The U.S. Big Three automakers and the United Auto Workers union are coordinating an effort to put in place "enhanced protections" from the COVID-19/Coronavirus for manufacturing and warehouse employees at all three companies. The joint COVID-19/Coronavirus Task Force will focus on vehicle production plans, additional social distancing, break and cleaning force’s schedules, health and safety education, health screening, food service, and any other areas that have the potential to improve protections for employees.
More specifically, the three companies and the union will seek to establish enhanced visitor screening, increased cleaning and sanitizing of common areas and touch points, and implementing safety protocols for people with potential exposure, as well as those who exhibit flu-like symptoms.
“Workplace health and safety is a priority for us every day," stated UAW president Rory Gamble. "All three companies have been taking steps to keep the COVID-19/coronavirus out of their facilities and during this national emergency, we will do even more working together.”
The COVID-19/Coronavirus Task Force will be led by Gamble, GM chairman and CEO Mary Barra, Ford executive chairman Bill Ford, Ford president/CEO Jim Hackett, and FCA CEO Michael Manley.
“We are focused on doing the right thing for our people, their families, our communities and the country. All options related to protecting against exposure to the virus are on the table,” Gamble added.
Each company and the UAW will provide regular updates to workers as the task force identifies further actions.
