Code of Conduct of Freudenberg is based on Guiding Principles and Business Principles. It is binding for all associates and is intended to enable them to handle ethical and legal questions in an ppropriate manner.

HUMAN RIGHTS, HEALTH, OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY, ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE PROTECTION

Health protection and occupational safety

Freudenberg is fully committed to ensuring safe working conditions and complying with regulations on occupational health and safety, as well as environmental protection, in order to preserve the health of associates, protect third parties, and prevent accidents, injuries, and work-related health hazards.

Environmental and climate protection

We take responsibility for making our actions as environmentally compatible as possible. Our mission is to use natural resources for our production processes, products, and services as conservatively and prudently as possible.

Human rights

In accordance with our Guiding Principles, Freudenberg respects internationally recognized human rights and fundamental freedoms in harmony with the principles of the UN Global Compact, to which we are a signatory. We oppose child labor and any form of forced labor or slavery at the Freudenberg Group companies, as well as at our direct and indirect suppliers. Our employees have the free choice to join or form a union/employee advocacy organization of their choice without discrimination, threats, intimidation, or any other form of retaliation.

COOPERATION

The Freudenberg Group promotes open communication and teamwork.

Equal opportunities and non-discrimination

Associates of the Freudenberg Group mirror the diversity of society and represent a great variety of languages, cultures, and lifestyles. We value the uniqueness of each associate. We respect people of all cultures and ethnic origins.

Violence and harassment in the workplace

Violence in the workplace is not tolerated. This includes explicit or implicit threats, intimidation, physical assault, and any form of harassment.

COMPANY PROPERTY AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION

Freudenberg company property and proprietary information

Every associate must handle company property responsibly and protect all Freudenberg assets from loss, damage, theft, misuse, and unauthorized use.

Information about other companies

While it is permissible to collect generally available information about other companies, it is prohibited to obtain information about other companies through unlawful, unfair, or otherwise dubious methods.

SOFTWARE, EMAIL, SOCIAL MEDIA AND INTERNET

Information technology (IT) systems, including hardware, software, and the data they process and store, are crucial in Freudenberg’s business operations. They are company property and, as such, may only be used for Freudenberg’s business purposes.

ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL REPORTING

Annual financial statements and accounting books, records, and accounts of every legal entity within the Freudenberg Group are part of the company records and therefore constitute company property and important assets. They must be accurate and comply with all statutory and fiscal requirements, as well as with Freudenberg’s internal accounting policies.

DATA PROTECTION

Freudenberg protects the personal data of associates, customers, suppliers, and other data subjects.

COOPERATION WITH BUSINESS PARTNERS

Freudenberg also expect our business partners, in particular, suppliers and distribution agents, to share and observe our basic principles of ethical behavior, human rights, compliance with legal standards, and environmentally friendly operation.

ANTITRUST AND COMPETITION LAWS

Freudenberg complies with all laws prohibiting unfair or deceptive trade practices. Likewise, Freudenberg does not enter into any coordinated or informal agreements on boycotting customers or other business partners.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

We expect our associates to maintain the highest ethical standards. The company’s interests must be a priority in all business transactions with existing or potential customers, suppliers, competitors, and other partners. Business decisions may not be based on personal interests or benefits.

CORRUPTION

Prohibition of corruption

Corruption, bribery, embezzlement, fraud, acceptance of advantages, and any other form of corrupt action in business transactions are strictly prohibited at Freudenberg.

Gifts, invitations, and hospitality

We have internal guidelines on the handling of gifts, hospitality, and invitations to events to clarify which benefits are appropriate and which steps must be observed when accepting and granting benefits.

PROHIBITION OF MONEY LAUNDERING AND FINANCING OF TERRORISM

We do not allow transactions with Freudenberg Group companies to be misused for the purpose of money laundering or the financing of terrorism. We oppose any transaction through which a third party secures the “fruits” of a crime.

PRODUCT CONFORMITY AND SAFETY

We are responsible for ensuring to the greatest degree possible that no injuries or dangers to health, safety, the environment, and the assets of our customers or third parties result from the use of our products and services.

FOREIGN TRADE LAW AND EXPORT CONTROL

Associates involved in import and export matters ( and development, and supply chain) must be familiar with the applicable regulations and comply with the processes established in order not to violate the regulations.

Code of Conduct