What is the Code of Conduct?
The code of conduct is a document required by various ISO standards and social and ethical responsibility regulations. It sets out the ethical principles, standards of behaviour and ESG values that should guide the actions of all those involved, whether they are employees, managers, collaborators or suppliers. Its main objective is to promote a working environment based on respect, integrity, responsibility and transparency.
The code establishes clear guidelines on how to act in situations such as conflicts of interest, dealing with customers and suppliers, use of company resources, confidentiality of information, and legal compliance. It also usually includes a channel for reporting possible breaches or inappropriate behaviour, guaranteeing confidentiality and non-retaliation.
The code of conduct reinforces corporate culture and enhances the company’s reputation among its stakeholders. It can be a key tool for complying with standards and laws, especially in areas such as corporate social responsibility and sustainability.
What does the Code of Conduct contribute?
The benefits of the code of conduct are:
- It fosters an ethical culture: It establishes shared values such as integrity, respect and social responsibility, promoting a healthy and consistent working environment.
- Guides behaviour: It provides clear criteria for acting in complex situations or ethical dilemmas. It guides daily decisions and actions in accordance with ethical values, ensuring that all members of the organisation act in a manner consistent with common values and objectives.
- Improves corporate reputation: It conveys to customers, suppliers and other stakeholders the organisation’s commitment to ethics and good governance.
- Reduces legal risks: Helps prevent irregular or illegal behaviour that could lead to sanctions, fines or loss of trust.
- Increases internal trust: Creates a safe and trusting work environment where everyone knows what is expected of them and can report malpractice without fear of reprisals.
- Improves cohesion and commitment: By establishing common values, it reinforces a sense of belonging and alignment with the company’s objectives.
- Facilitates decision-making: Serves as a reference tool when doubts arise, especially on issues such as confidentiality, conflicts of interest or dealing with third parties.
- Promotes sustainability and social responsibility: It is often part of regulatory compliance and good business practice systems.
FAQs Code of Conduct
Regulations and laws requiring a code of conduct
Of the regulations and laws that require or recommend a “code of conduct”, the following stand out:
- IQNet SR10 / SA8000 / SGE21 (Social Responsibility). These regulations and standards require codes of conduct that address human rights, working conditions, integrity and sustainability.
- Ecovadis, SMETA, Lucie Progress (Ethics and Social Responsibility). Recommends having a code of conduct.
- ENS, ISO 27001 or GDPR (Technology and ICT sector). Requires or recommends a code governing conduct in matters of security, privacy and ethical use of technology.
- Law 2/2023, on the protection of whistleblowers. Requires a “whistleblowing channel” and measures to prevent retaliation. Applies to companies with more than 50 employees or with certain regulated activities.
- UNE 19601 standard (Criminal compliance). Requires a “crime prevention system”, where the code of conduct is a key element in establishing internal rules and ethical commitments.
- ISO 37301 (Compliance management systems). Requires the definition of the organisation’s ethical principles and values, which is usually specified in a code of conduct.
- ISO 37001 (Anti-bribery). Includes the code of conduct as a necessary document to demonstrate commitment to anti-corruption.
- Authorised Economic Operator (AEO). Requires evidence of commitment to legality and good practices, where a code of conduct is key to customs compliance.
- Farmaindustria Code of Good Practice. Requires a code of conduct to regulate relations with healthcare professionals and organisations.
To whom does the code of conduct apply?
The code of conduct is a document that sets out the principles, values and standards that should guide the behaviour of everyone who is part of the organisation.
It applies to all employees, managers, external collaborators, suppliers and, in some cases, even customers and business partners.
Why is it important to comply with the code of conduct?
It is important to comply with it because it guarantees an ethical, safe and respectful working environment, and protects both the organisation and the people who work there from legal and reputational risks.
Non-compliance may result in internal sanctions, disciplinary measures and even legal consequences in serious cases.
What should I do if I detect behaviour that contravenes the code?
If you detect behaviour that contravenes the code of conduct, you must report it through the established reporting channel, which guarantees confidentiality and protection against reprisals.