(WWJ) Many Big Three autoworkers will be allowed to go maskless on the job, beginning next month.
In a story you heard first on WWJ Newsradio 950, Autobeat Reporter Jeff Gilbert says the mask mandate will be lifted for fully vaccinated workers at all Big Three facilities — including Ford, General Motors and Stellantis (formerly Chrysler, FCA) — effective Monday, July 12.
"The (automakers') COVID-19 task force is saying they made this move after reviewing guidance from medical experts and government agencies," Gilbert reported.
Harley Shaiken, a labor professor at UC Berkeley, said this is a great example of collaboration between carmakers and the UAW.
"I think the combination of the Detroit automakers and the UAW working together on this was vital in saving many lives," Shaiken said.
COVID-19 vaccination is encouraged by the Big Three, it is not required at this point.
Those workers who are not vaccinated will be required to continue to wear their masks while working.
So, how will management know who is vaccinated and who isn't? Gilbert reports that it will the "honor system," as automakers will not be requiring workers to show their vaccine cards.
While this is welcome news for many employees toiling in hot and stuffy plants, Dave — who works for Stellantis — says if the mandate is lifted for the vaccinated, it should be lifted for everyone.
"I didn’t know that was the plan," he told WWJNewsradio.com. "If the vaccines work, it should be fine then. Take away the sick pay supplement they gave for it, go back to normal and let’s us get back to normal. They don’t let us wear shorts at my plant. Even with air it’s miserable."
The UAW released the following statement:
"After reviewing new data from health and medical experts as well as changes to state policies, the COVID-19 Joint Task Force, comprised of the UAW, Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, has decided to remove the mask mandate for those in the United States who have been fully vaccinated beginning July 12. The UAW, Ford, General Motors and Stellantis will also continue to comply with all state, county, and city regulations where we operate facilities.
The COVID-19 Task Force met Monday, June 28 and reviewed the reports of medical experts, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards to maintain safety as the companies continue to work through the pandemic.
For those fully vaccinated, the wearing of masks will be voluntary. Those who have not been vaccinated will continue to be required to wear a face mask. The Task Force will continue to monitor data carefully and make any adjustments necessary to protect the health and safety of employees.
While the UAW and the companies continue following the protocols that have kept our workplaces safe, we know that one of the best ways to fight this virus is by getting vaccinated. The Task Force continues to encourage everyone to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated against COVID-19 so that we can protect our sisters and brothers and their families."
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