Production at the Ford Mustang assembly plant has come to a halt, and this time it’s not for the reason you might think. While production at Flat Rock Assembly in Michigan has been disrupted by the global microchip shortage, this situation is different. Instead, a suspected gasoline leak has prompted the evacuation of some residents within the area, according to The Detroit News. Still, the issue is expected to be resolved by Friday.
Ford Mustang Flat Rock Assembly Downtime Extended
Ford Motor Company traced the fumes of an industrial chemical called benzene (found in gasoline) to a pipe leak that carries fuel to vehicles built within the plant. The company has kept a close watch on the air quality in the plant to ensure the safety of the 1,900 workers striving to resolve the issue. According to Ford spokesman T.R. Reid, production was paused for Labor Day weekend, but the downtime was extended for the week so that they could focus on the leak along with supporting displaced residents.
Ford secured several hotel rooms to house people affected by the issue and has also given them gift cards to pay for food and other problems caused by the evacuation. Ford has also been working with the city to establish a community fund to help pay for residential financial losses caused by the leak.
Image copyright Steven Pham, Muscle Cars & Trucks.## A Million Dollars in Aid
So far, Ford Motor Company has contributed around a million dollars to assist with the cleanup and temporarily relocating affected residents. An official community fund is expected to be organized to help pay for financial losses associated with the gas leak that have affected residents of Flat Rock, Michigan.
The extra downtime given to employees and delays in Ford Mustang production at the factory is set to extend through the week, but it’s unclear whether or not it’ll end then or get a further extension depending on the emergency status by Friday.
The Flat Rock Assembly plant is a 2,900,000 square foot manufacturing facility, and employs 3,510 hourly workers and 140 salaried workers. It’s the only plant in the world that builds the Ford Mustang.
Image copyright Steven Pham, Muscle Cars & Trucks.### Share this automotive news:
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