Engineering firm Schaeffler is distributing 2000 of its new ‘Back on Track’ packs as part of a move to support UK garages as they recover from the lockdown.
The package has been launched as the government eases lockdown measures but advises commuters against using public transport, meaning roads will become busier in the weeks ahead. There will also, it says, “be a backlog of MOT, servicing and urgent repairs to catch up on”, but garages should adhere to strict social distancing and hygiene measures.
The Back on Track package contains a floor sticker and tape to allow workshops and receptions to be separated into two-metre blocks, a washable face mask, hand sanitiser and hi-vis vest, as well as large posters and air fresheners that remind technicians and customers of the guidelines.
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The key guidelines for garage workers are as follows:
– Minimise contact with customers and suppliers
– Use new disposable gloves, seat covers and mats for every job
– Wipe down all contact points as you go
– Try to keep access to each car to just one technician
– Turn off all climate control systems
– Respect high risk customers by setting up a no-contact drop-off and collection system
Schaeffler has also suggested ways of attracting additional custom: “A key message here is that the 6-month MOT delay does NOT mean that the car is roadworthy. Garage owners and technicians have a duty of care to make sure that all vehicles leaving the workshop are in a legal, safe and roadworthy condition.
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“Drivers could get fined with non-functioning lights and wipers, or if tyres don’t meet legal requirements. If a vehicle isn’t roadworthy, the driver also may find that their insurance is invalid if they have an accident.
The firm also proposes free visual safety checks and exploiting social media to reach people stuck at home. Traditional newspaper adverts also still work, it notes.
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