Human Rights Policy and Our Values in Action

Human Rights Policy

Caterpillar is committed to respecting recognized human rights principles aimed at promoting and protecting human rights in the countries in which we operate. We recognize that governments are ultimately responsible for establishing the legal framework to protect human rights within their jurisdictions.

Consistent with our commitment and in accordance with applicable law and practice, we:

• do not condone and strive to eliminate all forms of forced labor, child labor and discrimination in the workplace.
• work to establish safe and healthy working conditions.
• value diversity as a foundational key to the success of our business strategy.
• seek to compensate our employees fairly and competitively where they work.
• respect principles of freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining.

We promote and respect the rule of law and will comply with the applicable law in the countries where we operate. We operate within the framework of our worldwide Code of Conduct. We maintain relevant policies and procedures to further our intended operations. We expect our business practices to be undertaken in accordance with applicable law, policy and Our Values in Action.

This policy supports Caterpillar’s vision to create a work environment that all can take pride in, to be a company others respect and admire, and to contribute to a world made better by our actions.

Our Guiding Principles

While this policy is uniquely our own, it is informed by:

• United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights
• Universal Declaration of Human Rights
• International Labor Organization's Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work

This policy complements Our Values in Action in our Code of Conduct – Integrity, Excellence, Teamwork, Commitment and Sustainability. 

Enterprise policies apply to the Caterpillar enterprise, including subsidiaries, majority-owned joint ventures, and, following a transition period, newly acquired companies. If a Caterpillar division or employee believes that elements of an enterprise policy conflict with local law, they should promptly contact the Office of Business Practices. Annually, all employees are required to review and certify their understanding and compliance with Caterpillar’s Code of Conduct. In addition, they are expected to report any circumstances or actions that violate, or appear to violate, the Code, enterprise policy or applicable law.   

Caterpillar’s Sustainability & other Public Policy Committee has explicit oversight over sustainability, social and public policy matters, including those related to the environment, climate change, human rights and lobbying.