General Motors (GM) and Ford will be temporarily suspending manufacturing operations in North America through the end of this month to allow deep cleaning at its facilities and to protect its workforce amid the COVID-19 pandemic, according to United Auto Workers of America (UAW).
After Thursday evening shifts, Ford officials say they are temporarily suspending production at its manufacturing sites in North America through March 30.
Ford’s president of North America Kumar Galhotra says they are continuing to work closely with union leaders, especially the United Auto Workers, to find ways to help keep their workforce healthy and safe – even as they look at solutions for continuing to provide the vehicles customers really want and need. He adds in these unprecedented times, they are exploring unique and creative solutions to support their workforce, customers, dealers, suppliers, and communities.
According to the UAW, Ford temporarily closed the Michigan Assembly Plant (MAP) final assembly building Wednesday morning after an employee tested positive of the coronavirus and is in the process of thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the building.
Meanwhile, GM President Mary Barra says they are working with UAW and have agreed to a systematic, orderly suspension of production to aid in fighting the coronavirus. She adds they are taking extraordinary precautions around the world to keep their plant environments safe and recent developments in North America make it clear this is the right thing to do now.
Officials also say the GM suspension will last until least March 30 and production status will be reevaluated week-to-week after that date.
According to Ford officials, the move to temporarily close plants follows Sunday’s news that they are working with leaders of UAW, General Motors Co., and Fiat Chrysler to implement enhanced protections for manufacturing and warehouse employees at all three companies.
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