Supplier Code of Conduct
Introduction
Axis Controls (NW) Ltd has a ‘zero tolerance’ policy when it comes to unethical business behaviour, such as bribery, corruption and forced labour. We expect all of our suppliers to adhere to similar standards and to conduct their business ethically. We are committed to promoting the core values in respect of human rights, labour and environmental practices. We are determined to ensure the highest standards of responsibility throughout our operations, including our supply chain. This Supplier Code of Conduct defines the main principles underlying your business activities as one of our suppliers.
Axis Controls (NW) Ltd is implementing this Code in its entirety and thereby expects full compliance from its suppliers with all applicable laws and regulations of the countries in which operations are managed or services provided. Wherever suppliers are located, all business shall be conducted in a manner compatible with this Supplier Code of Conduct. Suppliers are also expected to cascade these principles through their own supply chain.
General Disclaimer
This Supplier Code of Conduct is in no way intended to conflict with or modify the terms and conditions of any existing contract. Unless otherwise stated in such contract, in the event of a conflict, suppliers shall adhere to the contract terms.
Compliance
The overall objective of this Supplier Code of Conduct is to drive improved performance by building trusting and open relationships with our supply base. Suppliers are expected to comply with all applicable laws and regulations of the countries in which operations are managed or services provided.
Employment Standards
Human Rights
Axis Controls (NW) Ltd have zero tolerance to slavery and human trafficking. We expect all those in our supply chain and contractors to comply with our values. Suppliers are expected to treat people with respect and dignity, encourage diversity, remain receptive to diverse opinions, promote equal opportunity for all, and foster an inclusive and ethical culture, in accordance with the relevant International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions.
Child Labour
Suppliers must ensure that illegal child labour is not used in the performance of work. The term “child” refers to any person under the minimum legal age for employment where the work is performed provided the legal age is consistent with the minimum working ages defined by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
Human Trafficking (including forced or indentured labour)
Suppliers must adhere to regulations prohibiting human trafficking and comply with all applicable local laws in the country or countries in which they operate. Suppliers must refrain from violating the rights of others and address any adverse human rights impacts of their operations. They must also ensure that working hours, including overtime, do not exceed applicable legal requirements and compensate employees fairly, following local wage regulations and /or collective agreements. Where these do not exist, pay should be such that employees, at a minimum, can meet their basic needs.
Diversity and equality
Suppliers should aim to provide equality of opportunity and treatment regardless of race, colour, gender, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, age, or disability. Suppliers are expected to support equal pay for work of equal value. Suppliers must oppose discrimination or intimidation towards employees including all forms of threats of physical and psychological abuse.
Confidential information
Any information you receive through business dealings with Axis Controls (NW) Ltd must be kept confidential and never used for personal gain. This includes both commercial and technical information. Appropriate non-disclosure or confidentiality agreements are and will continue to be used to formalise the process of protecting proprietary information.
Competition and anti-trust
Axis Controls (NW) Ltd believe in fair competition. The supplier must not obtain confidential information on competitors by using illegal or unethical means. When participating in a competitive tender to procure goods or services to Axis Controls (NW) Ltd, the supplier shall not attempt to reach understandings with its competitors about prices or market allocation, or otherwise attempt to influence improperly the competitive process. We are committed to fair competition and do not tolerate any violation of antitrust laws, or related regulations.
Ethical Business Conduct
The supplier shall conduct its business using competitive and fair market practices. It must not engage in any understanding or agreements with competitors with the effect of biasing or improperly influencing the markets in which it operates.
Anti-Corruption
Suppliers must comply with the anti-corruption laws, directives and regulations that govern operations in the countries in which they do business. Suppliers are required to refrain from offering or making any improper payments of money or anything of value to government officials, political parties, candidates for public office, or to any other persons. This includes a prohibition on facilitating payments intended to expedite or secure performance of a routine governmental action like obtaining a visa or customs clearance, even in locations where such activity may not violate local law. Personal safety payments are permitted where there is an imminent threat to health or safety. Suppliers are expected to exert reasonable due diligence to prevent and detect corruption in all business arrangements, including partnerships, joint ventures, offset agreements, and the hiring of intermediaries such as agents or consultants
Ethical dealings Anti-Bribery
Suppliers to Axis Controls (NW) Ltd must not offer gifts or favours to Axis Controls (NW) Ltd employees that may be seen as an attempt to influence business decisions. All suppliers must conduct their business to a high ethical standard and comply with relevant legislation on bribery, corruption and prohibited business practice. Further details can be found in the Axis Controls (NW) Ltd Global Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Compliance Policy.
Counter Fraud and Corruption
Axis Controls (NW) Ltd demand that suppliers adhere to anti-corruption laws, including but not limited to the UK Bribery Act 2010, and anti-money laundering regulations. We expect suppliers to have robust processes to ensure that the subcontractors in their supply chain also comply with these laws. We have zero tolerance of any form of corrupt practices including extortion and fraud that we become aware of and we expect suppliers to be vigilant and proactively look for fraud, and the risk of fraud, in their business.
Health, safety and environmental management
Suppliers are expected to provide a safe and healthy workplace for all employees and you shall conduct your business in an environmentally sustainable way. Suppliers are further expected to operate in a manner that actively manages risk, conserves natural resource and protects the environment in the communities in which they operate. You should also ensure that all workers, contractors and visitors are sufficiently aware of these risks and appropriately trained on the implementation of control measures.
Monitoring / Record keeping
Suppliers must ensure that documentation is kept to demonstrate compliance with Axis Controls (NW) Ltd Code of Conduct and must provide access to that documentation upon request from Axis Controls (NW) Ltd.