FAQs on EcoSecurity Utensil (ESU) to Help Stop the Spread of the Coronavirus

UPDATE:

COVID – 19

How can ESU help under the current national lock down orders?

Are you experiencing more agitation due to confinement within cells?

 The sanitary, disposable paperboard EcoSecurity® Utensil (ESU) can help you meet CDC, ACA, BOP, state and other guidelines for reducing the spread of COVID-19, while also reducing potential for harm to self or others.

The disposable ESU can be provided as a safe easy to distribute utensil for meals eaten in cells, particularly good for at risk populations.

What can correctional facilities do to slow the spread of COVID-19 in their facilities?

Correctional staff are the most important resource necessary for maintaining infection control in a secure environment for both inmates and colleagues, and often act as the first responders within a facility. We recommend following the steps outlined by the NCCHC, the ACA, and the CDC. 

In addition to these steps, we recommend implementing the EcoSecurity Utensil (ESU) to avoid COVID-19 cross contamination risks as with non-disposable sporks, and avoid weaponizing risks posed by disposable plastic utensils.

Why are ESUs safer than disposable plastic utensils or multi-use polypropylene sporks?

ESU is the only safe and sanitary DISPOSABLE utensil for correctional facilities. Already the #1 utensil for inmates at risk for self-harm and suicide watch, the disposable paperboard EcoSecurity Utensil provides efficient infection control with COVID-19 as compared to a reusable utensil.

ESUs come packed together tightly, which provides approximately 97% less surface area for a germ to alight upon, as opposed to a big bag or box of plastic spoons, where 100% of a given utensil can be exposed. 

ESUs also prevent injury to staff and inmates caused by manipulated utensils, particularly with the elevated agitation level created by the COVID-19. ESU’s prevent self-harm and are a proven solution for at-risk populations, including swallowers, cutters and anyone on suicide watch, or placed in SHU.

Where is the ESU manufactured? There are concerns about products manufactured in and shipped from Asia, including China.

ESU are made from US-made paperboard (from US-grown forests) and manufactured and packaged in Missouri, US and sold by cases of 2500 and 5000 units.

Which correctional or juvenile facilities have already implemented the ESU?

ESU is used by thousands of jails, prisons and juvenile detention centers in the US and Canada. Click the map to see who’s implemented the ESU in your state. 

Do you offer a wrapped version of the ESU?

The current environment requires more sanitary options, so we are looking at producing a wrapped version of our ESU for the corrections and healthcare communities. We would love to hear your feedback at orders@ecosecurityutensil.com.

Where can we purchase the ESU?

ESU’s can be purchased directly through www.ecosecurityutensil.com and we can set up direct billing for your facility. Credit cards are also accepted as payment and the ESU is sold in cases of 2500 and 5000 units. Please contact us at orders@ecosecurityutensil.com with any product questions or to set up direct billing/PO for your facility.

The ESU is also sold through the following correctional distributors:

• Cooks Correctional
• US Foods