Violations of This Code
Alleged violations of our Code and policies are thoroughly investigated and can have serious consequences, including financial or reputational penalties, and discipline, including termination.
Part of your job and ethical responsibility is to help enforce this Code. You should be alert to possible violations and promptly report violations or suspected violations.
You must familiarize yourself with our Code and understand that a violation of the Code could include both taking a wrong action (intentional or not), as well as NOT taking a required action. Both types of conduct could create legal, financial, and reputational problems for you and the organization.
Not every violation of the Code is as clear cut as fraud or bribery. And as our business grows ever more fast-paced and complicated, it can become harder to identify the right actions and make good decisions. This is why we must ask questions and report any concerns we might have.
You can trust that violations of the Code will be addressed. If necessary, an investigation will be conducted by trained personnel using the Bio-Rad investigation process. The investigation process at Bio-Rad is consistent, fair, and prompt. We should fully cooperate with any Bio-Rad investigation and provide all information requested. Investigations are conducted by either the Corporate Compliance Department or HR, with support from Legal and other experts as appropriate. You should not investigate matters yourself.
Expectations
- We follow the law, our Code, and our policies.
- We cooperate when asked to support investigations into alleged violations of our Code or our policies.
- We understand that retaliation for reporting violations of our Code or our policies will not be tolerated.
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Key Terms
Includes wrong actions as well as failure to take proper action where required by the Code.
Using punishment to train and correct violations of rules. Can include punishment up to and include termination.
Consequences for violating local, regional, or international laws that could include fines, restitution and remediation, jail or prison time for individuals, or being banned (debarred) from certain markets for organizations.
A formal process to learn the facts about a situation or issue, a formal inquiry, study, or examination. At Bio-Rad, investigations are conducted by qualified personnel using a process that is consistent, fair, and prompt.
There can be many negative results for violating the Code. In addition to legal penalties, there is also the cost of lost business opportunities and investigation and remediation costs.