MILAN — Pirelli & C. S.p.A. is preparing for a gradual return to activity in Italy on May 4, following a six-week halt in production amid the COVID-19 pandemic health crisis.
Pirelli said it plans to start manufacturing at its Settimo Vettura passenger and truck tire plant in Turin at reduced levels, due to lower demand.
At the Bollate plant, where production includes high-performance Velo bicycle tires, only essential activities will restart in May, "with a very small number of employees present."
In addition, Bollate will begin the production of face masks exclusively for employees and their families.
Pirelli said it was collaborating with the Università degli Studi of Milan to validate new operating procedures adopted for restarting activities.
The plan entails "rigorous" health, safety and environment procedures, including constant sanitization of all areas in the factories, obligatory use of face masks, body temperature readings as well as reduced number of workers per shift.
At the headquarters in Milan, and in offices generally, the company said it will encourage working from home in addition to introducing shifts.
The Pirelli statement did not offer an update on the operation status of other production units across Europe.
Pirelli halted production March 23 at plants in England, Italy and Romania.