Boeing has announced that the company will resume all Commercial Airplanes production in a phased approach at its Puget Sound-region facilities next week, after suspending operations last month in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the company announced on Friday.
“This phased approach ensures we have a reliable supply base, our personal protective equipment is readily available and we have all of the necessary safety measures in place to resume essential work for our customers,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes and senior executive in the Pacific Northwest.
Boeing has taken additional precautions and instituted comprehensive procedures to keep people safe and fight the spread of COVID-19 at all of the company’s sites. Approximately 27,000 people in the Puget Sound area will return to production of the 747, 767, 777 and 787 programs, supporting critical global transportation infrastructure, cargo services and national defense and security missions.
The company’s practices reinforce enhanced cleaning, employee health and physical distancing in partnership with employees. Aligned with federal and state guidelines, including staggering shift start times to reduce the flow of employees arriving and departing work and visual controls like floor markings and signage to create physical distance.
In addition, employees will be required to wear face coverings at Boeing sites in Washington. The company will provide required personal protective equipment to employees working in areas where physical distancing cannot be maintained for an extended period and Boeing will ask employees to perform self-health checks before coming to work and to stay home if they are ill.
Employee wellness checks at the beginning of every shift and voluntary temperature screening at many manufacturing locations and contact tracing will be implemented when an employee tests positive for COVID-19 to reduce risk to teammates. Boeing will continue virtual meetings and employees who can work from home will continue to do so.
Enhanced measures will continue until conditions allow for a return to regular work and cleaning processes. Boeing will continue to monitor government guidance on COVID-19, assess the impact on company operations and adjust plans as the situation evolves.
About Boeing
Boeing is the world’s largest aerospace company and leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services. As the top U.S. exporter, the company supports commercial and government customers in more than 150 countries.
Boeing employs more than 150,000 people worldwide and leverages the talents of a global supplier base. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its customers and invest in its people and future growth.
