ROME, Ga. — Pirelli Tire North America Inc. is reducing operations at its plant in Rome in an effort to protect the health and safety of its workers amid the spread of the coronavirus.

Pirelli said it plans to scale back production, starting March 22, and will then suspend manufacturing for one week starting March 29, during which time the factory will be cleaned and sanitized.

Slowing the rate of production will result in a reduction in the number of employees present, Pirelli said, ensuring the safety of those in the factory, while not interrupting supply to our clients. Pirelli noted the reduced output also corresponds to lower demand.

The tire maker constantly is monitoring the evolution of the situation and "is ready, at any momen,t to adopt additional measures if they become necessary."

Pirelli employs 300 at the 18-year-old Rome car tire plant, where capacity is listed as 400,000 units a year.

Pirelli did not comment on plans for the pair of plants in operation in Silao, Mexico.