Code of Conduct
Preamble
Our mission statement expresses what our company stands for today and in the
future:
We are R. A. Hessmer GmbH & Co. KG – a company with exceptional expertise in the field of metal processing.
Competence and diversity form the foundation of our performance capabilities, making us leaders in our markets. We create added value for customers and employees.
We tackle the challenges of the future together with our customers.
The requirements of our customers shape our thoughts and actions. We explore new paths and develop innovative and sustainable solutions together with our suppliers and customers.
We hold ourselves to the highest standards.
We act entrepreneurially, with confidence, courage, and a focus on performance – with the goal of being the best. The commitment and skills of every individual are the basis for this. The development of employees is of utmost importance to us. Workplace health and safety take the highest priority.
We embody shared values.
We act in the best interests of the company. Openness and mutual appreciation characterize our interactions. We rely on strong values: reliability and honesty, credibility, and integrity. We take responsibility for society.
We also commit to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the United Nations and the core labor standards of the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Specific rules and guidelines for individual situations and matters in the professional environment are clearly defined in the corresponding company agreements. These regulations are binding for all employees of R. A. Hessmer GmbH & Co. KG. Any employee who does not comply with these agreements will face appropriate consequences in line with company and legal regulations. This Code of Conduct summarizes the essential principles and rules for our actions and represents our commitment to our business partners.
Conduct in the Business Environment
Compliance with Laws and Regulations
Adherence to laws and regulations is a fundamental principle of economically responsible conduct. We comply with applicable legal prohibitions and obligations at all times, even if this results in short-term economic disadvantages or difficulties for
the company or individuals.
If national laws impose stricter regulations than those applicable at R. A. Hessmer GmbH & Co. KG, national law takes precedence.
Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest
Business decisions at our company are made solely in the best interest of the company. Conflicts of interest involving private matters or other economic or personal activities – including those of relatives or other close associates – should be avoided from the outset. If they do arise, they must be resolved transparently and in compliance with the law.
Fair Competition
R. A. Hessmer GmbH & Co. KG stands for technological expertise, innovation, customer focus, and motivated, responsible employees. These qualities form the basis of our strong reputation and sustainable economic success.
Corruption and anti-competitive practices threaten these success factors and are not tolerated (Zero Tolerance). We do not use bribery or collusion to win contracts. We prefer to forego a deal rather than violate laws. Violations will not be tolerated and will result in sanctions against those involved.
Managers, executives, and all other employees must understand the significant risks that cases of corruption or anti-competitive practices pose to the company and to them personally.
Prevention of Money Laundering
We fulfill our legal obligations to prevent money laundering and do not participate in money laundering activities.
Employees are encouraged to report suspicious financial transactions, especially involving cash, to the appropriate department for review.
Conduct Towards Colleagues and Employees
Equal Treatment and Non-Discrimination
We ensure equal opportunities and prevent discrimination in hiring, promotions, and training opportunities. We treat all employees equally, regardless of gender, age, skin color, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or worldview.
Human and Labor Rights
We respect internationally recognized human rights and support their enforcement. We strictly reject all forms of forced and child labor. The right to fair remuneration is acknowledged for all employees. Wages and benefits meet at least the minimum national legal standards or the customary levels in national economic sectors and regions.
Occupational Health and Safety
The safety and health of our employees are as important as the quality of our products and the economic success of the company.
Occupational health and safety are integral to all business processes and are considered from the planning phase onward. Every employee is responsible for promoting safety and health in their work environment and adhering to the rules.
Supervisors are obliged to guide and support employees in fulfilling these responsibilities. The same safety standards apply to subcontractors working for us as to our employees.
Conduct in Society
Sustainable Environmental and Climate Protection
Sustainable environmental and climate protection as well as resource efficiency are important goals for us.
We minimize the environmental and climate impact of our operations and design our products to contribute positively to environmental and climate protection for our customers. Each employee is responsible for using natural resources sparingly and contributing to environmental and climate protection through their individual behavior.
Donations
As an active member of society, we engage in various forms of support.
Donations and other social commitments are made solely in the company’s interest.
We do not provide financial contributions, including donations and sponsorships, to political parties or organizations, candidates for political office, or individual politicians.
Political Advocacy
We conduct political advocacy centrally, openly, and transparently.
We comply with legal requirements for lobbying and avoid any undue influence on politics and legislation.
Public Appearance and Communication
We respect the right to free speech and protect personal rights and privacy.
Employees should be aware that they may be seen as representatives of R. A. Hessmer GmbH & Co. KG, even in private. They are expected to maintain the company’s reputation and image through their behavior and public appearance, particularly with the media.
Handling Information
Reporting
R. A. Hessmer GmbH & Co. KG is committed to strong values: reliability and honesty, credibility, and integrity. Therefore, we place great importance on open and truthful reporting and communication regarding the company's business activities to employees, customers, business partners, the general public, and state institutions.
Every employee ensures that both internal and external reports, records, and other company documents are always prepared in accordance with applicable legal regulations and standards, and that they are complete, correct, timely, and systemcompliant.
Confidential Company Information/Insider Information
We take the necessary steps to protect confidential information and business documents from access and review by unauthorized colleagues and third parties in an appropriate manner.
Data Protection and Information Security
The protection of personal data, especially that of employees, customers, and suppliers, is of particular importance to us.
We only collect or process personal data when it is absolutely necessary for the completion of the respective work task or legally required. Personal data may not be collected or processed without the consent of the individual or legal authorization.
Protection of Company Property
We use the company's property and resources appropriately and responsibly, and we protect them against loss, theft, or misuse. The intellectual property of our company represents a competitive advantage for us and, as such, is a valuable asset that we defend against any unauthorized access by third parties.
We use the company’s material and immaterial assets exclusively for company purposes and not for personal purposes unless expressly authorized.
Our employees share responsibility with their supervisors to ensure that the nature and scope of business travel are always in an appropriate ratio to the respective travel purpose and are planned and carried out economically with regard to time and cost aspects.
