A special task force against the coronavirus pandemic is underway courtesy of three of the world's biggest automakers: Ford, General Motors, and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. The companies have formed a special partnership with the United Auto Workers Union for the safety and protection of its workers on Sunday's announcement.
While Ford hasn't made an independent statement about the partnership as of writing, a representative for GM said that overtime hours for its workers had been suspended and there will be adjustments on its production schedules. FCA, meanwhile, did not mention any changes to its production timeline and simply said it will make further announcements "as they become available."
"We are all coming together to help keep our workforces safe and healthy," said all three companies in a combined statement. "This is a fluid and unprecedented situation, and the task force will move quickly to build on the wide-ranging preventive measures we have put in place." The companies all agree to promote social distancing in their respective workplaces.
GM's production adjustments should allow for more time in disinfecting and sanitizing its offices and factories, and while overtime hours have been cut, production shouldn't be greatly affected. The company already has a medical staff on standby in case suspected cases arise, and it will also offer treatment plans and lab testing for COVID-19. There will be additional sanitizers and disinfecting cloths for workers as well.
Many industries have been left affected by the spread of COVID-19, including automakers. There is a major crisis across the globe, prompting many companies to change their policies for the safety of its workers and customers.
FCA has since banned both domestic and international travel for all its workers. However, the case may be considered if found "essential." The same goes true for Ford, who has restricted employee travel both local and abroad following news that two of its employees in China have contracted COVID-19. Ford's decision goes in full effect to all of its employees around the world in order to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
The ongoing pandemic has caused a heavy social disruption not only in China, where it originated but the rest of the world as well. In the United States, many stores, venues, and theme parks have stopped operating, and major sports events have all been canceled.
To mitigate the spread of the deadly virus, U.S. President Donald Trump recently declared the country in a state of national emergency.
