Aftermarket bodies issue Covid-19 guidance

The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) has joined with the Garage Equipment Association (GEA), Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), Scottish Motor Trade Association (SMTA) and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) to provide the automotive aftermarket sector with vital insight into best practice for Covid-19 protective measures.

The new guidance, which is available from all the organisations involved in its creation, is designed to help the sector identify measures businesses may need to take to safely operate while minimising the risk of coronavirus transmission among employees and customers.

The guide has been compiled from a wide range of best practice and guidance documents and is intended to complement official guidance and the work of other trade associations. It should be used in accordance with the latest government advice which may change over time.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, said: “The aftermarket is, undoubtedly, going to be on the front line as the government is now encouraging people to go back to their workplace, if they cannot do their job from home, and where possible without using public transport.

“Owners whose vehicles have been stationary for many weeks and which might even be overdue for annual servicing or MOTs could well require assistance from their local garage. But they will want the reassurance that the best possible hygiene and distancing practices will be in place. Garage employees returning to work will also want the reassurance that their well-being is front of mind for their employers and we believe this publication, which is a real case of the industry working together, will give our collective members the vital support they need at this challenging time.

“The IMI is also fully endorsing the SMMT’s call to government to scrap the six-month extension to MOTs announced at the end of March. While the motives for the initiative were sound at that time, there are serious risks in the extension remaining in place now. First and foremost, if vehicles are coming back on to the roads in volume it is vital for all road users’ safety that they are roadworthy.”

The Covid-19 Protective Measures Best Practice Guide is designed to be an evolving publication, reflecting feedback from staff and customers as well as any changes and issues that come to light.