British production lines fell silent on 18 March and the vast majority of JCB’s 6,500 UK employees have been furloughed since April. The firm has now confirmed that low levels of production are resuming – with safety measures introduced to protect employees.
The Loadall division at the World HQ, Rocester, Staffordshire, JCB Earthmovers and JCB Landpower in Cheadle, Staffordshire, have resumed production along with JCB Transmissions in Wrexham and JCB Cab Systems at Uttoxeter.
JCB CEO Graeme Macdonald says: “Production has resumed at a very low level, mainly to satisfy demand for agricultural machinery. Ahead of this re-start, an exhaustive review was undertaken to enable us to introduce wide-ranging measures that will best protect our employees. The actions we have taken ensure that safe distancing between employees on-site can be achieved at all times. In circumstances where risks are greater, additional protective visors are being provided.”
Among the safety measures being implemented are:
Macdonald adds: “The health and safety of our employees is absolutely paramount as we all adjust to this new normal and the measures we have put in place will ensure we all stay healthy and avoid risks.”
