DETROIT — The auto industry is starting to come back after a months-long shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Some vehicle assembly plants started Monday.
The return to manufacturing will be a gradual process, The New York Times reported.
Fiat Chrysler’s truck plant was among the manufacturing sites that opened, Reuters reported.
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As workers lined up before the 5 a.m. shift, they were greeted by signs that read, “Let’s restart.”
Some workers said they’re nervous going back to work, but said the companies took all the precautions they could.
Worker’s will have their temperatures taken as they enter the plants. Also, face masks and shields will be issued and the factories will be deep cleaned, according to Reuters.
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Companies also plan to have shorter shifts so cleaning can happen between waves and employees will be told to stagger their arrival and departure, the Times reported.
Many of the steps to ensure a healthy work environment have already been implemented in China and in Europe and were used in the plants that have been making medical supplies, The Detroit News reported.
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Fiat Chrysler will be joined by Ford and General Motors this week. Tesla, Honda and Toyota started the assembly lines last week, and Hyundai started an Alabama plant May 4, the Times reported.
