Operations
Through strategic investments and strong facilities management systems, we continue to make our manufacturing and distribution network stronger, delivering best-in-class, global operational excellence.
Management Approach and Targets
Whirlpool Corporation’s “We Care” Environment, Health, Safety & Sustainable Operations (EHSS) Management System is guided by our We Care Policy & Standards Manual. Aligned to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001:2015 and 45001:2018, our We Care operating framework clearly defines our company EHSS requirements.
The We Care framework establishes four vital commitments for employees at every Whirlpool facility:
- Protect our people, including contractors and visitors
- Preserve the environment
- Enable the business and our people to act sustainably
- Share the responsibility
Whirlpool Corporation employs World Class Manufacturing (WCM) methodology, which serves as the operational system for improving safety, productivity and quality. WCM supports sustainability by focusing on reducing waste and losses within production systems. Implemented in all production sites, WCM features dedicated pillars to Safety, Environment and Energy, which guide efforts to prevent injuries and reduce our environmental footprint. We also use real-time data and analytics, artificial intelligence and equipment connectivity to maintain a best-in-class manufacturing and distribution network.
World Class Manufacturing
Deployment
Improvement
Maintenance
Organization
Maintenance
Control
Customer Service
Management
Development
and Energy
Our WCM methodology supports:
Safety and Workplace Organization
Within the WCM methodology, Safety is the first pillar, underscoring that a safe and well-organized workplace must be achieved before focusing on other technical pillars. This aligns with our We Care framework, which outlines how environment, health, safety and sustainable practices must be embedded within operations.
Driving Operational Efficiency and Decarbonization
(GHG/Energy Management)
Energy Use Reduction: WCM’s Environment and Energy pillar focuses on systematically managing and improving energy use through monitoring, innovation and efficiency. Energy consumption is reduced through WCM efficiency projects and facility retrofits, such as the optimization of boilers and HVAC systems, reductions in compressed air use and LED lighting projects.
Decarbonization Projects and Renewables Integration: We prioritize electrification paired with renewable energy (solar, wind and biofuels) in our work to decarbonize manufacturing and warehouse operations. WCM’s Environment and Energy pillar supports project prioritization and implementation at each site. Integrating renewable energy enhances WCM by reducing operational costs, lowering carbon emissions and improving energy security through predictable and sustainable power generation.
Resource Management (Water and Waste)
Water Management: The WCM Environment and Energy pillar also plays a crucial role in managing our water resources. The pillar uses a cost analysis tool to address losses in our systems and prioritize projects that help our sites efficiently manage resources. Projects we have implemented include wastewater treatment and recirculation for non-potable uses, and reduction of evaporation losses in cooling towers.
Waste Reduction (Zero Waste to Landfill — ZWtL): Our primary waste reduction program follows the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) ECVP 2799 ZWtL landfill standard, focusing on diverting materials from landfills and incineration without energy recovery. These initiatives are supported by the WCM Environment and Energy pillar, which facilitates investments in projects aimed at reducing waste generation, increasing recycling efforts and promoting material reuse.
Systematic Improvement
Through WCM’s continuous improvement approach, employees learn problem solving, lean tools and project management skills. WCM drives improvements in productivity and quality and reduces waste and losses through committed employee involvement and the rigorous application of methods and tools.