Toyota Motor Europe to gradually restart operations at its plants in France and Poland

Brussels, 15 April 2020 – Toyota Motor Europe announces it will gradually restart operations at Toyota Motor Manufacturing France (TMMF), Valenciennes, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Poland (TMMP), in Jelcz-Laskowice and Walbrzych.

TMMF is home to the production of the compact Toyota Yaris, whilst TMMP produces the related engine and transmission units. TMMF will resume production on limited volume from 22 April, following the suspension of operations since 17 March. Closely linked to TMMF’s operations, TMMP is also preparing for production on reduced volumes, following TMMF demand.

Restart at gradual pace

TMMF will resume operations at a gradual pace, initially producing significantly lower volumes compared to normal operations. This cautious approach has been taken with a view to secure the safety and health of our employees and stakeholders, which is our number one priority. TMMF will commence on a single shift from the usual 3-shift strategy, for the first two weeks.

The decision to restart part of our economic activities at some of our European manufacturing operations has been taken in consideration of the national and local governments’ guidance and recommendations, in preparation for deliveries of vehicles ordered by customers. As part of a thorough feasibility study and in consultation with all internal stakeholders represented in the Safety and Health & Social and Economic Committees, the decision to proceed with the restart has received the approval after fully meeting the conditions to do so in a safe manner.

It is understood that the best way to restart is under no volume pressure, with focus on Health and Safety as well as member training/awareness.

With this principle in mind, the gradual and controlled ramp up allows for a proper and smooth management of operations whilst keeping 100% within the sanitary protocols. Plant management will focus on ensuring members are fully aware, and checks will be put in place to guarantee implementation. Additionally, continuous improvements will be made to the current set of standards, as required.

Moving forward, we will continue to base our decisions on the guidance we receive from authorities in each country and region – pursuing our drive to contribute to society through safe employment.

Safety and security measures to be implemented

In addition to the basic social distancing guidelines – including marking of specific distances within the facilities floor shop, some of the concrete Health and Safety protocols that will be implemented include:

1/ Members receive a welcome pack that includes a detailed brief on the new sanitary guidelines at the different facilities

2/ Distribution of appropriate number of individual masks and antibacterial gel, in addition to other necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) depending of the type and conditions of their work (e.g. gloves and face shields) – all secured for the restart of the operation from day 1.

3/ Briefings and meetings will be held in smaller groups, respecting the distancing, and reduced in time

4/ Antibacterial gel dispensers will be located at strategic spots

5/ Doors will be kept open, where possible – if not, allow for opening using elbow only will be possible

6/ The restaurant will be closed, members will be asked to bring their own food

7/ Additional cleaning of spaces where people gather, such as cloakroom and break-out rooms

8/ Breaks will be reorganised to respect social distancing

TMMF and TMMP social contribution activities

So far, TMMF has donated over 34,000 face masks and 176 pieces of 3D printed face shields to local hospitals. It is also delivers engineering support for ventilators to be used by 2 adults simultaneously.

The social contribution activities of TMMP include the donation of 4,000 masks, 200 L of disinfecting liquid and 194 pieces of face guards.