Code of conduct

Introduction

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to outline the ethical principles and guidelines that govern the behavior of all employees, contractors, and partners of DEVEGA. We are fully aware of the responsibility we have towards customers, suppliers, partners, shareholders, employees, the environment and the communities in which we work. Our commitment to operating with integrity, honesty, and professionalism is the foundation of a healthy business, and this Code of Conduct ensures that we maintain these standards in all aspects of our business.

Our ambition is to carry out our activity with integrity, in all areas in which DEVEGA is present. For us, not only the results are important, but also the way we get them.
We expect all our employees, shareholders, suppliers, collaborators and partners, meaning everyone who has a business relationship with DEVEGA, to adhere to the same ethical standards.

Compliance with Laws and Regulations

All employees, contractors, and partners must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards in the regions where they operate. This includes, but is not limited to, EU Law, transportation regulations, environmental laws, labor laws, and health and safety regulations.

Trade Regulations

All employees, contractors, and partners shall comply with all applicable trade and import/export regulations, including but not limited to sanctions and embargoes that apply to their activities.

Unfair competition

The Collaborator/DEVEGA/Employees must comply with competition laws and regulations applicable in the field.

Money laundering and financial records

All employees, contractors, and partners shall comply with applicable laws and regulations to combat money laundering and activities associated with this crime. They must keep financial reports and records in accordance with international regulations and laws.

Human rights and fair labor practices

All parties must uphold the provisions of the United Nations Global Compact, the United Nations
Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as the 1998 International Labor Organization Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, in accordance with national laws and practices. These things apply in particular in the following cases:

Children and work

DEVEGA, contractors, and partners shall not employ persons who are not of legal employment age in any country or local jurisdiction. If no minimum employment age is defined, it will be set at 16. Employees under the age of 18 must only perform work in accordance with legal requirements (eg. in relation to working hours and working conditions) and subject to any educational or training requirements.

Forced labor

All employees, contractors, and partners must not use any form of forced, coerced or involuntary labor. All work performed must be voluntary. Employees must be allowed to maintain control of their identification documents (eg. identity cards, passports, work permits or any other personal legal documents). They must ensure that the employees do not pay taxes or make any payment related to obtaining a job throughout the hiring process and the employment period. They is responsible for paying all fees and expenses (eg. licenses and fees) related to the workers, if legally required. Punishment, mental and/or physical coercion are prohibited. Disciplinary policies and procedures must be clearly defined and communicated to employees prior to signing the employment contract.

Compensation and Working hours

All employees, contractors, and partners must comply with all applicable national laws and mandatory industry standards regarding working hours, overtime, days off / public holidays, wages and benefits. They will make payment to employees in a timely manner and clearly convey the basis on which employees are paid, while ensuring the correct payment of all due taxes and duties.

Deductions from wages as a disciplinary measure are prohibited unless permitted by law.

Freedom of association and collective bargaining

All employees shall be free to join or not join a trade union/employee union of their choice, without threats or intimidation.

All employees, contractors, and partners shall recognize and respect the right of employees to bargain collectively, in accordance with applicable laws.

Health and Safety

DEVEGA is committed to providing a safe and healthy work environment for all employees, contractors, and partners. All individuals must adhere to company safety policies and procedures, as well as any relevant local, regional, national, european health and safety regulations.

All employees, contractors, and partners shall strive to implement health and safety standards at the workplace at a high level, by applying a pro-health and safety approach, but also by recommending the implementation of a health and safety management system occupational security.

All parties must comply with the applicable health and safety regulations at work and provide a safe and health-friendly work environment (physical and mental), in order to maintain the health of employees but also to protect third parties and prevent accidents, injuries and illnesses related to the work environment. This includes regular workplace risk assessments and implementing appropriate risk control and taking necessary precautions. Employees must have adequate (and regular) occupational health and safety education and training.

Environmental Responsibility

We recognize our responsibility to minimize the environmental impact of our operations. All employees, contractors, and partners must strive to conserve resources, reduce waste, and prevent pollution in accordance with company policies and applicable laws.

All employees, contractors, and partners must comply with all applicable environmental laws, regulations and standards, and implement an effective system for identifying and eliminating potential environmental hazards.

We expect our business partners to make efforts to support DEVEGA's sustainability goals. In this regard, we also expect all our collaborators to take appropriate account of environmental and climate protection in their own operations, for example by setting concrete measures and objectives.

Respect and Fair Treatment

DEVEGA is dedicated to fostering a workplace environment that values diversity, inclusion, and respect. All employees, contractors, and partners are expected to treat others with dignity and respect, free from harassment, discrimination, or intimidation of any kind.

All parties must promote an inclusive work environment that capitalizes on the diversity of its
employees. They must not discriminate or tolerate discrimination based on gender, race, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, nationality or any other characteristic protected by law and not only.

Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest occurs when a person has a private / personal interest that could influence their decisions. Such conflict of interest situations include: a relationship of kinship / blood or marriage, partnership, business partnership or joint investment between two or more persons (both on the part of DEVEGA and on the part of the Collaborator). All parties shall disclose any actual or potential conflict of interest with the concerned partner.

All employees, contractors, and partners must avoid situations that may create a conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest should be disclosed to management for guidance and resolution.

Confidentiality and Data Protection

All employees, contractors, and partners are required to maintain the confidentiality of company information, customer data, and other sensitive information. All individuals must adhere to company data protection policies and any applicable privacy laws and regulations. For additional information, also check DEVEGA’s GDPR Policy.

Anti-Bribery and Corruption

DEVEGA has a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery and corruption. All employees, contractors, and partners must never engage in or tolerate any form of bribery, corruption, or unethical business practices. Any attempt of this type should be disclosed to management for guidance and resolution.

All parties shall not offer or promise to provide things of value or other advantages to improperly influence an official act or to secure an improper advantage in the business relationship.

Business continuity planning

DEVEGA and its partners must be prepared for any interruption of its activity (eg. Natural disasters, terrorism, software viruses, diseases, pandemics, infectious diseases, etc.). This preparation includes plans in the event of any disaster/event to protect, as much as possible, employees, partners and the environment from the effects of possible events.

Quality of Service

We are committed to providing the highest quality of service to our customers. All employees, contractors, and partners must consistently strive to meet or exceed customer expectations and maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.

Reporting Violations

All employees, contractors, and partners have a responsibility to report any suspected or actual violations of this Code of Conduct, company policies, or applicable laws and regulations. DEVEGA will not tolerate any form of retaliation against individuals who report violations in good faith.

Conclusion

Adherence to this Code of Conduct is essential to maintaining the reputation and success of DEVEGA. All employees, contractors, and partners are expected to uphold these principles and guidelines in their daily work activities. Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contractual relationships.

DEVEGA reserves the right to modify, update, or amend this Code of Conduct at any time. All employees, contractors, and partners are responsible for staying informed about the current version of the Code of Conduct and ensuring their actions align with its principles and guidelines.