Whirlpool worker tests positive

CLYDE — An employee of the Clyde-based Whirlpool Corp. recently tested positive for COVID-19. "The individual has not been in the plant since May 4 and followed safety protocols while in the plant," according to an email response from a company spokesperson sent on Saturday to the Register. "We are working closely with local health authorities to provide the necessary support for our colleague, and we are wishing our colleague well." This marks the plant's first such positive test in a facility employing about 3,200 people. It's not known exactly when the person tested positive or who else might have been infected. "A thorough investigation revealed this employee had limited exposure with others," the statement read. "Individuals with whom the employee had come into close contact were also following safety protocols. Those individuals have been notified and are on quarantine. The area where the employee works will be closed temporarily to conduct a deep cleaning per CDC guidelines." Several other questions the Register sent to Clyde executives went unanswered, including the type of work this employee performed at the plant, when he or she will be allowed to return to work and under what circumstances. "We can't comment on individual situations," spokeswoman Deborah O'Connor said. Staying open In March, when the pandemic first arrived in Ohio, Whirlpool executives deemed the Clyde facility "essential," meaning it would stay open. "We support Gov. (Mike) DeWine's actions to try and curb the spread of the virus, and we support the confirmation that Whirlpool Corp. and the home appliances our people make are essential," company spokesman Chad Parks said. "This designation will enable our company to continue producing appliances to serve our consumers during this difficult time." DeWine's statewide stay-at-home order outlined Whirlpool and other household appliance manufacturers as necessary to maintaining vital industries and operations. "We have a commitment to consumers across the U.S. who need our appliances to take care of their families," Parks said. "They depend on our products more than ever so they can clean, cook and provide proper food and medicine storage in their homes."