice.

Under no circumstance may any team member deviate from the above protocols without my written approval. Such approval will be considered with our healthcare experts, executive team, and others needed to make a responsible decision. As with any dynamic situation, we will continue to monitor it carefully and consult with experts to stay on the forefront of relevant developments. Communication on this situation is essential. I encourage anyone with further questions to contact Dr. Nicole Priest, Nico Walker, or myself. We will make ourselves available to ensure we are hearing your comments and concerns.

Thank you for your attention and strict adherence to these directives which will help us protect the welfare of all stakeholders in our great organization. We know our Merit team is strong and resilient, and we thank you for all you do.

Sincerely,
Fred P. Lampropoulos
Chairman and CEO

DATE: March 11, 2020

FROM: Nico Walker, Executive VP Global Intelligence & Security

SUBJECT: Merit Global Travel Restrictions; Visitor, Vendor, and Contractor Restrictions

To all Merit Medical Employees,

Reference is made to the previous emails dated 1/23/2020, 1/27/2020, 2/4/2020, and 2/24/2020 regarding Merit Business Travel.

Until further notice, all international business travel is suspended. This includes all travel between countries, to include travel between European Union countries. Any exceptions to this suspension must be approved by President and Chairman of the Board Fred Lampropoulos.

It is highly advised that personal travel be carefully reviewed. Any employee who travels internationally will be restricted upon their return based on their country’s existing guidelines and Merit’s Travel Policy. This includes the restriction to return to work. Questions regarding personal travel can be directed to your local Human Resources department or Merit Global Security.

Employees living in Malaysia are allowed to travel back and forth into Singapore. There are no restrictions of movement between Singapore and Malaysia. These two countries are cooperating in their efforts to combat COVID-19 and isolation of their citizens.

Your cooperation with this travel suspension is greatly appreciated.

VISITOR, VENDOR, CONTRACTOR RESTRICTIONS

Effective immediately visitors, vendors, and contractors may only enter Merit facilities for necessary business. All non-Merit employees entering the facilities must fill out the Visitor Travel and Health Declaration Form (see attached).

If any visitor, vendor, or contractor has traveled internationally within the past 14 days, shown symptoms of illness, or has been in contact with someone who has been ill, they will not be allowed into Merit facilities.

This visitor restriction is for all Merit facilities globally, no exclusions. All questions should be directed through your chain of command locally, then to corporate senior executives.

The health and security of Merit employees is our priority.

Best regards,

​​​​​​​Nico Walker

DATE: March 5, 2020

FROM: Dr. Nicole Priest, Chief Wellness Officer

SUBJECT: Protecting ourselves from infections

We are all well aware that the new coronavirus started in China a few months ago and has now started to affect other areas of the world. Coronavirus is a family of viruses that cause the common cold and also other flu-like illness. COVID-19 is the name of the disease caused by the new coronavirus. The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the flu with fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. It spreads like other viruses with direct person-to-person contact and likely by touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching our faces.

We are still at very low risk here in the United States, but we are starting to see more cases. At Merit, we are monitoring the situation closely and are using the resources of the CDC and the local  Departments of Health to help guide us.

I would like to remind everyone that during seasonal flu and other respiratory outbreaks, our very best defense against germs is proper cleaning and education.

Please wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if you do not have access to soap and water.

Please cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, throw away used tissues when you are done, use your sleeve or elbow if you do not have a tissue handy, and then wash or sanitize your hands. Try to avoid touching your face and eyes until after you have washed your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

We encourage all employees to stay home if they are sick and to consult their healthcare provider.

Please take measures to protect yourself, work colleagues, and your families from the spread of germs.

At Merit, our number one concern is the health and well-being of our employees, our customers, and our partners all over the globe.

We will keep you informed as the situation evolves.

Additional resources:

Intermountain Health Answers Nurse Line #: 844-501-6660

Cigna Nurse Line #: 800-244-6224

Merit Care Clinic for Utah employees #: 801-316-3900

DATE: February 24, 2020

FROM: Nico Walker, Executive VP, Global Intelligence & Security

SUBJECT: Merit Medical Travel Restrictions

To all Merit Medical Employees,

Reference is made to the previous emails dated 1/23/2020, 1/27/2020, and 2/4/2020 on this same subject.

Suspension of travel has been expanded to include travel into and out of Italy. Any exceptions to this suspension must be approved by President and Chairman of the Board Fred Lampropoulos.

Your cooperation with this travel suspension is greatly appreciated.

Best regards,

​​​​​​​Nico Walker

DATE: February 4, 2020

FROM: Nico Walker, Executive VP, Global Intelligence & Security

SUBJECT: Merit Medical Travel Restrictions

To all Merit Medical Employees,

Reference is made to the previous emails dated 1/23/2020 and 1/27/2020.

​​​​​​​Suspension of travel has been expanded to all of Asia, Asia Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Travel to and from each of the countries must be approved by President and Chairman of the Board Fred Lampropoulos. No exceptions.

Your cooperation with this travel suspension is greatly appreciated.

Best regards,

Nico Walker

DATE: January 27, 2020

FROM: Nico Walker, Executive VP, Global Intelligence & Security

SUBJECT: Merit Medical Travel Restrictions

To all Merit Medical Employees,

Reference is made to a previous email dated 1/23/2020, subject Travel to China.

Based on the continued spread of 2019-nCoV (coronavirus), all business travel to and from Japan and Australia is now included in the official travel suspension.

The list of countries where Merit Medical travelers should not be traveling now includes: China (to include Hong Kong), Singapore, Japan, and Australia.

Again, thank you for your cooperation with this temporary travel suspension.

​​​​​​​Nico Walker

DATE: January 23, 2020

FROM: Nico Walker, Executive VP, Global Intelligence & Security

SUBJECT: Merit Medical Travel Restrictions

To all Merit Employees,

At the request of Merit Medical Systems, Inc. Board of Directors, all travel to China is temporarily suspended. This travel suspension is directly related to the recent 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak.

As of 22 January 2020, Chinese health officials have publicly acknowledged 440 confirmed cases of the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), with 17 known fatalities. Most cases have been reported in Hubei province, although at least one case in Macao and another in Hong Kong have also been confirmed. Travel to and from Wuhan has been suspended by the Chinese govenment in an effort to mitigate the risk of human-to-human transmission. The restriction followed an earlier confirmation that the virus was capable of spreading through the respiratory system.

China’s regional neighbors are setting up screenings and other precautionary measures, as authorities have publicly acknowledged a limited number of confirmed cases outside of China. At present, four confirmed cases of the 2019-nCoV have been reported in Thailand as well as one confirmed case each in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and the U.S. Additionally, health officials in Australia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam are monitoring travelers from Wuhan who have been exhibiting symptoms of the virus; however, no confirmed cases of the disease exist in these countries. North Korea has reportedly banned all foreign tourists from entering the country until further notice. Authorities have implemented health screening procedures at transportation hubs, including airports, as a precaution.

THE VIRUS

The virus, also known as 2019-nCoV, is a new strain of coronavirus not previously identified in humans and seems to have originated from infected animals at a seafood market in Wuhan. Coronaviruses are a large group of viruses common among animals. In rare cases, they are zoonotic, meaning they can transmit from animals to humans (SARS and MERS are examples of zoonotic coronaviruses). This virus causes respiratory symptoms, such as pneumonia, runny nose, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, headaches, and fevers, which can last for a couple of days, and doesn’t respond to antibiotic treatment.

The virus’s symptoms are similar to those of SARS. However, no case of SARS has appeared since the epidemic ended in 2004. This strain does not seem as deadly as other coronaviruses have been; for comparison, SARS killed 10% of those infected. Meanwhile, those individuals who have died from this outbreak had preexisting conditions. Healthcare workers were among those infected. There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for the virus.

If you have any questions related to this travel suspension, please contact Executive VP Nico Walker, Global Security.

​​​​​​​Thank you all for your immediate attention to this matter.