A Message From Our CEO
Though every company in our family serves transportation in a distinct way, customers benefit from the promise that comes from the collective power of the whole Clarience Technologies family – our commitment to provide visionary technology for all transportation that keeps the world moving forward. Yet it’s not just a promise to customers that drives our success – it’s also the responsibility we all have to Do the Right Thing, every day, in every place where we operate and live. The purpose of this Code of Ethics and Business Conduct is to help each of us understand what it means to do the right thing in various situations. Our owners, customers and employees trust each of us and our companies to safely deliver high-quality products that are both dependable and innovative while acting ethically and as good stewards of our many resources. We each can propel this trust by acting with integrity in every action – from the way we innovate to the way we conduct ourselves in our roles. Whether you work for Truck-Lite, Rigid, Lumitec, Ecco, Code 3, LED Autolamps, Fleetilla or Davco, you are a vital member of our family. We believe in you and your ability to do good work and preserve our good name. We also believe that sometimes we all need help to figure out what’s right. That’s why we have our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct – to outline to employees at every one of our companies how we expect you to approach all of your decisions and working relationships ethically and with integrity. Reading the Code and using it often will help you align your every action with our values, our policies and the laws that apply to us and our various businesses. If you have questions about the Code, or if you become aware of behaviors that violate it, speak up immediately – it’s always the right thing to do. Integrity isn’t optional. It’s foundational. Thank you for your continued support.
Purpose and Overview
Our business has always been about visibility. We believe the more you see, the more you know, the safer you are – and the more you can achieve. That’s true for our customers – it’s also true for all of the employees that work for any Clarience company, and the way each of us work. The more we all know about working with integrity, the more good each of us can do for the Company and our customers.
A note about terminology – all references in this Code to “Company employees” or “our employees” or “Company” or “Clarience” are meant to refer to all of us – no matter which Clarience company you work for.
We are all expected to work with integrity, but how can you be sure that the choices you make each day are the right ones? It isn’t always easy. We understand how complicated work can be, especially when so many laws and rules apply to our business. We also understand that everyone needs help from time to time to do what’s right.
That’s why we have our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct (“the Code”). It’s your most important resource in this effort. It is designed with you in mind – a vital resource that will help you:
- Comply with applicable laws, regulations and Company policies.
- Promote integrity and the highest standards of ethical conduct
- Address common ethical situations you could encounter in your work.
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Avoid even the appearance of anything improper in connection
with our Company’s business
activities.
Complying With Laws and Regulations Clarience is committed to compliance with all laws, rules and regulations that apply to each of our businesses. It is impossible to anticipate every question you may have or situation you might face so, in addition to the Code, Clarience also has other resources that can be of help. These additional resources are listed throughout the Code. As always, we rely on you to use good judgment and to seek help when you need it.
We operate in multiple countries, so it’s important to be aware of different laws and customs that may apply. While we respect the norms of our customers, business partners and coworkers throughout the world, all employees must, at a minimum, comply with the standards and principles in this Code. If any provision of our Code conflicts with a local law or requirement, you should seek guidance from the Legal Department.
Accountability and Discipline
Violating our Code, our policies or the law or encouraging others to do so, exposes our Company to liability and puts our reputation at risk. If you see or suspect a violation, report it.
Anyone who violates our Code will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of their employment. You should also understand that violations of laws or regulations may also result in legal proceedings and penalties including, in some circumstances, criminal prosecution.
Waivers and Changes to the Code
On rare occasions, limited waivers of the Code may be necessary. Any waiver of this Code for directors or executive officers may be made only by the Board of Directors or a committee of the Board and will be promptly disclosed to owners as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Who Must Follow Our Code
All employees of Clarience and its subsidiaries, including executives, corporate officers and members of our Board of Directors, are required to read, understand and follow our Code.
Consultants, contractors, agents, suppliers, vendors, temporary employees and other business partners who serve as an extension of any Clarience company are also expected to follow the spirit of our Code, as well as any applicable contractual provisions.
If you supervise our business partners, you are responsible for communicating our standards and ensuring that they are understood. If a business partner fails to meet our ethics and compliance expectations or their related contractual obligations, it may result in the termination of their contract.
Our Responsibilities
Each of us must take responsibility for acting with integrity, even when this means making difficult choices. Meeting our responsibilities is what enables us to succeed and grow.
Employee Responsibilities
Every employee has a responsibility to:
- Always act in a professional, honest and ethical manner when conducting business on behalf of the Company.
- Know the information in the Code and Company policies and pay particular attention to the topics that apply to your specific job responsibilities.
- Complete all required employee training in a timely manner and keep up-to-date on current standards and expectations.
- Report concerns about possible violations of the Code, our policies or the law to your manager, an executive or any of the resources listed in this Code.
- Cooperate and tell the truth when responding to an investigation or audit, and never alter or destroy records in response to an investigation or when an investigation is
Additional Responsibilities of Managers
Managers of each Clarience company are expected to meet the following additional responsibilities:
- Lead by example. As a manager, you are expected to exemplify high standards of ethical business conduct.
- Help create a work environment that values mutual respect and open communication.
- Be a resource for others. Communicate often with employees, contractors, suppliers and other business partners about how the Code and other policies apply to their daily work.
- Be proactive. Look for opportunities to discuss and address ethical dilemmas and challenging situations with others.
- Delegate responsibly. Never delegate authority to any individual whom you believe may engage in unlawful conduct or unethical activities.
- Respond quickly and effectively. When a concern is brought to your attention, ensure that it is treated seriously and with due respect for everyone involved.
- Be aware of the limits of your authority. Do not take any action that exceeds your authority. If you are ever unsure of what is appropriate (and what isn’t), discuss the matter with your manager.
Remember: No reason, including the desire to meet business goals, should ever be an excuse for violating our Code, our policies or the law.
Do the Right Thing
I’m a manager and not clear on what my obligations are if someone comes to me with an accusation – and what if it involves a senior manager?
No matter who the allegation involves, you must report it. Clarience provides several avenues for reporting concerns. If for any reason you are uncomfortable making a report to a particular person, you may talk to any of the other resources listed in the Code.
I observed misconduct in an area not under my supervision. Am I still required to report the issue?
You are chiefly responsible for employees and business partners under your supervision, but all employees of any Clarience company are required to report misconduct. As a leader, you are especially obliged to be proactive. The best approach would be to talk first with the manager who oversees the area where the problem is occurring, but if this isn’t feasible or effective, you should contact another resource described in our Code.
Making Good Decisions
Making the right decision is not always easy. There may be times when you’ll be under pressure or unsure of what to do. Always remember that when you have a tough choice to make, you’re not alone. There are resources available to help you.
One More Thing …
We value your feedback. If you have suggestions for ways to enhance our Code, our policies or our resources to better address a particular issue you have encountered, bring them forward. Promoting an ethical Clarience is a responsibility we all share.
Asking Questions and Reporting Concerns
If you see or suspect any violation of our Code, our policies or the law, or if you have a question about what to do, talk to your manager.
If you’re uncomfortable speaking with your manager, there are other resources available to help you:
- Contact another member of management.
- Contact Human Resources or the Legal Department.
-
Contact the Ethics and Compliance Hotline:
By telephone: 877 453 6651 (United States – English)
877 453 6651 (United States – Spanish)
800 952 513 (Australia)
400 120 0195 (China)
0 800 91 49 13 (France)
0800 0003143 (Germany)
800 099 1722 (Mexico)
0800 069 8021 (United Kingdom) -
Online: clarience.ethicspoint.com.
Clarience will make every reasonable attempt
to ensure that your concerns are addressed appropriately
Do the Right Thing
What if someone misused the Ethics and Compliance Hotline, made an anonymous call and falsely accused someone of wrongdoing?
Experience has shown that the Ethics and Compliance Hotline is rarely used for malicious purposes, but it is important to know that we will follow up on reports and anyone who uses the Hotline in bad faith to spread falsehoods or threaten others or with the intent to unjustly damage another person’s reputation, will be subject to disciplinary action.
Our Commitment to Non-retaliation
We will not tolerate any retaliation against any employee who, in good faith, asks questions, makes a report of actions that may be inconsistent with our Code, our policies or the law or who assists in an investigation of suspected wrongdoing. Reporting “in good faith” means making a genuine attempt to provide honest, complete and accurate information, even if it later proves to be unsubstantiated or mistaken.
Do the Right Thing
suspect there may be some unethical behavior going on in my business unit involving my manager. I know I should report my suspicions, and I’m thinking about using the Ethics and Compliance Hotline, but I’m concerned about retaliation.
You are required to report misconduct and, in your situation, using the Ethics and Compliance Hotline is a good option. We will investigate your suspicions and may need to talk to you to gather additional information. After you make the report, if you believe you are experiencing any retaliation, you should report it. We take claims of retaliation seriously. Reports of retaliation will be thoroughly investigated and, if they are true, retaliators will be disciplined.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Clarience helps bring together employees with a wide variety of backgrounds, skills and cultures. Combining such a wealth of talent and resources creates the diverse and dynamic teams that consistently drive our results.
Our colleagues, job applicants and business partners are entitled to respect. We are committed to ensuring that they feel welcomed and valued and that they are given opportunities to grow, contribute and develop with us. To uphold that commitment, we support laws prohibiting discrimination and provide equal opportunity for employment, income and advancement in all our departments, programs and worksites.
This means we base employment decisions solely on qualifications, demonstrated skills and achievements – and never on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation or gender identity), national origin, age, political opinion, marital status, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law.
Do the Right Thing
- Treat others respectfully and professionally.
- Promote diversity in hiring and other employment decisions.
- Do not discriminate against others on the basis of any other characteristic protected by law or Company policy.
Watch Out For
- Comments, jokes or materials, including emails, which others might consider offensive.
- Inappropriate bias when judging others. If you supervise others, judge them on performance. Use objective, quantifiable standards and avoid introducing unrelated considerations into your decisions.
Do the Right Thing
One of my coworkers sends emails containing jokes and derogatory comments about certain nationalities. They make me uncomfortable, but no one else has spoken up about them. What should I do?
You should notify your manager or Human Resources. Sending these kinds of jokes violates our values as well as our policies that relate to the use of email and our standards on diversity, harassment and discrimination. By doing nothing you are condoning discrimination and tolerating beliefs that can seriously erode the team environment that we have all worked to create.
A Harassment-free Workplace
We all have the right to work in an environment that is free from intimidation, harassment, bullying and abusive conduct. Verbal or physical conduct by any employee that harasses another, disrupts another’s work performance or creates an intimidating, offensive, abusive or hostile work environment will not be tolerated.
Sexual Harassment
A common form of harassment is sexual harassment, which in general occurs when
- Actions that are unwelcome are made a condition of employment or used as the basis for employment decisions, such as a request for a date, a sexual favor or other similar conduct of a sexual nature.
- An intimidating, offensive or hostile environment is created by unwelcome sexual advances, insulting jokes or other offensive verbal or physical behavior of a sexual nature.
Do the Right Thing
- Promote a positive attitude toward policies designed to build a safe, ethical and professional workplace.
- Help each other by speaking out when a coworker’s conduct makes others uncomfortable.
- Demonstrate professionalism. Do not visit inappropriate internet sites or display sexually explicit or offensive pictures.
- Report all incidents of harassment and intimidation that may compromise our ability to work together and be productive.
Watch Out For
- Threatening remarks, obscene phone calls, stalking or any other form of harassment.
- Sexual harassment or other unwelcome verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
- The display of sexually explicit or offensive pictures or other materials.
- Sexual or offensive jokes or comments (explicit or by innuendo) and leering.
- Verbal abuse, threats or taunting.
Q&A
I frequently hear a colleague making derogatory comments to another coworker. These comments make me feel uncomfortable, but I feel like it’s none of my business, and the person they’re directed at will speak up if they are offended. Should I ignore this?
No, you shouldn’t. It’s up to each of us to help maintain a work environment where people feel welcomed, valued and included. Since you’re aware of this situation, you have a responsibility to speak up about it. If you feel you can, speak to your colleague and ask that this behavior stop. If you feel you can’t or the comments continue, talk to your manager or another resource.
Health and Safety
Ensuring safety is an integral part of everything we do. Each of us is responsible for acting in a way that protects ourselves and others. No matter what job you do or where you do it, we count on every employee to actively promote a safe and healthy workplace and report any situations that may pose a health, safety or security risk.
Reporting risks and hazards is not just the right thing to do, it’s a requirement, because a failure to speak up about an incident, or to participate in an investigation into an incident, can have serious repercussions for you, for our Company and for every employee on the job, every day. Do your part to keep everyone in the Clarience family injury-free.
Alcohol and Drugs
While at work or on business for any Clarience company:
- You should be always ready to carry out your work duties – never impaired.
- Do not use, possess or be under the influence of illegal drugs or any substance that could interfere with a safe and effective work environment or harm our Company’s reputation.
Workplace Violence
Violence of any kind has no place at any Clarience company. We won’t tolerate:
- Intimidating, threatening or hostile behavior.
- Causing physical injury to another.
- Acts of vandalism, arson, sabotage or other criminal activities.
- The carrying of firearms or other weapons onto Company property unless you are authorized to do so.
Do the Right Thing
- Follow the safety, security and health rules and practices that apply to your job.
- Maintain a neat, safe working environment by keeping workstations, aisles and other workspaces free from obstacles, wires and other potential hazards.
- Notify your manager immediately about any unsafe equipment, or any situation that could pose a threat to health or safety or damage the environment. As an employee, you have the right and the responsibility to stop any work if you feel your safety is at risk.
- Cooperate with any investigations into incidents.
Watch Out For
- Unsafe practices or work conditions.
- Carelessness in enforcing security standards, such as facility entry procedures and password protocols
Q&A
I’ve noticed some practices in my area that don’t seem safe. Who can I speak to? I’m new here and don’t want to be considered a troublemaker.
Discuss your concerns with your manager or Human Resources. There may be very good reasons for the practices, but it’s important to remember that raising a concern about safety does not make you a troublemaker, but a responsible employee concerned about the safety of others.
Q&A
A subcontractor commits a violation of our standards. Are subcontractors expected to follow the same health, safety and security policies and procedures as employees?
Absolutely. Managers are responsible for ensuring that subcontractors and other business partners at work on Clarience premises understand and comply with all applicable laws and regulations governing the particular facility, as well as with additional requirements that any Clarience company may impose.
Financial Integrity
The accuracy and completeness of our disclosures and business records are essential to making informed decisions and to supporting investors, regulators and others. Our books and records must accurately and fairly reflect our transactions in sufficient detail and in accordance with our accounting practices and policies.
Some employees have special responsibilities in this area, but all of us contribute to the process of recording business results or maintaining records. Ensure that the information we record is accurate, timely, complete and maintained in a manner that is consistent with our internal controls, disclosure controls and our legal obligations.
Records Management
Documents should only be disposed of in compliance with Clarience policies and should never be destroyed or hidden. You must never conceal wrongdoing or permit others to do so. Never destroy documents in response to – or in anticipation of – an investigation or audit. If you have any questions or concerns about retaining or destroying corporate records, please contact the Legal Department.
Financial Integrity
The accuracy and completeness of our disclosures and business records are essential to making informed decisions and to supporting investors, regulators and others. Our books and records must accurately and fairly reflect our transactions in sufficient detail and in accordance with our accounting practices and policies.
Some employees have special responsibilities in this area, but all of us contribute to the process of recording business results or maintaining records. Ensure that the information we record is accurate, timely, complete and maintained in a manner that is consistent with our internal controls, disclosure controls and our legal obligations.
Records Management
Documents should only be disposed of in compliance with Clarience policies and should never be destroyed or hidden. You must never conceal wrongdoing or permit others to do so. Never destroy documents in response to – or in anticipation of – an investigation or audit.
If you have any questions or concerns about retaining or destroying corporate records, please contact the Legal Department.
Do the Right Thing
- Create business records that accurately reflect the truth of the underlying event or transaction. Be guided by the principles of transparency and truthfulness.
- Write carefully in all of your business communications. Write as though someday the records you create may become public documents.
- Records that are not clear and complete or that obscure the true nature of any action.
- Undisclosed or unrecorded funds, assets or liabilities.
Watch Out For
- Records that are not clear and complete or that obscure the true nature of any action.
- Undisclosed or unrecorded funds, assets or liabilities.
- Improper destruction of documents.
Q&A
quarter reporting period, my manager asked me to record additional expenses, even though I had not yet received the invoices from the supplier and the work has not yet started. I agreed to do it, since we were all sure that the work would be completed in the next quarter. Now I wonder if I did the right thing.
No, you didn’t. Costs must be recorded in the period in which they are incurred. The work was not started and the costs were not incurred by the date you recorded the transaction. It was therefore a misrepresentation and, depending on the circumstances, could amount to fraud.
Company Assets
Each of us is entrusted with Company assets and are personally responsible for using them with care and protecting them from fraud, waste and abuse. Personal use of Company assets is discouraged, but where permitted, should be kept to a minimum and have no adverse effect on productivity and the work environment.
Physical and Electronic Assets
Physical assets include the facilities of any Clarience company, materials and equipment. Electronic assets include computer and communication systems, software and hardware. Files and records are also Company assets, and we have a responsibility to ensure their confidentiality, security and integrity.
Be aware that any information you create, share or download onto Company systems belongs to Clarience and the company for which you work, and we have the right to review and monitor system use at any time, without notifying you, to the extent permitted by law.
Do the Right Thing
- Use Company assets to carry out your job responsibilities, never for activities that are improper or illegal.
- Observe good physical security practices, especially those related to badging in and out of our facilities.
- Be a good steward of our electronic resources and systems, and practice good cybersecurity: – Do not share passwords or allow other people, including friends and family, to use Company resources. – Do not use Company equipment or information systems to create, store or send content that others might find offensive. – Only use software that has been properly licensed. The copying or use of unlicensed or “pirated” software on Company computers or other equipment to conduct Company business is strictly prohibited. If you have any questions about whether or not a particular use of software is licensed, contact the IT Department. – Lock your workstation when you step away and log off our systems when you complete your work for the day. – Beware of phishing attempts – use caution in opening email attachments from unknown senders or clicking on suspicious links.
Watch Out For
- Requests to borrow or use Company equipment without approval.
- Excessive use of Company resources for personal purposes.
- Unknown individuals without proper credentials entering our facilities
Confidential Information and Intellectual Property
The Clarience company for which you work relies on you to be vigilant and protect confidential information and intellectual property. This means keeping it secure, limiting access to those who have a need to know in order to do their job and only using it for authorized purposes.
Be aware that the obligation to restrict your use of Clarience confidential information and intellectual property continues even after your employment ends.
Confidential information includes:
- Business and marketing plans
- Company initiatives (existing, planned, proposed or developing)
- Customer lists
- Trade secrets and discoveries
- Methods, know-how and techniques
- Innovations and designs
- Systems, software and technology
- Patents, trademarks and copyrights Clarience commits substantial resources to technology development and innovation. The creation and protection of our intellectual property rights are critical to our business. Contact the Legal Department if you receive any statements or questions regarding: (1) the scope of intellectual property rights; (2) the applicability of the rights of any Clarience company to another company’s products; or (3) the applicability of a third party’s intellectual property rights to the intellectual property rights or products of any Clarience company. Protecting the Confidential Information of Others We each play a role in securing the proprietary information of each Clarience company as well as the confidential information entrusted to us by our customers, suppliers and other business partners.
Do the Right Thing
- Promptly disclose to Company management any inventions or other IP that you create while you are employed by any Clarience company.
- Properly label confidential information to indicate how it should be handled, distributed and destroyed.
- Use confidential information and intellectual property only for legitimate business purposes. Store it on Company information systems and only share it with authorized parties.
- Understand the expectations of customers and business partners regarding the protection, use and disclosure of the confidential information that they provide to us.
- Limit any access to third-party confidential information to those persons who have a need to know in order to do their job, and only for authorized purposes.
- Immediately report any loss or theft of confidential information to your manager
Watch Out For
- Discussions of confidential information in places where others might be able to overhear – for example on planes and elevators and when using phones.
- Sending confidential information to unattended fax machines or printers.
- Requests by business partners for confidential information about our customers or about other business partners if there is no associated business requirement or authorization.
- Unintentional exposure of confidential information in public settings or through unsecure networks.
Data Privacy
We respect the personal information of others. Follow our policies and all applicable laws and regulations in collecting, accessing, using, storing, sharing and disposing of sensitive information. Only use it – and share it with others outside of any Clarience company – for legitimate business purposes.
Make sure you know the kind of information that is considered personal information. It includes anything that could be used to identify someone, either directly or indirectly, such as a name, email address, phone number or credit card number.
Watch Out For
- Sending sensitive information to unattended fax machines or printers.
- Failing to shred or securely dispose of sensitive information.
- Using “free” or individually purchased internet hosting, collaboration or cloud services that could put personal information at risk.
Communicating on Behalf of Our Company
Clarience is committed to maintaining honest, professional and lawful internal and public communications. We need a consistent voice when making disclosures or providing information to the public. For this reason, each of us must help ensure that only authorized persons speak on behalf of any Clarience company. Refer any communications with media, investors, stock analysts and other members of the financial community to executive management. Social Media
Be careful when writing communications that might be published online. If you participate in internet discussion groups, chat rooms, bulletin boards, blogs, social media sites or other electronic communications, even under an alias, never give the impression that you are speaking on behalf of Clarience or any Clarience company.
If you believe a false statement about any Clarience company has been posted, do not post or share nonpublic information, even if your intent is to “set the record straight.” Your posting might be misinterpreted, start false rumors or may be inaccurate or misleading. Instead, contact Marketing and Communications.
Watch Out For
- Giving public speeches, writing articles for professional journals or other public communications that relate to Clarience without appropriate management approval.
- The temptation to use your title or affiliation outside of your work for any Clarience company without it being clear that the use is for identification only.
- Invitations to speak “off the record” to journalists or analysts who ask you for information about any Clarience company or its customers or business partners.
Political and Charitable Activities
Each of us has the right to voluntarily participate in the political process and in charities of our choice, including making personal contributions. However, you must always make it clear that your personal views and actions are not those of any Clarience company, and never use Company funds, time or the Clarience name or the name of any Clarience company for any political or charitable purpose without proper authorization.
Do the Right Thing
- Ensure that your personal political views and activities are not viewed as those of Clarience or any Clarience company.
- Do not use our resources or facilities to support your personal political activities.
- Follow all federal, state, local and foreign election laws, rules and regulations as they relate to Company contributions or expenditures.
Watch Out For
- Lobbying. Interactions with government officials or regulators that could be seen as lobbying must be discussed in advance and coordinated with the Legal Department.
- Pressure. Never apply direct or indirect pressure on another employee to contribute to, support or oppose any political candidate or party.
- Improper influence. Avoid even the appearance of making political or charitable contributions in order to gain favor or in an attempt to exert improper influence.
- Conflicts of interest. Holding or campaigning for political office must not create, or appear to create, a conflict of interest with your duties at Clarience.
Q&A
I will be attending a fundraiser for a candidate running for local office. Is it OK to mention my position at a Clarience company as long as I don’t use any Company funds or resources?
No. It would be improper to associate our name in any way with your personal political activities.
I would like to invite an elected official to speak at an upcoming Company event. Would that be a problem?
You must get approval from executive management before inviting an elected official or other government official to attend a Company event. If the invitee is in the midst of a reelection campaign, the Company event could be viewed as an endorsement of the candidate. Depending on local laws, any food, drink or transportation provided to the invitee could be considered a gift. In most cases, there would be limits and reporting obligations.
Cooperating With Investigations
From time to time, employees may be asked to participate in internal and external investigations and audits that are conducted by a Company. All employees are expected to fully cooperate with all such requests and ensure that any information you provide is true, accurate and complete.
You may also receive inquiries or requests from government officials. If you learn of a potential government investigation or inquiry, immediately notify your manager and the Legal Department before taking or promising any action. If you are directed by a Company to respond to a government official’s request, extend the same level of cooperation and again, ensure that the information you provide is true, accurate and complete.
Watch Out For
- Falsified information. Never destroy, alter or conceal any document in anticipation of or in response to a request for these documents.
- Unlawful influence. Never provide or attempt to influence others to provide incomplete, false or misleading statements to a Company or government investigator
Insider Trading
We respect every company’s right to protect its material, nonpublic (“inside”) information, and we comply with insider trading laws. In the course of business, you may learn confidential information about the Company or about publicly traded companies that is not available to the public. Trading securities while aware of material, nonpublic information, or disclosing it to others who then trade (“tipping”), is prohibited by various laws.
Material Information
Material information is the kind of information a reasonable investor would take into consideration when deciding whether to buy or sell a security. Some examples of information about a company that may be material are:
- A proposed acquisition or sale of a business
- A significant expansion or cutback of operations
- A significant product development or important information about a product
- Extraordinary management or business developments
- Changes in strategic direction such as entering new markets
Do the Right Thing
- Do not buy or sell securities of any company when you have material nonpublic information about that company.
- Protect material nonpublic information from the general public including information in both electronic form and in paper copy.
- Discuss any questions or concerns about insider trading with the Legal Department.
Watch Out For
- Requests from friends or family for information about companies that we do business with or have confidential information about. Even casual conversations could be viewed as illegal “tipping” of inside information.
- Sharing material nonpublic information with anyone, either on purpose or by accident, unless it is essential for Company-related business. Giving this information to anyone else who might make an investment decision based on your inside information is considered “tipping” and is against the law regardless of whether you benefit from the outcome of their trading.
Antitrust and Fair Competition
We believe in free and open competition and never engage in practices that may limit competition or try to gain competitive advantages through unethical or illegal business practices. Antitrust laws are complex and compliance requirements can vary depending on the circumstances, so seek help with any questions about what is appropriate and what isn’t.
In general, the following activities are red flags and should be avoided and, if detected, reported to the Legal Department:
- Sharing our Company’s competitively sensitive information with a competitor.
- Sharing competitively sensitive information of business partners or other third parties with their competitors.
- Attempting to obtain nonpublic information about competitors from new hires or candidates for employment.
Acquiring Competitive Intelligence
Information about competitors is a valuable asset in today’s competitive business environment, but in collecting business intelligence, you and others working on our behalf, must always live up to the highest ethical standards. Obtain competitive information only through legal and ethical means, never through fraud, misrepresentation, deception or the use of technology to “spy” on others. Sharing competitively sensitive information with competitors (whether that information belongs to us or our business partners) is always prohibited.
Do the Right Thing
- Do not enter into agreements with competitors or others to engage in any anti-competitive behavior, including setting prices or dividing up customers, suppliers or markets.
- Do not engage in conversations with competitors about competitively sensitive information.
- Be careful when accepting information from third parties. You should know and trust their sources and be sure that the information they provide is not protected by trade secret laws, nondisclosure or confidentiality agreements.
- Respect the obligations of others to keep competitive information confidential, including former employees of competitors, who are obligated not to use or disclose their former employer’s confidential information.
- While a Clarience company may employ former employees of competitors, recognize and respect the obligations of those employees not to use or disclose the confidential information of their former employers.
Watch Out For
- Collusion – when companies secretly communicate or agree on how they will compete. This could include agreements or exchanges of information on pricing, terms, wages or allocations of markets.
- Bid-rigging – when competitors or service providers manipulate bidding so that fair competition is limited. This may include comparing bids, agreeing to refrain from bidding or knowingly submitting noncompetitive bids.
- Tying – when a company with market power forces customers to agree to services or products that they do not want or need.
- Predatory pricing – when a company with market power sells a service below cost to eliminate or harm a competitor, with the intent to recover the loss of revenue later by raising prices after the competitor has been eliminated or harmed.
- Retaining papers or computer records from prior employers in violation of laws or contracts.
- Using anyone else’s confidential information without appropriate approvals.
- Using job interviews as a way of collecting confidential information about competitors or others.
- Receiving suggestions from third parties for new products, product features or services when the source of the original idea is not fully known.
Q&A
I received sensitive pricing information from one of our competitors. What should I do?
You should contact the Legal Department without delay and before any further action is taken. It is important, from the moment we receive such information, that we demonstrate respect for antitrust laws, and we make it clear that we expect others to do the same. This requires appropriate action that can only be decided on a case-to-case basis and may include sending a letter to the competitor.
Anti-corruption and Anti-bribery
We believe that all forms of bribery and other corrupt practices are an inappropriate way to conduct business regardless of local customs. Clarience is committed to complying with all applicable anti-corruption laws.
We do not pay or accept bribes or kickbacks, at any time for any reason. This applies equally to any person or firm who represents any Clarience company.
t is especially important that we exercise due diligence and carefully monitor third parties acting on our behalf. We carefully screen all business partners who work on our behalf, particularly when dealing in countries with high corruption rates and in any situations where “red flags” would indicate further screening is needed before retaining the business partner. Our partners must understand that they are required to operate in strict compliance with our standards and to maintain accurate records of all transactions. We never ask them to do something that we are prohibited from doing ourselves.
Key Definitions
Bribery means giving or receiving anything of value (or offering to do so) in order to obtain a business, financial or commercial advantage.
Corruption is the abuse of an entrusted power for private gain.
Facilitation payments are typically small payments to a low-level government official that are intended to encourage the official to perform his responsibilities.
Government officials include government employees, political parties, candidates for office, employees of public organizations and government-owned entities.
Do the Right Thing
- Understand the standards set forth under anti-bribery laws which apply to your role at the Clarience company you work for.
- Never give anything of value inconsistent with local laws and regulations to any government official. If you are not sure of the local laws, the safest course of action is to not give anything of value.
- Accurately and completely record all payments to third parties.
Watch Out For
- Apparent violations of anti-bribery laws by our business partners.
- Agents who do not wish to have all terms of their engagement with any Clarience company clearly documented in writing
Q&A
I work with a foreign agent in connection with our operations in another country. I suspect that some of the money we pay this agent goes toward making payments or bribes to government officials. What should I do?
This matter should be reported to the Legal Department for investigation. If there is bribery and we fail to act, both you and our Company could be liable. While investigating these kinds of matters can be culturally difficult in some countries, any agent doing business with us should understand the necessity of these measures. It is important and appropriate to remind our agents of this policy.
Anti-money Laundering
Money laundering is a global problem with far-reaching and serious consequences. It is defined as the process of converting illegal proceeds so that funds are made to appear legitimate, and it is not limited to cash transactions. Involvement in such activities undermines our integrity, damages our reputation and can expose our Company and the individuals involved to severe sanctions. Report any suspicious financial transactions and activities to the Legal Department and, if required, to appropriate government agencies.
Imports, Exports and Global Trade
Clarience has global operations that support a growing, worldwide customer base. To maintain and grow our global standing, all employees, officers and directors must strictly comply with all applicable laws that govern the import, export and re-export of our products, and also with the laws of the countries where our products are manufactured, repaired or used. Any violation of these laws, even through ignorance, could have damaging and long-lasting effects on our business.
If your responsibilities include exporting products or receiving imported products, you are responsible for screening customers, suppliers and transactions to ensure that we comply with all applicable export and import requirements.
Anti-boycott Regulations
We are subject to the anti-boycott provisions of U.S. law that require us to refuse to participate in foreign boycotts that the United States does not sanction. We promptly report any request to join in, support or furnish information concerning a non-U.S.-sanctioned boycott.
Do the Right Thing
- Obtain all necessary licenses before the export or re-export of products, services or technology.
- Report complete, accurate and detailed information regarding every imported product, including its place(s) of manufacture and its full cost.
- Direct any questions you have regarding imports or exports of our products, parts or technology to the Legal Department
Watch Out For
- Transferring technical data and technology to someone in another country, such as through email, conversations, meetings or database access. This restriction applies to sharing information with coworkers, as well as non-employees.
- Transporting assets of any Clarience company that contain certain technology (such as a computer an associate takes on a business trip) to another country.
Q&A
My work requires regular interaction with customs officials. As part of my job, I am routinely asked to provide the Customs Service with information about our imports and exports. Do I really need to contact the Legal Department prior to each and every submission of information to the government?
The right approach here would be to discuss with the Legal Department the types of requests your department routinely receives from Customs. These routine requests, once understood, might be handled without any legal review. Extraordinary requests would still require Legal Department review to ensure that you are responding accurately, fully and in accordance with the law.
Honest and Fair Dealing
We treat our customers and business partners fairly. We work to understand and meet their needs and seek competitive advantages through superior performance, never through unethical or illegal practices. We tell the truth about our services and capabilities and never make claims that aren’t true. In short, we treat our customers and business partners as we would like to be treated.
Do the Right Thing
- Be responsive to customer requests and questions. Only promise what you can deliver and deliver on what you promise.
- Never take unfair advantage of anyone by manipulating, concealing, misrepresenting material facts, abusing privileged information or any other unfair dealing practice.
- Never grant a customer’s request to do something that you regard as unethical or unlawful.
- Speak up and talk to your manager if you have concerns about any error, omission, undue delay or defect in quality or our customer service.
Watch Out For
- Pressure from colleagues or managers to cut corners on quality or delivery standards.
- Temptations to tell customers what you think they want to hear rather than the truth; if a situation is unclear, begin by presenting a fair and accurate picture as a basis for decision-making.
Working With Suppliers
We evaluate and engage with qualified business partners on an objective basis grounded in fairness. When selecting partners, we assess their ability to satisfy our business and technical needs and requirements.
All agreements are negotiated in good faith and must be fair and reasonable for both parties. Do your part to hold our business partners to our high standards and ensure they operate ethically, in compliance with the law and in a way that’s consistent with our Code, our policies and our values.
Government Contracting
We are committed to meeting the many special legal, regulatory and contractual requirements that apply to our government contracts. These requirements may apply to bidding, accounting, invoices, subcontracting, employment practices, contract performance, gifts and entertainment, purchasing and other matters. These requirements may also flow down to individuals and companies working on our behalf. Make sure you know and follow Clarience’s Code and policies as well as the laws and regulations that apply to government-related work.
Conflicts of Interest
A conflict of interest can occur whenever you have a competing interest or activity that may interfere with your ability to make an objective decision on behalf of the Clarience company you work for. Each of us is expected to use good judgment and avoid situations that can lead to even the appearance of a conflict, because the perception of a conflict can undermine the trust others place in us and damage our reputation.
Conflicts of interest may be actual, potential or even just a matter of perception. Since these situations are not always clear-cut, you need to fully disclose them to your manager so that they can be properly evaluated, monitored and managed.
Be alert to situations, including the following, which are common examples of potential conflicts of interest:
Corporate opportunities
If you learn about a business opportunity because of your job, it belongs to the Company first. This means that you should not take that opportunity for yourself unless you get written approval from executive management.
Friends and relatives
On occasion, it is possible that you may find yourself in a situation where you are working with a close friend or relative who works for a customer, business partner, competitor or even our Company. Since it is impossible to anticipate every scenario that could create a potential conflict, you should disclose your situation to your manager to determine if any precautions need to be taken.
Outside employment
To ensure that there are no conflicts and that potential issues are addressed, you always need to disclose and discuss outside employment with your manager. If approved, you must ensure that the outside activity does not interfere with your work for the Company. Working for a competitor, business partner or customer may raise conflicts that will need to be resolved. Also, any approved side or personal business should not compete with any Clarience company.
Personal investments
A conflict can occur if you have a significant ownership or other financial interest in a competitor, business partner or customer. Make sure you know what’s permitted – and what’s not – by our policies and seek help with any questions.
Civic activities
Unless Company management specifically asks you to do so, you shouldn’t accept a seat on the board of directors or advisory board of any of our competitors, business partners or customers, especially if your current job gives you the ability to influence our relationship with them.
Do the Right Thing
- Avoid conflict of interest situations whenever possible.
- Always make business decisions in the best interest of the Company.
- Think ahead and proactively address situations that may put your interests or those of a family member in potential conflict with any Clarience company.
- Discuss with your manager full details of any situation that could be perceived as a potential conflict of interest.
Business Gifts and Entertainment
A modest gift may be a thoughtful “thank you,” or a meal may offer an opportunity to discuss business. If not handled carefully, however, the exchange of gifts and entertainment could be improper or create a conflict of interest. This is especially true if an offer is extended frequently, or if the value is large enough that someone may think it is being offered in an attempt to influence a business decision.
Only offer and accept gifts and entertainment that comply with our policies and make sure that anything given or received is accurately reported in our books and records.
Be aware that the rules for what we may give to – or accept from – government officials are much more strict. Don’t offer anything of value to a government official without obtaining approval, in advance, from the Legal Department. And remember: We do not accept or provide gifts, favors or entertainment to anyone – even if it complies with our policies – if the intent is to improperly influence a decision.
Do the Right Thing
- Only provide and accept gifts and entertainment that are reasonable complements to business relationships.
- Never offer gifts to – or accept them from – a business partner with whom you are involved in contract negotiations.
- Comply not only with our policies, but also with the policies of the recipient’s organization before offering or providing gifts or entertainment.
- Never give or accept cash or cash equivalents.
- Do not request or solicit personal gifts, favors, entertainment or services.
- Raise a concern whenever you suspect that a colleague or business partner may be improperly attempting to influence a decision of a customer or government official.
Watch Out For
- Situations that could embarrass you or our Company (e.g., entertainment at sexually oriented establishments).
- Gifts, favors or entertainment that may be reasonable for a privately owned company but not for a government official or agency.
Q&A
When traveling, I received a gift from a business partner that I believe was excessive. What should I do?
You need to let your manager or the Legal Department know as soon as possible. We may need to return the gift with a letter explaining our policy. If a gift is perishable or impractical to return, another option may be to distribute it to employees or donate it to charity, with a letter of explanation to the donor.
Respecting Human Rights
We conduct our business in a manner that respects the human rights and dignity of all, and we support international efforts to promote and protect human rights, including an absolute opposition to slavery and human trafficking.
Each of us can help support efforts to eliminate abuses such as child labor, slavery, human trafficking and forced labor.
Do the Right Thing
- Report any suspicion or evidence of human rights abuses in our operations or in the operations of our suppliers.
- Remember that respect for human dignity begins with our daily interactions with one another, our business partners and our customers. It includes promoting diversity and doing our part to protect the rights and dignity of everyone with whom we do business.
Q&A
When I was visiting a new supplier, I noticed employees working there who seemed underage. When I asked about it, I didn’t get a clear answer. What are my next steps?
You did the right thing first to be on the lookout for human rights abuses and second to raise the issue with our supplier. The next step is to report the incident to the Legal Department. We are committed to human rights and to the elimination of human rights abuses including child labor
Responsible Sourcing and Conflict Minerals
Revenue from conflict minerals has been linked to funding for groups engaged in extreme violence and human rights atrocities. We work closely with suppliers of raw materials, parts and components and communicate our expectation that suppliers and vendors will comply with all applicable laws, including laws aimed at providing conflict-free minerals.
Corporate Citizenship
We believe in making a positive difference in people’s lives and maintaining the health and welfare of the communities where we live and work. We promote, encourage and support a diverse range of corporate social responsibility activities. You are encouraged to get involved in the many initiatives the Clarience companies support.
We also encourage you to make a difference on a personal level, but, in general, ask that you do so on your own time and at your own expense, making sure that your activities are lawful and consistent with our policies. Unless you receive approval in advance, please do not use Company funds, assets or the name of Clarience or any Clarience company to further your personal volunteer activities.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship
We recognize our environmental and societal responsibilities. We are committed to sustainability and to minimizing damage to the environment as well as any potential harm to the health and safety of employees, customers and the public.
Do the Right Thing
- Protect employee safety and the environment. Operate in full compliance with environmental, health and safety laws and regulations.
- Read and understand all the information provided by our Company that is relevant to your job and the health, safety and environmental effects of our operations.
- Fully cooperate with environmental, health and safety training and with our Company’s periodic compliance reviews of our products and operations.
- Stop work and report any situation that you believe could result in an unsafe working condition or damage to the environment.
- Provide complete and accurate information in response to environmental, health and safety laws, regulations and permits.
- Be proactive and look for ways that we can minimize waste, energy and use of natural resources. Contact the Legal Department or our EHS Manager if you have any questions about compliance with environmental, health and safety laws and policies.
Getting Help
Resource: | Contact: |
Human Resources |
Jackie Chizuk, Executive Vice President, HR Telephone: 248 846 8118 Email: [email protected] |
EHS Manager |
Joe Letko Telephone: 716 661 1346 Email: [email protected] |
Ethics and Compliance Hotline |
Contact the Ethics and Compliance Hotline: By telephone: 877 453 6651 (United States – English) 877 453 6651 (United States – Spanish) 800 952 513 (Australia) 400 120 0195 (China) 0 800 91 49 13 (France) 0800 0003143 (Germany) 800 099 1722 (Mexico) 0800 069 8021 (United Kingdom) Online: clarience.ethicspoint.com |
The Legal Department |
Gina Capua, Executive Vice President and General Counsel Telephone: 248 846 8128 Email: [email protected] |
Marketing and Communications |
Mark Johnson, Executive Vice President, Marketing Telephone: 248 846 8298 Email: [email protected] |
At Clarience, we believe in following all applicable laws and regulations. All employees must complete and submit this Acknowledgement Form annually and participate in all required ethics and compliance training.
Submitting this form indicates that you have read and understood our Code of Ethics and Business Conduct and:
- Have complied with the Code to the best of your knowledge.
- Have reported any possible conflicts of interest.
- Will contact management or use any of the reporting methods included in this Code if you have concerns related to a team member or business conduct