Code of Conduct
Preamble
All employees are bound by the provisions of this Code of Conduct. It sets out the values, principles and practices that have guided Ursa-Chemie’s business activities in the past and will continue to do so in the future. The aim of the management is to uphold ethical standards and to create a working environment that promotes integrity, respect and fair conduct. A business policy that strictly adheres to the law and our principles serves the long-term interests of the company.
Compliance with laws and other regulations both at home and abroad
In all business decisions and actions, Ursa-Chemie is committed to complying with applicable laws and other relevant regulations both in Germany and abroad. Integrity and honesty underpin our relationships with our customers and suppliers.
Commitment from management
Ursa-Chemie is committed to acting in an economically, socially and environmentally responsible manner. This is also reflected in the company’s stated philosophy of success. Ursa-Chemie therefore strives to conduct its business competently and ethically and to uphold fair competition in all markets in which it operates by complying with applicable laws. Unfair advantages over customers, suppliers or competitors must be avoided.
Human rights
All employees must be at least 18 years old (with the exception of apprentices) and have completed their compulsory education. Forced or compulsory labour is prohibited. Employees are free to terminate their employment contract, provided they give reasonable notice.
Discrimination against employees in any form is prohibited. This applies to discrimination on grounds such as gender, race, caste, skin colour, disability, trade union membership, political beliefs, origin, religion, age, pregnancy or sexual orientation.
Employees can communicate openly with management about working conditions without fear of reprisals of any kind. They have the right to organise, join a trade union, appoint representatives and stand for election as such.
Ursa-Chemie ensures occupational health and safety in the workplace in accordance with national regulations as a minimum, and supports continuous development to improve the working environment.
As a socially responsible employer, Ursa-Chemie regards its employees as a valuable asset. Ursa-Chemie’s HR policy helps to provide every employee with the opportunity for professional and personal development. Open discussion, constructive criticism and new ideas are encouraged.
environmental standards
Ursa-Chemie applies the precautionary principle to environmental issues, takes initiatives to promote greater environmental responsibility, and encourages the development and widespread adoption of environmentally friendly technologies. Ursa-Chemie ensures appropriate environmental protection at every stage of production. This includes a proactive approach to prevent or minimise the consequences of accidents that could have a negative impact on the environment.
Business ethics
The highest standards of integrity are expected in all business activities and relationships. Any form of corruption, bribery, extortion, money laundering and embezzlement is strictly prohibited. Ursa Chemie also considers it its duty to restrict the sourcing of resources necessary for the company’s success to areas that are not affected by civil war or known for serious human rights violations.
Employees must not allow themselves to be influenced by accepting favours; nor are they permitted to influence others through favours. Employees may only accept hospitality within customary limits and symbolic gifts appropriate to the circumstances. In case of doubt, the employee must seek the advice or approval of the relevant management. No employee may accept gifts of the following nature from third parties or offer them to third parties, regardless of the value of the gift: money, loans, commissions or other benefits of monetary value.
Confidentiality and data protection
Much of Ursa-Chemie’s business information is confidential or protected by law, and is therefore subject to a duty of confidentiality. This does not apply where the disclosure of such information has been authorised by URSA CHEMIE or is required by law or regulation.
The duty of confidentiality applies in particular to intellectual property. This includes trade secrets, business and marketing plans, drafts, business documents, salary data and all other unpublished financial data and reports.
All personal information relating to employees, customers, business partners, suppliers and other third parties is handled with care and treated as confidential by Ursa-Chemie, in full compliance with data protection laws. The protection of this information must be ensured with the utmost care.
Implementation and monitoring
The rules set out in this Code of Conduct form a core part of Ursa-Chemie’s corporate culture. Consistent adherence to these principles is essential. Every employee is responsible for ensuring this.
If an employee has any concerns or complaints regarding the matters set out in this Code of Conduct, or is aware of a possible breach of the guidelines contained herein, they should immediately bring this to the attention of their line manager for clarification. This may also be done anonymously or in confidence. Ursa-Chemie does not permit any form of retaliation in response to complaints made in good faith under this Code of Conduct.
Information and Communication
Ursa-Chemie communicates this Code of Conduct in an appropriate manner both within and outside the company.
As of August 2020