KERNERSVILLE, N.C. – As growing season ramps up so does the need to protect migrant farm workers. 

The North Carolina Department of Labor recommends that farm workers be aware of their role in preventing the spread of the virus. Farmers have a responsibility to educate workers, avoid exposure risk, and separate sick and exposed farm workers from each other. 

The owner of Hedgecock Strawberry Farm said he's adding protections for workers.

“Migrant workers, before they go to the field, they wash their hands," John Hedgecock said. "They spray with sanitizer and they wear gloves to pick.”

 According to the North Carolina Department of Labor, if any worker has been diagnosed with COVID-19, the grower must provide information to local health departments.