New social distancing system at work in Hyster

The USA owned firm, which makes forklift trucks, had its last normal working day on March 25 this year.

And since then company has been working with staff and unions on bringing those workers back to the plant.

A spokesperson said: “The majority of employees had been put on furlough leave and those who could effectively work from home quickly set up home offices to keep the business functioning.

“Since then a new journey began with management and Unite the Union working closely as a Social Distancing Team to begin preparations to enable our employees to return to work in a safe and controlled manner.”

“HR Absence Management protocols became critical in getting a real time view of who was fit to return to work and who needed to self-isolate or shield.

“A range of homeworking, furlough, shielding and self-isolation periods has become the new norm for many employees. However, over 400 employees returned to a new work environment on Monday 4 May at the Craigavon Plant.”

The firm now has hygiene screens at security, stores, Occupational health and some offices with strict access controls for all visitors arriving on site, including visitor questionnaires.

All staff have been provided with PPE and the 2m social distancing rules applied to all areas with restricted access to locker rooms, offices and work stations. There is even a one way system around the 47,000 square metre plant.

“This range of actions and the co-operation of our committed workforce facilitated a smooth return for the majority of employees on site,” said the spokesperson.

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