COVID-19 Hits Car Industry... Strengthened Quarantine Measures and Expanded Remote Work

Hyundai Motor Group and Korea Technology to Expand Remote Work Next Week

The scene of Hyundai Motor Ulsan Plant's main gate with commuting buses lined up on the afternoon of the 28th (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] The domestic automobile industry has been put on high alert due to the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19). Each company is strengthening quarantine systems and expanding remote work for employees to prevent infections.

According to the industry on the 29th, one employee working at Hyundai Motor's Ulsan Plant 2 was confirmed to have COVID-19 the day before. Upon confirmation of the case, Hyundai Motor immediately suspended operations at Ulsan Plant 2 and conducted emergency disinfection focused on the confirmed patient's movement paths.

Since complete vehicle plants have all processes organically connected, even a problem in part of the line or a shortage of a single component can impact the entire factory. Therefore, Hyundai Motor and other automakers are particularly focused on preventing infections within the plants. They have already implemented mandatory temperature checks at the factory gates upon arrival and require the use of masks and hand sanitizers during work processes.

Unlike production lines where on-site work is essential, headquarters are trying to prevent worst-case scenarios by expanding remote work. Hyundai Motor Group, which had early applied remote work for employees with weaker immunity such as pregnant women, decided to expand this policy starting from the 27th. Employees working at the Yangjae-dong headquarters and those in Seoul and Gyeonggi areas are also allowed to work remotely according to their job nature until the 6th of next month. Other automakers are also reportedly considering expanding remote work.

Domestic tire companies have also entered emergency response mode as the spread of COVID-19 intensifies. Initially adopting passive measures such as travel restrictions, they are now considering more proactive steps like remote work.

Korea Technology Group has expanded remote work measures introduced for pregnant employees starting from the 24th, and will further broaden the scope from next week. Having already taken preventive measures such as distributing hygiene products like masks and sanitizers, Korea Technology Group plans to significantly increase the number of employees working remotely from the 2nd to the 6th of next month in preparation for the spread of COVID-19.

Kumho Tire also decided to implement remote work for pregnant employees starting from the 26th. The period is set until the 6th of next month, with plans to review and possibly extend the duration depending on the COVID-19 situation.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.