Ducati resumes production at its Italy plant

KUALA LUMPUR: Ducati is trying to get things back on track, with the slow and steady resumption of operations at its Italy based, Borgo Panigale factory. The production resumed last Monday, 27 April 2020.

The production at the Bologna plant was temporarily suspended by the company (on 13 March) following the protocol for measures to control the spread of coronavirus. Then there was the order under which all non-essential activities were suspended; therefore, despite being ready, Ducati was not able to resume production. Now, with the gradual improvement in the condition, the Italian government has allowed companies deemed strategic for the economy, whose work mainly comprises of export, and whose prolongation suspension would risk the country losing additional market shares, to resume production.

The work will resume in phases. In phase one, only a part of the workers involved in the production line will return. So, first will come the workshop staff, followed by engine assembly workforce, and lastly, motorcycle assembly workers. Employees will continue to work from home, and only those who are not in a position to carry out a smart working style will be allowed in the factory. All resources engaged in IT, finance, marketing, logistics, purchasing, commercial, personnel management area will be required to work from their personal space.

The company has re-organised the production process, so instead of an 8-hour shift, there will be two seven-hour shifts allowing a minimum number of workers inside the plant at once, thus minimising contact. The factory canteen will remain active but with one seat over every four chairs.

As for the Ducati R&D technicians who cannot work from home are allowed in the workplace by specific ATECO code. So, all the engineers who carry out motorcycle tests and laboratory testing are present at the Borgo Panigale plant. On the other hand, all project managers, designers, and those in the calculation department will work from remote locations. Thus, ensuring the development of new products and deliveries of Ducati motorcycles.

Ducati further confirmed that visits to the Museum, Factory, and Fisica in Moto would remain suspended until further notice. Also, the entry in the Borgo factory will be prohibited for the dealers, suppliers, external staff, and foreign contracted companies, unless proven utmost necessary for the continuity of product development, general services, and production activities.

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