We succeed because of the thousands of women and men who come to work daily and breathe life into our brands. Ensuring their safety and well-being during this global health crisis is our primary concern. To that end, Kohler is taking responsible and necessary precautions at our facilities around the world to minimize the spread of COVID-19.

In the U.S., several of our manufacturing operations fit within essential business categories, and we are keeping those facilities open. Our products and services are critical to support infrastructure and ability to function in the safest and healthiest way possible.   

Where production continues, we are adhering to strict Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) health and safety guidelines, deep cleaning and sanitization at increased intervals.

Social distancing practices are being facilitated through staggered start/stop times, breaks and lunches. We’re following strict infectious disease and pandemic cleaning protocols. Broadly, this involves intensified disinfection between shifts and in high-traffic areas, structured monitoring and inspection. Additionally, associates undergo temperature checks before entering our facilities and are outfitted with personal protective equipment, including masks and eyewear.

In Mexico, our Reynosa team has also introduced creative strategies to support social distancing. In the cafeteria, acrylic dividers separate associates during break time and a to-go lunch system has been put in place. Additional handwashing and sanitation stations also were installed to encourage increased hygiene.

We recognize that associates may be experiencing added stress related to the physical and financial health of their families. To help alleviate concerns, we’ve stationed an on-site nurse, and are providing flexible work arrangements, relaxing sick leave and absenteeism policies. We have also instructed all associates to stay home if they are not feeling well, and we are accommodating associates not comfortable coming to work or who have to care for family members.

Where possible and practical, we’ve also required associates to work remotely to help reduce the risk of exposure for themselves and their coworkers. Ultimately, our goal is to mitigate the spread of the virus and foster an environment where everyone feels safe and can be their very best at all times. While many of us are apart from one another at this time, we’re facing this challenge as we have so many others in our 146-year history—together.