Introduction
This Code of Ethics and Conduct (“Code”) reflects the values, principles, and ethical standards of Nordmet. It applies to all employees, contractors, and representatives of Nordmet SA in the performance of their duties. The Code is intended to guide behavior, support responsible decision-making, and foster a culture of trust, integrity, and accountability across all our operations.
Our goal is to create a working environment based on mutual respect, fairness, and transparency, where employees feel empowered to act ethically, speak up about concerns, and contribute to the long-term success of Nordmet SA. All individuals acting on behalf of Nordmet SA—including consultants, contractors, and temporary personnel—are expected to adhere strictly to the principles of honesty, fairness, integrity, and respect for human dignity, and to pursue the Nordmet SA’s objectives in accordance with these principles.
1. Core Values and Workplace Behavior
1.1 Integrity and Responsibility
- We act honestly and with integrity in all interactions and decisions.
- Employees are accountable for their actions, decisions, and their consequences.
- Transparency, fairness, and ethical conduct are fundamental in achieving Nordmet SA goals.
- Every employee is expected to communicate respectfully, provide accurate information, and ensure that their professional behavior reinforces Nordmet’s reputation and public trust.
- Decisions should be guided not only by compliance with laws and regulations but also by the principles of fairness, objectivity, and ethical reasoning.
1.2 Well-being
- Nordmet SA prioritizes the physical and mental health of all employees, recognizing that well-being is essential for productivity, collaboration, and a positive workplace culture.
- We actively promote awareness of work-life balance, stress management, and mental health support.
- Each employee is expected to look after their own well-being and that of their colleagues, fostering a safe, supportive, and respectful working environment.
- Managers are responsible for creating a culture where concerns about safety, health, or mental well-being can be raised without fear of retaliation.
1.3 Collaboration and Excellence
- We encourage teamwork and the sharing of knowledge, skills, and expertise to achieve the best outcomes for the Nordmet SA and its stakeholders.
- Commitment to excellence means striving to meet and exceed expectations, delivering high-quality results, and continuously improving processes.
- Employees should proactively contribute to a culture of collaboration and open communication.
- By supporting each other and sharing best practices, we create an environment where everyone can succeed while maintaining ethical standards.
1.4 Inclusion, Fairness, and Respect
- We embrace diversity and inclusion, treating all individuals equitably regardless of race, nationality, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, ancestry, social origin, political belief, or other characteristics.
- Discrimination, harassment, bullying, or any form of abusive behavior is strictly prohibited.
- Decisions regarding hiring, promotion, rewards, and professional development are based on merit, capability, ethical behavior, and alignment with Nordmet’s values.
- Employees are encouraged to recognize and appreciate differing perspectives, creating an environment where diverse viewpoints are respected and leveraged for better decision-making.
1.5 Human Rights and Sustainability
- Nordmet recognizes and respects the fundamental rights of all individuals.
- Child labor, forced labor, exploitation, or other human rights abuses are not tolerated.
- The Nordmet SA is committed to responsible, sustainable, and transparent business practices, including in sourcing, operations, and engagement with communities.
- Employees and partners are expected to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct, ensuring that all activities contribute to positive social and environmental outcomes.
2. Reporting Concerns and Speaking Up
- Nordmet SA actively promotes responsible conduct, integrity, and ethical business practices. Our reputation depends on the actions of every employee and all persons acting on our behalf.
- Employees are encouraged to speak up if they believe that they or others — including colleagues, managers, clients, suppliers, or third parties — may have violated the law, this Code, or any Nordmet SA policy, or have otherwise engaged in misconduct.
2.1 Duty to Report
- All employees are required to raise concerns about potential breaches of this Code, Nordmet SA policies, or applicable law.
- Managers have an additional responsibility to take appropriate steps to stop any misconduct they are aware of and to prevent its recurrence.
- Prompt reporting allows the Nordmet SA to investigate, address, and prevent misconduct, protecting employees, business partners, and the organization’s reputation.
2.2 Reporting Channels
- Concerns should first be raised with your manager or supervisor, who is usually best positioned to address them quickly.
- If this is not possible or comfortable, concerns may also be reported to Human Resources or the Legal Department.
- Anonymous reporting is available where permitted by law, ensuring that employees and third parties can report concerns without fear of identification.
2.3 Confidentiality and Protection
- All reports will be handled promptly and treated as confidentially as reasonably practicable.
- No employee will face retaliation for raising concerns in good faith or for participating in an investigation. Retaliation against whistleblowers or witnesses is strictly prohibited.
- Employees who report misconduct are encouraged to provide as much detail as possible, enabling thorough investigation and effective resolution.
3. Fair Trading and Competition
3.1 Competitors
- Nordmet is committed to fair, transparent, and ethical business practices and competes based on quality, innovation, and service.
- Employees must never spread misinformation or disparage competitors.
- Information about competitors must never be obtained through illegal or unethical methods, including industrial espionage or misuse of confidential relationships.
- Collusion, price-fixing, market allocation, bid-rigging, or any collective agreements to limit competition are strictly prohibited.
- Care must be taken when participating in trade associations or industry meetings where competitors are present.
3.2 Customers and Suppliers
- Relationships with customers and suppliers are based on fairness, loyalty, and mutual respect.
- Accurate, transparent information must be provided at all times, and material facts must not be misrepresented.
- Decisions regarding customers and suppliers must be based on legitimate commercial considerations, without favoritism or discrimination.
- Business partners are expected to uphold the same standards, including compliance with national and international competition laws.
4. Conflicts of Interest, Anti-Corruption, and Gifts
4.1 Conflicts of Interest
- Employees, representatives, and third parties acting on behalf of Nordmet SA owe a duty of loyalty to the Nordmet SA.
- A conflict of interest arises when personal interests interfere, or appear to interfere, with Nordmet SA’s best interests.
- Situations where conflicts may arise include:
- Outside employment, activities, or directorships;
- Financial interests in customers, suppliers, or competitors;
- Business dealings with friends or family;
- Receiving or offering gifts, entertainment, or favors;
- Personal benefits arising from ESG or other business opportunities.
- All actual, potential, or perceived conflicts must be promptly disclosed to a supervisor, Human Resources, or the Legal Department. Managers must take additional steps to mitigate conflicts appropriately.
4.2 Anti-Corruption and Bribery
- Nordmet SA has zero tolerance for bribery or corruption.
- Employees may not, directly or indirectly, offer, promise, give, request, or accept anything of value to improperly influence a decision or gain an unfair advantage.
- Special care must be taken in dealings with public officials to avoid any perception of bribery.
- Political contributions or support for candidates, parties, or affiliated organizations is prohibited.
4.3 Gifts and Entertainment
- Gifts and hospitality must:
- Be occasional, modest in value, and appropriate in context;
- Never be intended to influence business decisions;
- Never include cash or cash equivalents;
- Be transparent and approved where necessary.
4.4 Anti-Money Laundering and Financial Integrity
- Nordmet SA does not engage in or facilitate money laundering, tax evasion, or related criminal activities.
- Employees must:
- Conduct due diligence on business partners;
- Remain alert to unusual or suspicious transactions;
- Refuse assets known to come from criminal activity;
- Work only with partners committed to ethical business practices.
5. Confidentiality, Data Protection, and Nordmet SA Assets
5.1 Confidential Information
- Confidential or proprietary information must only be used for legitimate business purposes.
- Sharing internally should be limited to what is necessary for performing duties.
- Disclosure to third parties requires authorization, and the duty of confidentiality continues after employment ends.
- All documents, records, and electronic files remain Nordmet SA property and must be returned upon termination.
5.2 Data Protection (GDPR Compliance)
- Personal data is collected, stored, and used only for lawful business purposes.
- Sensitive personal data (health, biometric, religious, political beliefs) must be handled with extra care.
- Data is shared only when legally required, requested by the individual, or justified by legitimate business interest.
- Suppliers and partners must comply with data protection laws and treat personal and confidential information responsibly.
5.3 Nordmet SA Assets
- Employees are responsible for safeguarding tangible and intangible assets, including intellectual property, trade secrets, and business plans.
- Assets must be used only for legitimate business purposes and protected with care.
5.4 IT Systems and Electronic Resources
- Nordmet SA IT systems (computers, phones, email, intranet, software) are primarily for business use.
- Employees must follow security procedures and report any suspected breaches immediately.
6. Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE)
6.1 Commitment to a Safe and Healthy Workplace
- Nordmet SA provides and maintains a safe, healthy, and respectful workplace.
- Compliance with occupational health and safety laws is required.
6.2 Employee Responsibility
- Employees must:
- Take care of their own safety and that of others;
- Report hazards, unsafe conditions, or near misses;
- Stop work if unsafe;
- Follow all safety and emergency procedures.
6.3 Workplace Well-Being
- Nordmet SA promotes mental and physical well-being through:
- Ergonomic workstations;
- Awareness of stress management;
- Respectful workplace behaviour;
- Support for reintegration after illness or injury.
6.4 Environmental Responsibility
- We minimize environmental impact by:
- Reducing energy and paper usage;
- Promoting recycling and responsible waste management;
- Encouraging the use of sustainable modes of transportation, such as public transit, carpooling, cycling, or walking, to reduce carbon emissions associated with commuting;
- Using resources efficiently and sustainably.
7. Compliance and Enforcement
7.1 Compliance with Laws
- All employees, contractors, and third parties must understand and comply with relevant local, national, and international laws.
- Misconduct or actions creating the appearance of impropriety are prohibited.
- Employees should seek guidance from supervisors or the Legal/Compliance function if uncertain.
7.2 Human Rights
- Nordmet SA respects human dignity and rights.
- The Nordmet SA prohibits child labor, forced labor, human trafficking, and any human rights abuses.
- Suppliers and partners are expected to maintain the same commitment.
7.3 Accurate Records and Reporting
- Financial and business records must be accurate, complete, and comply with applicable standards.
- False or misleading entries, misclassification, or off-the-books transactions are prohibited.
7.4 Consequences of Non-Compliance
- Violations may result in disciplinary action, including warnings, termination, or legal action.
- Third parties who fail to comply with ethical and legal obligations may face contract termination or other legal consequences.
8. Acknowledgement
- All employees are required to read, understand, and comply with this Code of Conduct. Acknowledgement of this obligation forms part of the employment or contractual agreement with the Nordmet SA.
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