Fields of Action
Compliance as a central corporate task
Compliance means conforming to laws, recognized standards, and internal guidelines in all corporate activities. It represents one of the central tasks of any company. Professional integrity is an essential prerequisite for sustained corporate success. This is also the case at ElringKlinger. Therefore, compliance-related violations cannot be tolerated and may lead to sanctions. This applies to all our employees. Managers also bear special responsibility in this context.
The compliance management system of the ElringKlinger Group is designed to ensure that any measures associated with compliance can be implemented effectively. Our employees are given the opportunity to report possible compliance violations directly and anonymously at any time via the digital whistleblowing system (reporting channels) or to contact the Chief Compliance Officer or our regional compliance officers (points of contact). This system is adapted and optimized continuously in response to changing conditions.
Supporting staff in the fulfillment of their tasks
From ElringKlinger's perspective, it is of paramount importance that the company supports its employees in the performance of their duties in such a way that potential compliance-related violations are prevented from the outset. To this end, it is essential that employees are trained to a sufficient degree and in a targeted manner in the areas that are relevant to them. With this in mind, all employees complete an online training course relating to the points set out in our code of conduct.
Further training courses are directed at employees working in specific areas and on specific topics. It is important for us to convey the points set out in the code of conduct in a manner that is readily intelligible, i.e., in the respective national language and taking into account local regulations and cultural characteristics. In case of doubt in specific situations, employees get in touch with team members within the compliance organization.
Guidelines and responsibility
With the help of our guidelines, we as a company provide a clear set of requirements for our employees with regard to compliance issues. These are binding directives and work instructions as well as instructions for action relating to specific issues. We are aware of the fact that not all compliance issues that may arise in practice can be adequately described and answered in advance.
It is therefore crucial to raise staff awareness of compliance-related issues so that they are in a position to make well-judged decisions, seek support, and ensure transparency in crucial situations. Creating awareness and acting responsibly and transparently are essential elements of our compliance culture.
Key issues
Our code of conduct provides a concise summary of the issues of particular relevance to compliance at ElringKlinger. They include:
- Compliance with laws and guidelines
- Corruption
- Conflicts of interest
- Fair competition
- Insider trading
- Gifts and other benefits, invitations, donations
- Travel costs, allowances, and other business expenses
- Data protection and confidentiality
- No discrimination
- Occupational safety, health, and environmental protection
- Assistance, monitoring, and sanctions
All principles defined in the code of conduct are to be considered as non-negotiable guidelines in respect of the specific tasks to be performed and the pursuit of the corporate goals in the respective units.