Yamazaki Mazak has increased the number of production shifts at its Worcester-based European Manufacturing Plant after the easing of lockdown restrictions for UK manufacturers.
The company will focus on producing a core group of machines, including its new CV5-500 simultaneous five-axis machining centre, as well as models from its VCN and VTC vertical machining-centre ranges, plus the QT series of CNC turning centres.
Mazak has been able to safely increase production levels by implementing a number of stringent new factory systems and processes that ensure compliance with UK Government guidance on social distancing and workplace safety during the Covid-19 pandemic.
A 31-page document — published on the Mazak Web site (
www.mazakeu.co.uk) — provides details of all the changes made to the factory, alongside a full risk assessment for all production and administration areas of the site, plus a breakdown of all potential risks to staff and customers.
Richard Smith, European group managing director (Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd), said: “There is no doubt that the last few months have been incredibly challenging for the UK as a whole, and for manufacturing. However, the resilience and adaptability on display across industry have been nothing short of outstanding.
“I would like to thank our staff, who have adapted to the situation in an overwhelmingly positive way and have continued to work safely and diligently to ensure that we can meet the requirements of our customers.”
Stuart Astley, production director at Yamazaki Mazak’s Worcester facility, said: “As production director, my primary concern has always been the health and safety of all our staff.
“As a team, we have created a safe working environment that has allowed us to complete machine orders and support our customers during these difficult times.
“The workforce has played a key role in achieving this, not only by helping to establish the new ways of working but also by following them to the letter.”