Code of Conduct as the basis of governance in CR issues
In 2007, Trelleborg initiated the training of the organization on a broad front regarding the company’s Code of Conduct, our central tool in the areas of the environment, health and safety and ethics. Combined with our rules for corporate governance and our policies, our Code of Conduct forms a framework for our business. The Code applies to all employees, managers and Board members in the Trelleborg Group, in all markets, always and without exception.
During the year, salaried employees – managers at all levels, sales employees and other employees with computer access – underwent a web-based training program. The program is concluded by a test and with certification that the participant understands and accepts the Code of Conduct.
In 2007, approximately 80 percent of this global target group successfully completed web-based training. In the first quarter of 2008, the rest of the target group is being trained with the help of conventional classroom instruction.
Trelleborg’s Code of Conduct is based on internationally recognized conventions and guidelines, such as the UN conventions on human rights, ILO’s conventions, OECD guidelines and the UN Global Compact.
Self-evaluation based on the Code of Conduct, which includes Trelleborg’s Environment, Health and Safety Policy, is the basis of internal work on CR issues (see below).
Within certain defined areas, internal self-evaluation is reinforced by external audits such as third-party audits in relation to the Code of Conduct and ISO 14000 audits. The third-party audits in relation to the Code of Conduct are conducted at selected units on a regular basis to verify the current situation and ensure procedures. In 2006, Trelleborg Automotive’s plant and operation in Wuxi, China, was reviewed in relation to the existing Code of Conduct and international practice. The results were used in work to develop and clarify the Code of Conduct. In March 2008, a corresponding audit was conducted in Trelleborg Automotive’s plant in Toluca, Mexico.
In addition, the Group has a whistle-blower policy that was published in conjunction with the Code of Conduct, which means that every employee has the right to report suspicions of serious breaches of laws or regulations without any repercussions whatsoever.
Trelleborg’s CR reporting is conducted in accordance with the Global Reporting Initiative guidelines, version G3. The report encompasses operations within the Trelleborg Group that are significant from a sustainability perspective. This also includes joint-venture companies. This means that the report covers all 125 production units, corresponding to 89 percent of all employees. (Click on figure for larger view)
