Code of Conduct

Our Code of Conduct is a central component of our compliance approach and forms the basis for ethical conduct within our company and along our value chains. The Code of Conduct is based on a fundamental understanding of socially responsible corporate governance. These basic rules apply equally to all of us: the Executive Board, managers, and employees. In addition, this Code of Conduct also represents our expectations of our business partners. It is binding for our suppliers and specifies the values and standards we expect. Care is taken to ensure that compliance with these guidelines does not result in any disadvantages for employees or business partners.

The code is based on internationally recognized principles and institutions, including:

The United Nations (UN) Universal Declaration of Human Rights
The OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises
The core labor standards of the International Labor Organization (ILO)
The United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights

For our suppliers, the Code covers in particular: human rights and working conditions, health and safety, the environment, energy and climate protection, business integrity and compliance, dealing with conflict minerals, responsibility in the supply chain, obligations, and communication and confirmation of compliance.

For our employees, the Code serves as a code of conduct with a focus on: human rights and working conditions, health and safety, the environment, energy and climate protection, and business integrity and compliance.

By adhering to this Code, we ensure that ethical conduct, transparency, and responsibility are practiced in all areas of our activities – both internally and externally.