(WWJ) Face coverings will once again be required at auto plants in metro Detroit, and across the nation.
Following the CDC's change in COVID-19 workplace standards related to the Delta variant, the United Auto Workers union (UAW) on Tuesday announced that it is bringing back mask mandates for auto workers — regardless of vaccination status.
The COVID-19 Joint Task Force, comprised of the UAW, Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, says starting Wednesday, August 4, all workers will be required to wear masks at all plants, offices and warehouses.
The task force urged members and their families to get vaccinated.
A statement reads:
"While we know that masks can be uncomfortable, the spread of the Delta variant and recent data outlining the alarmingly high rate of transmission among those unvaccinated is a serious health threat.
"We know that the best way to fight this virus is by getting vaccinated. The Task Force is strongly encouraging all members, coworkers and their families to roll up their sleeves so we can move more quickly on once again relaxing mask protocols. The more our members, coworkers and their families are vaccinated, the quicker we can vanquish this deadly pandemic."
It's unclear how long the mandate may last.
The task force added that they will continue to closely monitor the situation "to ensure we are doing everything possible to keep our families, members and employees safe."