FLEETDRIVE
“Many dealerships have opted to remain open to
maintain support for customers, particularly from a
service perspective, during this difficult period.
“Of particular importance are first responder and
essential services vehicles. We must keep these
vehicles on the road to ensure our communities
continue to function and remain safe.
“In addition, we need to ensure those who
physically attend their workplace can travel safely.
The motor vehicle is a safe form of transport during
the pandemic, allowing occupants to preserve their
personal distance from other commuters.
“Within dealerships, customer safety is of the
highest priority, and automotive brands have
initiated a variety of enhanced hygiene protocols
and contactless consultations to maintain personal
distance,” Mr Weber said.
The March monthly result represents the 24th
consecutive month of negative growth for the
automotive industry in Australia and has been
caused by several issues over the past two
years, including environmental, political and
economic factors.
Industry urged to upgrade vehicle hygiene practices
Australian motoring industry peak body, the Federal
Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI), has
urged drivers to upgrade vehicle hygiene practices
to help minimise the risk of spreading COVID-19.
In addition to following all Government hygiene
protocols, below are some measures which may
further reduce the spread of the disease.
Use disinfectant wipes to clean ‘high-contact’
surfaces in cars every time they are used.
High-contact surfaces can include door handles,
steering wheels, gear shift knobs, shift paddles,
indicator and wiper stalks and entertainment or
navigation systems. Vehicle key fobs, seats, interior
grab handles, doors, armrests, additional display
screens, cup holders and air conditioning vents
could also be wiped down after vehicle use.
Limit vehicle passengers as much as possible to
maximise social distance.
Take care not to damage vinyl, plastic, paint
or other surface coatings with aggressive
chemicals like bleach, hydrogen peroxide or
high concentration alcohol sanitiser. While these
chemicals will disinfect the surface, they may
discolour them or remove surface coatings.
handling fuel pumps and touching cash or EFT
terminals and any other public surfaces during the
transaction.
FCAI Chief Executive Tony Weber said taking these
simple measures may help stem the rising tide of
infections without impacting mobility.
“As social distancing measures limit transportation
options, Australians are looking to their cars as a
more isolated means to conduct essential travel,
and in some cases are even receiving vital infection
screening from their vehicle.
“Maintaining hygiene can assist in preventing
transmission. It is just as important as cleaning any
other surface. Cars should be sanitised every time
they are entered or exited.
“With common sense and consistency, we can help
to limit the spread of coronavirus and mitigate the
impact of disrupting essential mobility,” Mr Weber
said.
Take particular care when refuelling vehicle and
ensure that hands are washed or sanitized after
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