



THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN UPDATED AS OF FEB. 3
A new strain of coronavirus, which causes upper respiratory infections, originating in the central Chinese city of Wuhan has currently resulted in more than 17,000 confirmed cases around the world. Known as novel coronavirus, this virus was declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization on Jan. 30 due to the rapid pace it has spread outside China. More than 360 fatalities have resulted, most in China with one case in the Phillippines.
Dedicated cross-functional teams at Ford are closely monitoring the outbreak and any possible implications for our people and our business. Working closely with national and regional authorities in China, the team is making sure Ford stays on top of the rapidly evolving situation, providing our colleagues and other stakeholders in China and around the world with relevant updates, and applying business continuity plans.
Non-production Ford employees in China have resumed work as of Feb. 3. To the fullest extent possible, Ford is encouraging its employees in China to work remotely in the near-term to reduce the risk of infection. The company will provide on-site support (e.g. masks, temperature readings, health checks) and medical advice to the vital few employees required at work locations during this time.
Among measures implemented by Ford to safeguard employee health and safety are:
· Instructing people to work remotely to reduce the risk of infection. Currently, plans are to resume production at manufacturing plants in China on Feb. 10
· Providing health supplies, such as face masks, and related medical advice to colleagues in China
· Administering temperature and health checks for Ford people who need to be at work locations to support business-critical functions
· Staffing a 24-hour employee assistance program hotline
In addition, Ford has restricted all business-related travel to, from and within China. Local employees who have traveled to Wuhan and other affected areas, as well as employees outside the country who have traveled to China, have been instructed to self-quarantine themselves for 14 days upon their returns.