1. Committing to the Highest, Ethical and Legal Standards
The RMS Code of Conduct (hereinafter referred to as the "Code") applies company-wide and worldwide to all RMS employees, officers, directors, as well as to employees of our majority-owned subsidiaries and joint ventures. We expect our agents, independent contractors, consultants, and employees of minority-owned joint ventures to act consistently with the principles outlined in this Code.
Employees are expected to adhere to the ethical and legal standards applicable in the countries where RMS conducts business. When faced with conflicting standards, such as between the Code and local law, the stricter standard shall prevail. Any failure to comply with the law will be considered a violation of the Code.
RMS is committed to protecting employees who, in good faith, report issues, seek advice, or raise concerns. Our anti-retaliation policy ensures that no employee will suffer undue harm for reporting a Code violation or cooperating with an investigation. If an employee believes they are the victim of retaliatory action, they should contact their manager or supervisor.
Any failure to comply with the standards outlined in this Code will result in appropriate discipline, up to and including termination of employment, referral for criminal prosecution, and restitution for any losses or damages resulting from the violation. The extent of discipline will be based on factors such as the severity and frequency of the offense.
2. Fostering a Respectful Workplace
Diversity and Equal Employment Opportunities
RMS is dedicated to maintaining a diverse workforce and fostering a culture of mutual respect and appreciation for individual differences. We provide equal employment opportunities without discrimination, ensuring that recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, transferring, training, corrective action, and termination practices are based exclusively on an individual's qualifications and ability to perform the job.
Harassment and Workplace Respect
Respect for one another is fundamental to RMS's culture. We do not tolerate any form of harassment or intimidating behavior, including physical, emotional, or verbal abuse. Harassment that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment is strictly prohibited. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
Corporate Social Responsibility
RMS takes seriously its responsibility to the communities it serves. We believe in fair compensation for employees in compliance with local laws and promote the well-being of employees, customers, and the communities in which they work and live. We respect the rights of all people and hold our suppliers to the same high standard of social responsibility. RMS does not engage in the use of forced or child labor and does not condone the mistreatment of any individuals conducting business with or on behalf of RMS.
3. Promoting Safety, Health and a Sustainable Environment
Commitment to a Safe and Healthy Workplace
RMS places the highest value on the safety and well-being of its employees and the communities and environments in which it operates. Each employee is responsible for complying with applicable health and safety laws and following the Company's safety policies, practices, and procedures. If an employee observes conditions or practices that could threaten health and safety, they should report their concerns immediately to their supervisor or relevant safety representative.
Product Quality and Safety
RMS complies with all laws and regulations concerning product quality and safety. We are committed to product safety throughout the entire lifecycle, from concept and manufacture through customer use and disposal, recycle, or reuse. Employees should not take any action that could jeopardize customer confidence in the quality and safety of our products.
Commitment to Sustainability and Protecting the Environment
RMS is committed to providing and protecting clean water, safe food, abundant energy, and healthy environments. We manage our global operations with concern for the health, safety, and prosperity of employees, customers, communities, and the environment.
4. Preventing Bribery and Corruption
RMS strives to conduct business through proper means and actions, avoiding any behavior perceived as bribery or corruption. Bribery is prohibited, including payments to government officials to gain improper business advantages. RMS's anti-bribery policies also prohibit "facilitating" payments to government officials to expedite routine government actions.
In commercial dealings, employees should never offer or accept anything of value to improperly obtain business or an unfair advantage. RMS encourages employees to be active in their communities but clarifies that personal views and political actions are not those of the Company.
5. Competing Fairly
Fair Competition
RMS believes in free competition and strives to outdo competitors through honest and fair business practices. We avoid seeking unfair advantages or misrepresenting facts about our business or products. Employees should not have inappropriate contact with competitors without supervisor approval.
Gathering Competitor Information
Keeping up with competitive developments is important, but employees must respect trade secrets and avoid inappropriate or illegal means of gathering information. Espionage, burglary, wiretapping, and stealing are prohibited. RMS encourages participation in trade associations for legitimate purposes but prohibits discussions that hinder free competition.
6. Protecting and Properly Using RMS Assets and Property
Physical Assets
Each employee is responsible for conserving and protecting RMS's assets, including financial assets, trade secrets, and physical property. Resources should be used exclusively for business purposes, and theft, loss, abuse, or misuse must be prevented.
Confidential and Proprietary Information
RMS places great value on its confidential and proprietary information. Employees must protect and guard against unauthorized use or disclosure. Unauthorized disclosure could destroy value and give unfair advantage to others. Employees should ensure confidentiality agreements are in place and limit disclosure to those with a business need to know.
7. Ensuring Data Privacy and Data Security
Information and Data Security
RMS maintains sensitive data and strict policies to protect it. All employees are responsible for complying with data privacy and security policies. Only employees with a need to use confidential data will be granted access.
Customer and Supplier Information
RMS has an obligation to protect the privacy of customer and supplier data. Only employees with a business need should access or use this information, taking great care to protect its security and sensitivity.
Employee Privacy
RMS respects and protects employee personal information, requiring employees to handle co-worker information with care to protect their privacy.
8. Keeping Accurate Financial and Business Records
Fair, Full, and Accurate Financial Accounting and Recordkeeping
RMS's accounting records and financial statements should accurately reflect transactions. False or misleading entries are prohibited. Accounting records must conform to legal requirements and generally accepted accounting principles.
Financial Reporting and Disclosure
Financial disclosures must be accurate and timely. Willful or knowingly false statements or omissions are prohibited. Senior officers and finance and accounting professionals play a crucial role in ensuring fair, full, complete, accurate, objective, relevant, timely, and understandable financial records and disclosures.
Managing RMS Records
RMS records must be accurate and never include false or misleading information. Employees must follow records management guidelines when creating, maintaining, or destroying business records. All records generated in connection with RMS business are the property of RMS. In the event of litigation or investigation, certain records may be placed under a "legal hold," requiring their preservation.
This Code of Conduct reflects RMS's commitment to ethical, legal, and responsible business practices. All employees are expected to read, understand, and comply with its provisions.