(WXYZ) — Ford intends to restart initial production at most of its European plants on May 4.
Manufacturing will resume in phases at Saarlouis Vehicle Assembly Operations and Cologne Assembly Operations and Engine Plant in Germany; Valencia Vehicle Assembly Operations in Spain; and Craiova Vehicle Assembly Operations and Engine Plant in Romania.
“We need to prepare for a new environment once we are past the initial peak of the Coronavirus pandemic in Europe, with the key priority in our ‘return to work’ plan being the implementation of Ford’s global standards on social distancing and strengthened health and safety protocols in the workplace. Our employees need to know that we are taking the appropriate steps to safeguard their well-being at work,” said Stuart Rowley, president, Ford of Europe.
Ford says production will start at a low level and will gradually be ramped-up over the next few months before full production is resumed.
Social distancing and employee health and safety actions will be implemented:
- Requiring anyone entering a Ford facility to use a company-provided face mask, and a face shield in select manufacturing positions and other positions where social distancing cannot be met
- All persons entering a Ford facility to have their body temperature checked on entry with scanning equipment that meets any local or national regulations and restrictions
- Completion of a daily, wellness self-assessment process to confirm employee fitness and readiness for work before entering a Ford facility
- Redesigning of work areas to ensure proper social distancing guidelines are maintained and phased return to work to reduce employee density in buildings
Additionally, the company will provide all employees with a personal "care kit" on their return to work, which include disposable face masks, reusable thermometer and other hygiene items.
Face masks will be produced for use at its facilities across Europe. Masks will be required to worn by anyone working at or visiting a Ford site.
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