►Voluntary employment

workers enter voluntarily into employee contracts. Employers should not hold or control the identity papers of their workers or retain a money deposit. Slave labor, forced labor, indentured labor and the use of prison labor are not acceptable. Workers are free to leave their employer after reasonable notice.

►Freedom of association and right to collective bargaining

Employees should be permitted to join legally recognised labour/trade unions if they wish. Union representatives and members should not be discriminated against. Collective bargaining should not be obstructed.

►Children and young workers

children work only under circumstances that protect them from physical risks and/or other risks which can harm them mentally, emotionally or spiritually. Worst forms of child labour are not acceptable. The employment of anyone under the age of 18 must not interfere with their education, which means that children under the minimum school leaving age must not be employed full-time.

►Harassment, Harsh, Inhumane Treatment

all employees should be treated with respect and dignity and not be subject to verbal, physical, or sexual persecution, bullying, harassment, harsh or inhumane treatment in the workplace.

►Equal employment opportunities, discrimination

provide employees with equal employment opportunities and do not discriminate based on gender, ethnicity, race, religion, disability, caste, social status, marital status, sexual preference, union membership or political affiliation. Promote diversity and value different contributions that individuals make.

►Opportunity for development

value employees and reward them with opportunities for personal and job/career development

►Health, Safety, Hygiene

Create and provide a healthy, safe and hygienic work environment for employees and for products/services provided. Abide by relevant health and safety laws, including food safety regulations. Supply necessary safety equipment and training. Ensure that there are rest periods, suitable sanitation and potable water facilities. Working hours should neither be excessive nor contribute to an unsafe work environment.

►Work Hours and Fair Remuneration

Work hours are reasonable. Remuneration is fair, aims for a living wage and is, at a minimum, comparable to that offered by similar companies and in line with normal industry standards. Work hours and remuneration should meet local legal minimum standards and comply with local laws. Works should have a written understanding of their employment contract. Overtime should generally be worked on a voluntary basis and paid at a premium. All obligations in respect of local social security payments and provisions must be met. Deductions from wages as a disciplinary measure are not permitted.

►Environment

Minimise harm to the environment. Be carbon, energy, water and packaging conscious and work towards reducing these. Comply with local environmental laws, as a minimum.

►Organic & Sustainable Agriculture

Sustainably source agricultural raw materials in a way that meets current needs without compromising the ability of futures generations to meet their own needs. Protect related eco-systems, habitats, biological diversity and wildlife conservation related to growing the raw material. Organic products should be handled in accordance with certificated organic standards. This includes all aspects of farming, processing, manufacturing, packing and transport.