DETROIT -- General Motors is expected to begin to resume production at its North American plants on May 18, according to media reports.
The automaker will detail its restart plans as part of its first-quarter earnings statement Wednesday, GM said in a statement.
"We've communicated our target restart timing with our employees and other key stakeholders. We'll share more information publicly as part of our first quarter financial results communication," said spokesman Jim Cain.
An alert to UAW members says that some plants will reopen next week in order for most manufacturing to meet the May 18 target, according to the Detroit News.
The alert to workers came after Fiat Chrysler Automobiles on Tuesday announced plans to resume production at most U.S. plants the week of May 18.
In a statement Tuesday, the UAW did not oppose FCA's target restart date.
"As for the start date, the companies contractually make that decision and we all knew this day would come," UAW President Rory Gamble said in the statement. "Our UAW focus and role is and will continue to be, on health and safety protocols to protect our members."
GM last week created a health and safety manual to instruct team leaders on the company's new safety protocol.
"In these uncertain times, we must focus on controlling what we can, and we will continue to take the appropriate actions. As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, we are ready to adapt and make any changes to policy in accordance with relevant health and safety protocols issued by authorities," CEO Mary Barra and Jim Glynn, vice president of global workplace safety, said in the 48-page guide.
GM's manual outlines requirements for physical distancing, wearing face masks and safety glasses, and participating in health questionnaires and temperature screenings.
GM's housekeeping team will clean high-traffic areas three to four times per shift, as well as between shifts. Doors will be propped open when possible to increase airflow and eliminate the need for workers to touch them.
