Code of Conduct

Introduction

Respect for and compliance with the law takes a high priority for BSB and complying with the various legal and regulatory frameworks that apply in the jurisdictions where it operates, BSB can protect its integrity and reputation. Together with CSR this is a focal point for BSB to operate in a proper manner both according to employees, suppliers and customers

Purpose of the Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct is a collection of rules and policy statements intended to assist employees in their daily decision making. It sets forth guidelines for how to behave in relation to customers, suppliers, the authorities and other stakeholders.

The Code of Conduct applies to all entities and employees in BSB, and it is important that every employee understands and complies with the Code of Conduct. To ensure that every employee is familiar with the Code of Conduct, each manager is responsible for seeing that it is known and adhered to within their respective team.

Violation of the Code of Conduct

Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct may expose employees and BSB to reputational damage as well as to legal and regulatory sanctions. Disciplinary proceedings in case of severe compliance misconduct may result in a reprimand, fine or dismissal.

Code of Ethics

BSB Code of ethics sets the standard for how we operate. In all relations honesty, integrity and professionalism is key as well as objectivity and confidentiality. Our stakeholders are able to trust in BSB and how we act both internally and externally.

Human rights

BSB adheres to all relevant laws and regulations aimed at the protection and promotion of human rights globally and at work.

BSB sees its employees as its greatest asset. Each employee is valuable and together they form the foundation for the BSB’s success.

It is important that employees treat everyone with dignity and respect. BSB does not accept discrimination based upon ethnic background, gender, religion, age or sexual orientation. Discriminatory behavior or harassment of any kind is not tolerated.

We train our employees in human rights, respect their right to freedom of association, and recognize the right to be member of a union or other collective bargaining group.

Child labor

BSB supports all efforts to eliminate child labor in the long term. In the meantime, we will ensure that the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is respected in all activities, we take part in.

BSB requires a minimum age of 15 years for employees, and children aged 15-18 can never do strenuous or potentially hazardous work tasks. Moreover, children aged 15-18 must always be supervised and supported with training and frequent dialogues with their superiors. The best interest of the child is always a priority.

Anti-corruption, bribery and fraud

BSB condemns corruption in all its forms and does not tolerate it in its business or with its business partners. If employees are involved in bribery or corruption, they may find themselves personally criminally liable and subject to disciplinary action.

The three following principles apply:

• BSB and its employees do not accept or solicit bribes in any form.
• BSB does not make, and will not accept, facilitation payments or kickbacks of any kind.
• BSB’s employees do not give or receive gifts above token value apart from gifts given or received in specific situations.

The line between right and wrong can sometimes be difficult to draw because of variations in local culture, customs and habits. If in doubt, employees should refer their concerns to their manager.

BSB does not tolerate any form of fraud, including theft, embezzlement, money laundering or misuse of the company’s property.

Gifts and entertainment

From time to time in the normal course of business relations, gifts (including entertainment) are offered, given and received. All employees must exercise great care with respect to gifts to and from customers, suppliers or others with whom they come into professional contact.

Dealing with confidential information

All employees have a legal duty to safeguard confidential information, regardless of whether it is obtained from customers, associates, suppliers or sources within BSB. Confidential information must not be disclosed to third parties without the owner’s consent.

Relations with suppliers

BSB wants to help promote social and environmental improvements at our suppliers.

BSB expects that our suppliers comply with national laws and internationally recognized standards and conventions for ethical, environmental and social conditions.

Relations with customers

The aim is to ensure that customers trust the BSB and experience value-creating relations.

All communications through all channels to all target groups should be open, truthful and unambiguous.

Managing complaints

The Group must deal with complaints from customers or former customers promptly and fairly and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. BSB has developed procedures to support this process.

Whistleblower

From the 1st of March 2023 a whistleblower channel will be available for employees of BSB. This channel can be used to report wrongdoings such as corruption, abuse of power, discrimination and harassment internally before authorities or the media are contacted.