The value

of integrity
Code of Business Ethics
CONTENTS
 Chief Executive’s message ................................... 02 Gifts and hospitality ................................................ 48
Commitment to our values ................................. 04 Fair competition ...................................................... 52
Working with our code ........................................ 08 Trade controls ......................................................... 57
Our responsibilities .................................................. 12 Working with company assets ............................ 60
Getting help and advice and speaking up ................ 14 Physical assets and company funds .......................... 62
Disciplinary action ................................................... 16 Accuracy in business records and representations .... 64
Addressing concerns and non retaliation ................. 17 Intellectual property ................................................ 66
Certification ............................................................ 18 Working with information .................................. 68
The Spectris Decisions Guide ................................... 19 Confidential and proprietary information ................ 70
Working together ................................................ 24 Inside information and share dealing ....................... 72
Fair employment and diversity ................................. 26 External communications ........................................ 74
Respect for one another .......................................... 28 Personal information ............................................... 77
Health, safety and wellbeing at work ...................... 30 Information technology systems .............................. 79
Human rights .......................................................... 32 Working within our communities ....................... 81
Conflicts of interests ............................................... 34 Charitable and community activities ........................ 83
Working with partners and Political contributions or activities ............................ 85
other stakeholders ............................................... 36 Respect for the environment ................................... 86
Product quality and safety ....................................... 38 How to get involved ............................................ 88
Working with third parties ...................................... 40 Policies, further guidance and
Our suppliers .......................................................... 43 contact information ............................................. 89
Anti-bribery and corruption ..................................... 45 Spectris Hotline .................................................... 90

01 CONTENTS CONTENTS
 Chief Executive’s message
Dear Colleagues, In order to achieve our goals, we must commit to and
operate according to our values and first among these is
At Spectris, we have a number of long-term objectives: absolute integrity. A culture founded on integrity is key
to achieving our strategic aspirations and creating a
» to be the owner of choice for productivity-enhancing business environment where we can all be proud of
businesses what we do. Lack of integrity and the resulting
» to deliver superior value over the long term for our unethical behaviour will do the opposite – harming our
customers and shareholders company and the communities in which we work.
» to create a performance-driven culture across all of
our operating companies and become leaders in our Our values are represented in this Code of Business
chosen markets Ethics. You have told us through your Ethics Officers
» to be a company that we are proud to work for, what you want to see reflected in this Code. Your
where we feel valued, motivated and capable of contribution to our engagement process demonstrates
reaching our full potential. that you recognise the value of integrity in all our
business dealings and shows your dedication to being
responsible, ethical Spectris people. I am proud of your
collective commitment.

02 CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S MESSAGE CONTENTS

 Your Code sets out the principles and expected
standards of behaviour which we must follow. However,
the Code cannot cover every situation or dilemma that
you will face as an employee so you should seek
additional guidance if you are unclear about an issue.

We want to be a successful company but how we

achieve our success is also extremely important to all of
us. Our success needs to be based on a true commitment
to our values.

03 CHIEF EXECUTIVE’S MESSAGE CONTENTS

 Commitment
to our values

04 CONTENTS
 Commitment to our values
Our values and what they mean to us underpin the We are committed to:
way we work, guide our decision making and shape
our culture.
Absolute Integrity
» always acting with honesty and transparency in all
that we do
» doing the right thing even if it means losing business
» keeping our promises and commitments
» treating our people and business partners with
fairness and respect.

05 COMMITMENT TO OUR VALUES CONTENTS

 Empowerment Customer Focus
» creating an entrepreneurial culture where people can » partnering with our customers to enhance their
take initiative and succeed productivity and performance
» challenging our people to grow and reach their » listening to customer challenges and actively
highest potential individually and collectively anticipating their future requirements
» trusting our people to take personal ownership and » delivering on our commitments to meet customer
accountability and learn from their experiences. needs.

06 COMMITMENT TO OUR VALUES CONTENTS

 Restless Innovation High Performance
» continuously improving products, services and » delivering strong and sustainable value for our
business processes shareholders
» constantly finding ways to enhance personal, » performing to the highest standards against the
customer and product performance to create commitments we make internally to one another and
maximum value externally to our customers
» challenging the status quo. » developing resilient businesses that are best in class
» acting with urgency without compromising quality,
safety, the environment and our integrity.

07 COMMITMENT TO OUR VALUES CONTENTS

 Working
with our
code

08 CONTENTS
 Working with our code
Our Group operating philosophy means that our However, at Spectris, we are united in our
operating companies are trusted and empowered to commitment to absolute integrity which underpins
manage their businesses independently and our operating philosophy and our diversity in business
entrepreneurially. and people. Our ethical values are shared and form
the foundation of our collective success.
Our businesses and products are varied and serve
different end-user markets across the world. Our Code of Business Ethics is based on our values
and sets out the principles and standards to which we
Our people provide the innovation, technical work and conduct our business. It provides guidance,
excellence for high performance and customer focus inspiration and practical advice on how we should
that makes each operating company an industry leader. work together, with our partners and other
stakeholders, with company assets and information,
We embrace our different skills, experiences, and in our communities.
perspectives, nationalities and cultures.

09 WORKING WITH OUR CODE CONTENTS

 Empowerment helps drive our success. As The Code also sets out Spectris’ commitment to an
individuals, we are encouraged to take personal open, transparent and non-retaliatory culture.
responsibility for our roles and we are entrusted to
make critical judgments and decisions but we must We all have a role to play in ensuring that we do the
also recognise that we may not always have the right thing as we work. Therefore, the ideas, principles
answer. Ethical dilemmas are often difficult to interpret and standards set out in our Code apply to:
and solve. Throughout this Code, we explain who to » employees, irrespective of job function, role or seniority
go to for help and advice or where more detailed » Spectris plc and all its subsidiary companies
information can be obtained. (collectively ‘the Group’)
» all our business partners.

10 WORKING WITH OUR CODE CONTENTS

 Spectris is a global business and we must be sensitive This Code, dated 2012, replaces the previous Spectris plc
to local customs and observe the laws that apply in Code of Business Ethics issued in 2009. It should be
the countries in which we operate. Where our observed in conjunction with the policies and procedures
principles, standards or guidance, as set out in this set out in the Spectris Group Manual and the various
Code and in our other Group policies, conflict with Group policies and guidance. If we believe there is a
any applicable local laws, we must follow the higher conflict between any of the requirements of this Code
standard, and ensure that the requirements of local and these policies, we should take this up with our local
laws are met. We apply the same standards of management team, the Spectris plc Company Secretary
conduct wherever we do business. or the Head of Business Ethics and Governance.

11 WORKING WITH OUR CODE CONTENTS

 Our responsibilities
We are each expected to demonstrate ethical If we manage people, we have the additional
leadership, live the values that promote the continued responsibility to:
success of our company and protect its reputation. This » create and foster a culture in which members of our
applies equally regardless of our roles, whether we are team feel able and confident to speak up and raise
employees, managers, directors or business partners. ethical issues
Therefore, » engage and follow through on questions and
concerns in a timely and appropriate manner
We all have a personal responsibility to: » be role models, lead by example and display high
» understand our Code, the values, principles and levels of integrity at all times
behaviours that are expected of us and required for » make sure our team understands that business results
our jobs are never more important than our integrity
» ensure our behaviour is consistent with the standards » make sure the Code is provided to everyone in our
set out in our Code team, and that they understand it.
» comply with all applicable laws and regulations
» seek guidance when we are unsure of the right Our business partners have a responsibility to:
course of action » be aware of and uphold our ethical standards and
» raise concerns if we become aware of any suspected ensure anyone they engage on our behalf does so too.
wrongdoing.

12 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » OUR RESPONSIBILITIES CONTENTS

 Spectris and our operating companies are committed to:
» providing training and resources so that our people
are equipped to recognise and deal with ethical issues
» never asking us to break our Code, or to act in a way
that is inconsistent with our values, laws or
regulations (for example, to achieve targets or secure
business or any other reason)
» providing open channels of communication that
enable concerns to be raised and dealt with properly
» taking action when a violation of our Code occurs
» ensuring that nobody is subjected to retaliation for
reporting a suspected misconduct in good faith.

13 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » OUR RESPONSIBILITIES CONTENTS

 Getting help and advice and speaking up
We are committed to creating and maintaining an Ethical dilemmas and concerns or questions about the
environment in which each one of us can get advice application of our Code can also be raised and
and raise questions about business conduct and ethical discussed with the Spectris plc Company Secretary or
issues. We will sometimes face ethical dilemmas that we the Head of Business Ethics and Governance.
are not sure how to resolve and require specific
guidance. In many instances, it will be appropriate to It is not possible for our Code to be exhaustive and set
speak to our manager or our designated Ethics Officer. out every legal or ethical standard required. Therefore,
In other instances, it may be advisable to consult the we must seek advice if we are unclear about anything.
relevant subject experts. If, for any reason, you are uncomfortable broaching
concerns through the available channels, or if you have
Serious violations of the Code must be reported to an raised concerns, or witnessed or experienced unethical
operating company President, the Spectris plc behaviour and these concerns, in your opinion, have
Company Secretary or Head of Internal Audit or via the not been adequately dealt with, these can be reported
Spectris Hotline. to the Spectris Hotline. The Spectris Hotline is managed
by an independent third party who will forward reports
to the appropriate Spectris plc representative.

14 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » GETTING HELP AND ADVICE AND SPEAKING UP CONTENTS
 In the spirit of our open and transparent culture, we
prefer reports to be made openly with name and
contact details so that a full investigation can be carried
out. We will make every effort to keep this information
confidential and only be known to those specifically
involved in investigating concerns. We also accept that
in some instances, it may be preferable for reports to be
made anonymously.

The Spectris Hotline can be reached on the numbers

listed at the back of this Code, or at:
www.spectrishotline.com

15 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » GETTING HELP AND ADVICE AND SPEAKING UP CONTENTS
 Disciplinary action
If, despite our commitment to integrity, an employee
fails to live up to our values or comply with our Code,
Group policies and procedures and/or applicable laws
and regulations, that person will be subject to
disciplinary action. The extent of any disciplinary action
will depend on the circumstances of the violation but
may include termination and reporting to the
authorities. Disciplinary action will be applied in a
manner consistent with the Group’s policies and
practices as well as relevant laws.

16 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » DISCIPLINARY ACTION CONTENTS

 Addressing concerns and non retaliation
Spectris is resolute in addressing all concerns raised in Spectris takes very seriously any claims of retaliation,
good faith. Good faith means providing all information reprisal or detrimental treatment as a result of raising an
regarding a concern and believing it to be true. Spectris ethical concern, reporting suspected misconduct in
will investigate any reported matter and where a good faith or providing assistance in an investigation.
violation has occurred, take corrective action to resolve For this reason, Spectris will take corrective action
the situation. against anyone found to have retaliated against another
person, regardless of his or her position. Anyone who
engages in retaliation or reprisal can expect to be
disciplined, which may include action up to and
including dismissal.

17 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » ADDRESSING CONCERNS AND NON RETALIATION CONTENTS
 Certification
We are each required to confirm that we have read and
understood our Code and that we will comply with it. In
addition, each year certain senior managers are required
to certify that they have reported any violations of the
Code of which they have become aware.

18 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » CERTIFICATION CONTENTS

 The Spectris Decisions Guide
At times we can all face decisions where the ‘right’ First, we must accept that we are facing a dilemma or
answer is not apparent (an ethical dilemma) or where challenge. Once we recognise this, it is important that
we know the right answer, but finding the courage or we take time to stop, think clearly about the issues, find
means to act on it proves difficult (an ethical challenge). the resolve to act on what we think is right, and ensure
we share perspectives and any lessons.
A dilemma arises when we have competing values or
rules, making it difficult to determine the ‘right’ choice The Decisions Guide has been devised as a simple tool
(for example, honesty versus loyalty). A challenge to help those facing ethical dilemmas or challenges.
emerges when the right course is clear, but whether the The Guide contains a simple set of questions to aid our
individual has the strength or means to execute that decision-making process. It will also help to structure
decision is uncertain. discussions with our colleagues.

19 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » THE SPECTRIS DECISIONS GUIDE CONTENTS

 Am I facing an ethical dilemma or challenge? If so...

Is it legal? Do I have all the facts?

If the answer to
Which of our
Have I consulted the any of these
values and
appropriate people? questions is “no”
elements of the
or “don’t know”,
Code of Business
then stop and seek
Ethics apply?
guidance.

Am I setting a good Have I considered

example? How would alternative options and
this look to others? their merits?

Stop, think, have courage, share…

20 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » THE SPECTRIS DECISIONS GUIDE CONTENTS
 You can work through the questions in any order, and The following provides more detail on how the
no single question is necessarily considered to be any Decisions Guide can help us to stop, think, have
more important than any other. Although this exercise is courage, and share.
not intended to slow down our decision-making, do
make sure that you (and any others you may be jointly Do I have all the facts?
making the decision with) consider each point carefully. » Do I have all the facts or information I need to make
This Guide will only help if you are honest in recognising a fair and objective decision?
and working through the challenges and dilemmas » Are there any factors that might be clouding my
presented. It is intended to help us recognise the value judgment or that of others involved?
of integrity in business and underlines the importance » Have any contentious facts been adequately verified?
of taking decisions with integrity in mind.

21 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » THE SPECTRIS DECISIONS GUIDE CONTENTS

 Which of our values and elements of the Am I setting a good example?
Code apply here? How would this look to others?
» What is making me uncomfortable about this » Am I living the role of an ethical leader?
decision, and why? » What does my intuition tell me is important here?
» Which of our values are relevant to this decision and » What would be the impact of my action being widely
how does my decision align with these? known or discussed?
» Am I clear on which parts of our Code are relevant to » How might others react if they heard about it through
this decision? the press or social media? What would it mean for key
customers, suppliers and other business partners?
Have I considered alternative options
and their merits? Have I consulted the appropriate people?
» Have I thought creatively? Who else can help? » Have I gathered the right advice and opinions to
» Who benefits from this decision? make the best decision? Have I been honest in
» Who could be adversely affected by this decision? explaining the problem?
» Do I know who will be affected by this decision?
» Do I have the authority to make it?
» Have the right people been informed about my
decision?

22 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » THE SPECTRIS DECISIONS GUIDE CONTENTS

 Is it legal?
» Do I know if there are any legal implications here, We should never feel the need to make difficult choices
including international conventions? Who can I ask? on our own. This Code, your Ethics Officer and all of
» Have all relevant commitments been considered, for your colleagues are here to provide support and
example, environment, community, health and safety guidance.
(even if not legally binding)?
» If I know it is legal, have I still considered all the other
questions carefully? (Recognise that often the
standard of conduct we set ourselves in Spectris
might be higher than the minimum legal standard.)

23 WORKING WITH OUR CODE » THE SPECTRIS DECISIONS GUIDE CONTENTS

 Working
together

24 CONTENTS
 Working together
We are our company’s greatest asset. We provide the
innovation, commitment to customer focus, and high
performance that turn good ideas and intentions into
success. It is vital that our working environments are
inclusive and respectful places where we are valued.
Our fairness to our people means that we treat one
another with dignity and respect.

25 WORKING TOGETHER CONTENTS

 Fair employment and diversity
Our principles This means we will:
Through our actions we demonstrate Spectris’ and our » make decisions on hiring, pay, benefits, promotions
operating companies’ commitment to fairness in and other employment-related matters based on an
employment opportunities. As part of our culture of individual’s experience, performance and skills and
respect, we believe that people with varied the company’s needs
backgrounds and perspectives add creativity to the » not make decisions when we recruit or manage
company and we encourage diversity in the workplace. people based on factors which are irrelevant to a
We are committed to providing equal opportunities in person’s ability to do the job
recruitment, employment, training and development » strive for a positive workplace where employees are
and promotion regardless of race, colour, religion or recognised and rewarded for their efforts and unique
belief, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual contributions.
orientation, age, marital or civil partner status, disability
or military veteran status.

26 WORKING TOGETHER » FAIR EMPLOYMENT AND DIVERSITY CONTENTS

 Q I manage a small team and a new employee of a
different ethnic background has recently joined
us. One of the long-standing team members constantly
complains about the quality of the new employee’s
work and his strange ways. He also thinks that the new
employee must be in collusion with other employees of
the same background as he constantly sees them
together. What should I do?

A First speak to the established employee about his

observations and concerns. Discrimination against
another employee on any grounds is unacceptable.
Both employees may need training on working with
people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Consult your local HR team for expert advice.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: respect
EMPOWERMENT: collective teamwork

27 WORKING TOGETHER » FAIR EMPLOYMENT AND DIVERSITY CONTENTS

 Respect for one another
Our principles This means we will:
We show respect for our colleagues and never act » listen to others and value their opinions and input
improperly towards them. A positive, open and inclusive even when their views differ from our own
work environment is one where we feel respected and » not engage in any conduct that could be considered
comfortable with one another. disrespectful, intimidating, aggressive, humiliating,
violent or harassing, including any form of sexual
harassment
» not treat our colleagues adversely because of
personal information we may be privy to as a result of
our jobs.

You can talk to: your line manager or HR team

More information: your company’s employment policy

or human resources handbook

28 WORKING TOGETHER » RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHER CONTENTS

 Q My manager is in a bad mood at work and I
avoid him all day. I am getting ready to go home
after work when I see him yelling and swearing at a
colleague. His behaviour does not affect me directly.
What should I do?

A Your manager’s behaviour is unacceptable. It is

never appropriate to shout or swear at a
colleague. If you find it awkward to speak with your
manager directly, approach another manager, your HR
team or any leader in the business.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: respect

29 WORKING TOGETHER » RESPECT FOR ONE ANOTHER CONTENTS

 Health, safety and wellbeing at work
Our principles This means we will:
Our wellbeing comes first. That’s why we promote » know and follow all laws, regulations and company
health and safety in our daily work. We are responsible policies on workplace health and safety
for creating and promoting a workplace where all » attend safety training sessions
employees feel safe and protected from harm. » use protective equipment, safety devices and clothing
for work as required
» speak up and alert our managers to any unhealthy or
unsafe situations that we encounter
» ensure all business partners or contractors working at
our facilities follow safety procedures
» never use or be under the influence of illegal drugs
on company property or business
» never be under the influence of, or consume alcohol
You can talk to: your line manager, company’s facilities
or illegal drugs when on our company’s or a
team or health and safety staff
customer’s manufacturing line or facility
» only consume alcohol when on company business,
More information: Spectris plc Health and safety
where appropriate and in moderation
policy, Vehicle and driver policy, your company’s health
and safety policy and any specific equipment usage
instructions

30 WORKING TOGETHER » HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELLBEING AT WORK CONTENTS

 » adhere to the pharmaceutical manufacturer’s
recommendations on the operation of equipment or
vehicles when taking medicines
Q My manager constantly reminds me about the
importance of wearing safety equipment as per
the signs on display. However, whenever he shows
» make health and safety key considerations in all our people around the laboratory, neither he nor his
work activities. guests ever wear safety goggles or earplugs. Should I
flag this up?

A Yes. The rules regarding protective equipment

apply to everyone and are there to keep us all
safe. You should raise this with your manager;
otherwise consult another manager or health and safety
or HR representative.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: doing the right thing
EMPOWERMENT: personal ownership and accountability
HIGH PERFORMANCE: acting without compromising safety

31 WORKING TOGETHER » HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELLBEING AT WORK CONTENTS

 Human rights
Our principles
Spectris adopts internationally recognised human rights harassment; support for disabled individuals; non-use of
standards wherever it operates. The company’s human forced or child labour; freedom of association; collective
rights policy is consistent with the Principles of Human bargaining; environmental practices; and safe working
Rights, as set out in the International Labour conditions. We all have a responsibility to promote and
Organization’s Core Conventions. This policy sets out protect human rights and freedoms.
the standards we apply in our interactions with
employees, business partners and the communities we
operate in, as well as the expected conduct regarding:
employment rights and opportunities; workplace non-

You can talk to: your line manager or HR team

More information: Spectris plc Human rights policy

and your company’s human rights or related policy

32 WORKING TOGETHER » HUMAN RIGHTS CONTENTS

 This means we will:
» always respect the human rights of those we work
alongside and come into contact with as Spectris
employees
Q I work in the procurement team. During a visit to
one of our contractors’ premises I noticed that a
number of their employees seemed very young and of
» adhere to applicable laws regarding the freedom of school age. None of these young employees are ever on
employees to associate or bargain collectively without our sites. Is this my concern?
fear of discrimination
» not use forced or child labour or engage any partners
that do so
A Yes. You should speak to the contractor to get
more information and clarify the situation. At
Spectris, we do not condone child labour and expect
» pay wages and benefits which meet or exceed
our contractors and other suppliers to have the same
national minimum requirements, and adhere to
standards.
working time regulations where applicable
» make our partners aware of our human rights policy
and encourage them to adopt similar standards. WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: fairness

33 WORKING TOGETHER » HUMAN RIGHTS CONTENTS

 Conflicts of interests
Our principles
We must demonstrate loyalty to our company and company’s customers, suppliers or competitors; holding
colleagues by avoiding any personal or family interests or acquiring a personal financial interest in a competitor,
which may lead us to act against the best interests of customer or supplier (apart from the holding of shares or
the company. securities listed on a recognised stock exchange); or
working directly with a family member or someone who
As part of our jobs, we have a responsibility to ensure we have a personal relationship with. We will be open
that personal activities do not conflict with our and transparent about any potential conflicts of interests
professional duties or loyalties to the company and our and discuss them with our line manager.
colleagues. At times, a personal interest may differ from
our responsibility to the company. Such conflicts can This means we will:
arise in a number of ways and we have a duty to » avoid situations where our personal interests may
consider carefully situations in which our loyalties may conflict with those of our operating companies or
be divided, by managing them appropriately. These can impact negatively on our colleagues
include: external employment and affiliations; engaging » always disclose any conflicts of interest or potential
in business activities or acting as a director in one of the conflicts of interest with our line manager or Ethics
Officer and ensure that these are approved and
recorded in writing in the conflicts register
You can talk to: your line manager, HR team, legal
team, Ethics Officer or Spectris Group Legal

34 WORKING TOGETHER » CONFLICTS OF INTERESTS CONTENTS

 » not personally provide any services to a competitor or
potential competitor, customer or supplier
» not knowingly place business with a firm owned or
A His daughter can apply for the job if it has been
advertised externally. The director must indicate
that his daughter has applied for the job and exclude
controlled by an employee of our company or their himself from the interview and hiring process. The criteria
family without first obtaining clearance and approval used to assess all candidates’ suitability for any Spectris
to do so. role is based solely on merit. If the daughter gets the job,
her father should not be involved in supervising her or

Q I work in HR. While reviewing some job

applications, I notice similarities between the names
and address details of one of the applicants and one of our
deciding her pay. Regard should be given to how the
daughter's employment could be perceived by
colleagues. Check for local rules on nepotism.
company directors. The director, who will be involved in the
interview process, has not indicated that his daughter is an
WHICH VALUES?
applicant. Can we include her in the interview process?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty, transparency, fairness

35 WORKING TOGETHER » CONFLICTS OF INTERESTS CONTENTS

 Working
with partners
and other
stakeholders

36 CONTENTS
 Working with partners
and other stakeholders
We believe that our partners choose to work with us We respect the communities and governments of the
not only because of the innovation and quality of our communities in which we operate. We do not cut
products and services but because of the high standards corners but conduct our business in accordance with all
of integrity that we demonstrate. Our company’s relevant laws, regulations and applicable standards.
reputation comes down to how we work with others, Where laws are less restrictive than our own standards,
the trust we develop and the commitments that we we follow our higher standards.
keep. Our daily interactions and discussions with our
customers, suppliers and other business partners make
the difference to our success. We will only appoint
partners whom we know are reputable having carried
out appropriate due diligence.

37 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS CONTENTS

 Product quality and safety
Our principles This means we will:
We are committed to ensuring the quality and safety of » comply with all relevant product quality and safety
our products at every stage – from design through to laws and regulations
manufacture, from sales and commissioning to after » understand the contractual specifications or other
sales support. We have a duty to our customers to requirements which our company must achieve to
provide products and services that match our promises meet our customers’ requirements, including those
and their requirements – providing good value and that exist in our different end-user markets
delivering consistently on product performance, quality, » follow stringent product quality plans and
reliability and safety. procedures, including quality assurance testing,
without compromise
» provide high standards of after sales service and
prompt redress when product quality or safety issues
are raised by our customers
» immediately report any quality or safety issues we
become aware of to our line manager or quality or
safety assurance team.

You can talk to: your line manager, product

development, quality and safety assurance teams or
legal team or Spectris Group Legal

38 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » PRODUCT QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTENTS
 Q I am a technician in my company’s
manufacturing team and am charged with
completing a product shipment to a tight deadline.
WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: transparency, doing the right thing
CUSTOMER FOCUS: delivering on our commitments
I need to carry out the product quality assurance testing HIGH PERFORMANCE: acting without compromising quality
but if I do, the shipment will be delayed. I am under and safety
pressure from my supervisor to meet the deadline and
am considering skipping the tests. None of my products
have failed a test before and I feel confident that testing
would be successful. Can I skip the testing?

A No – the strict adherence to our testing

procedures is not optional. Notwithstanding the
time pressure, it is not acceptable to skip the testing.
You should speak to your supervisor first. If this proves
tricky, explain to another member of the management
team that the testing needs to be completed and this
might cause a shipment delay. At Spectris, we never
take short cuts with quality or safety.

39 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » PRODUCT QUALITY AND SAFETY CONTENTS
 Working with third parties
Our principles
We use various third parties – agents, contractors, approach to conducting business. In order to protect the
consultants and other representatives – to serve and Group from being inadvertently involved in illegal or
sometimes represent the Group. These parties help us to corrupt practices we have policies and processes in place
form relationships with other partners and in some cases to ensure the careful selection of our business partners.
act on behalf of or represent the Group. It is, therefore,
imperative that they understand our standards and

You can talk to: your line manager, legal team, sales or
business development team, Spectris Group Legal and
Spectris plc Company Secretary

More information: Anti-bribery and corruption and

Spectris plc Group manual - Control of legal exposures
and Third party due diligence policy

40 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » WORKING WITH THIRD PARTIES CONTENTS
 This means we will:
» carry out proportionate but thorough due diligence » issue third parties with our Code, requesting
on potential partners, engaging only those who meet confirmation of receipt and understanding where
our ethical standards necessary, and provide anti-bribery or other
» inform potential partners of the company’s expectations necessary training
regarding how they conduct business on our behalf » not use third parties to conduct improper business or
» ensure that standard form agreements (set out in the illegal activities.
Control of Legal Exposures section of the Group
Manual) will be entered into prior to third parties
providing services or acting on behalf of the company
» only make payments to third parties on
commercially reasonable terms and in line with
market practice and law
» learn to recognise and report red flags that may indicate
a failure of third parties to comply with our standards

41 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » WORKING WITH THIRD PARTIES CONTENTS
 Q I have worked with an agent for a number of
months and he has been instrumental in getting
us introduced to new clients. Last week he presented
his bill which included large amounts for entertainment.
I told him this was excessive and he has come back with
a new invoice that just says consulting fees. He is a very
influential person. Should we just pay the bill?

A No. We have a responsibility to ensure that

agents and other third parties who are working
on our behalf adhere to our standards and obey the
law. This payment must be checked by local
management to ensure that it is correct.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty, doing the right thing

42 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » WORKING WITH THIRD PARTIES CONTENTS
 Our suppliers
Our principles
We know that our success depends on supplier We also recognise that our strategy of outsourcing non-
relationships that are built on trust and mutual core manufacturing does not remove our responsibility
rewards. This means that we manage these for the ethical integrity of those products or the
relationships with respect, honesty and integrity environmental impact of our suppliers. Therefore, we
whatever the size of the transaction or length of our expect our suppliers to adhere to our standards in
relationship, and that we pay our suppliers in line with relation to human rights, working conditions, health,
our contractual and legal obligations. safety and the environment.

You can talk to: your line manager or procurement or

legal teams or Spectris Group Legal

More information: Human rights and your company’s

procurement policy

43 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » OUR SUPPLIERS CONTENTS

 This means we will:
» provide equal and open opportunities for our suppliers
to bid on and win contracts in line with our selection
criteria ensuring suppliers are chosen on merit
Q I am the purchasing manager at my company
and while visiting a supplier’s factory observe a
number of unsafe working practices. It appears that
» communicate openly and honestly with our suppliers chemicals are not being disposed of properly. What
» honour our agreements and commitments to our should I do?
suppliers
» make our suppliers aware of the principles within this
Code and the standards we expect of them.
A You must raise your concerns and discuss the
issue with the supplier and ask them to improve
their health, safety and environmental practices. If the
supplier is using unsafe practices, it could affect the
quality of the products they supply to us. You may have
to consider ending the relationship with the supplier if
they do not improve and should seek advice from your
manager or legal team.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: doing the right thing
HIGH PERFORMANCE: acting without compromising safety
and the environment

44 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » OUR SUPPLIERS CONTENTS

 Anti-bribery and corruption
Our principles
We do business on the basis of our product and service We comply with relevant legislation on bribery and
excellence and work hard to protect our product corruption in the countries in which we operate. We
integrity. We are committed to doing business in an only appoint third parties who can demonstrate that
ethical manner and have a zero tolerance policy on they comply with the principles of our Code and
bribery. We do not pursue business that will require us conduct business with high standards of integrity.
or any Group companies to engage in unethical or Bribery also undermines our core values of restless
illegal practices and we will not accept business if it innovation and high performance.
requires giving or receiving a bribe or kickback.

You can talk to: your line manager, legal team, Ethics
Officer, Spectris Group Legal and Spectris plc Company
Secretary

More information: Working with third parties,

Working within our communities and Spectris plc
Group manual - Control of legal exposures and third
party due diligence policy

45 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » ANTI-BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION CONTENTS
 This means we will:
» be ethical in our actions and never exchange anything » not offer, give or accept any form of a ‘kickback’ tied
of value that could be considered as an improper to facilitating a business transaction: a kickback could
incentive for a business action be a bonus, incentive, thing of value, disguised gift or
» always ask ourselves whether the decision or action form of entertainment, potentially from a customer
we are about to take could give the appearance of or other party
impropriety or compromise the Group’s or our » not make any ‘facilitating’, ‘grease’ or ‘expediting’
personal integrity or reputation payments to government officials so as to clear
» not offer, provide or accept anything of value that is items through customs or to obtain a required
intended or may be perceived as an effort to permit more quickly
influence a business decision: this could be a » not use an agent, contractor or other company
payment, gift, favour, job offer or other benefit, representative to make any payment or provide anything
including entertainment and hospitality else of value that our company does not permit.

46 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » ANTI-BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION CONTENTS
 Q In order to secure a deal with a customer, I offer
the customer a cash payment. The payment is
from my personal funds and I do not claim the money
from the company. Is there anything wrong with this?

A This is completely unacceptable and the potential

consequence for making such a payment could
be severe for you and the company. It is irrelevant that
payment is made personally. At Spectris we never pay
bribes, either directly or through third parties.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty, transparency, doing the
right thing, fairness

47 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » ANTI-BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION CONTENTS
 Gifts and hospitality
Our principles
We only exchange appropriate gifts, entertainment and A small gift can be a gesture of goodwill; a business
other hospitality where permitted and in order to build dinner may provide an opportunity to get to know a
a business relationship – never as an incentive for customer or supplier better but an inappropriate gift
improper conduct. We recognise that in appropriate may suggest improper influence in business transactions
circumstances, exchanging modest gifts, entertainment and indicate attempts to conduct business using
or certain other hospitality can help us to form or illegitimate tactics.
strengthen relationships with our business partners.

You can talk to: your line manager, legal team and
Ethics Officer

More information: your company’s gifts,

entertainment and hospitality policies for local gift
currency limits and related standards

48 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » GIFTS AND HOSPITALITY CONTENTS
 Gift currency limits and related standards are stated in
our companies’ individual policies and they are to be
respected at all times. Registers to record gifts and
hospitality, whether accepted or declined, should be
maintained.

49 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » GIFTS AND HOSPITALITY CONTENTS
 This means we will:
» not offer, give or accept a gift that is not in » not offer, give or accept a gift, entertainment,
accordance with our company policies hospitality or anything else of value that is illegal or
» not accept a gift that is greater than nominal/modest against the recipient’s organisational policies
value without prior written approval from our line » not offer, give or accept a gift, entertainment,
manager/senior executive: nominal value items hospitality or anything else of value that is not
include the occasional low-cost pen, key ring or customary or appropriate in the country or industry
mouse mat » not offer, give or accept a gift, entertainment,
» not offer, give or accept a gift of cash or monetary hospitality or anything else of value that could be
equivalents, such as gift cards or vouchers seen as an attempt to influence business decisions.
» not offer, give or accept entertainment that has no
business purpose or where the host is not present: for
example, gifted tickets to an event
» not offer, give or accept entertainment that is lavish
or costly without our line manager/senior executive’s
approval: for example, attendance at a major
sporting event

50 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » GIFTS AND HOSPITALITY CONTENTS
 Q Our courier delivery man and I support the same
football team and often discuss football when he
visits our offices. During one of his visits, he gave me a
small box of cookies. On today’s delivery round he
presented me with four premium tickets to watch our
football team in the finals. I would really like to see the
match with my friends. Can I accept the tickets?

A Accepting the occasional box of cookies may be

fine, however tickets to a sporting event would
be considered lavish and are not acceptable. Refer to
your company’s policy on gifts and hospitality and seek
approval from your line manager before accepting a gift
or hospitality which is not of modest value.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty, transparency, doing the
right thing

51 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » GIFTS AND HOSPITALITY CONTENTS
 Fair competition
Our principles
We are committed to vigorous and fair competition, Dealings with competitors
and we believe these objectives can be achieved
This means we will:
simultaneously. We will always behave ethically when
» never enter the company into any agreement or
competing for business and placing business with
understanding with a prospective or current
suppliers. Our standards help to ensure that the Group
competitor that is intended to create or likely to
competes fairly in all of its markets as well as competing
suggest unfair competition
aggressively to best serve our customers. We follow all
» refrain from discussing pricing, market shares and
competition laws and know and adhere to company
production/output plans with competitors
standards regarding fair competition.
» immediately excuse ourselves if any such topics arise
in a meeting involving competitors, stating that we
believe the discussion is improper and immediately
report the matter to our legal teams
» consult our legal team or Group Legal before entering
If you are involved in marketing, sales, pricing or into discussions or communications with a competitor
contracts, you must understand the competition rules about a partnering agreement like a joint venture
related to your work. The laws in each of our markets
vary and in some countries competition laws apply to
activities and individuals outside their home market

52 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » FAIR COMPETITION CONTENTS

 » ensure that the specific facts of each competition
situation are provided to a senior executive or our
legal team in order to ensure that a correct resolution
be determined
» never allow or help the company to engage in any
action with intent to drive out competitors or
otherwise unfairly compete
» not disparage competitors, their products or services
particularly with comments that cannot be
substantiated, and ensure that any product
comparisons are based on factual data or
competitors’ marketing or communications
» always seek advice from our legal team or Group Legal
regarding the stringent rules on restrictive practices
» participate in any competition law training.

53 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » FAIR COMPETITION CONTENTS

 Gathering competitive information » not use confidential information or data from
previous jobs or encourage anyone else to do so
This means we will:
» check with our legal teams before using any
» only acquire information on the competitive
competitor information that is marked as
marketplace from proper public sources, such as:
confidential, such as ‘Internal Use Only’ or ‘Company
newspapers; a competitor’s publicly-available
Confidential’
marketing material; discussions with customers;
» never use an agent, consultant or other third party to
observations of competitors’ products and services
obtain competitive information unless part of a
available to the market; and market reports on
specific project and the agreement for the receipt of
industrial segments from reputable sources
information has been approved by our legal team or
» not access information to help the company through
Group Legal.
theft, spying or other covert or illegal behaviour
» never accept confidential information directly from a
competitor unless part of a specific project and the
agreement for receipt of the information has been
approved by our legal team or Group Legal

54 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » FAIR COMPETITION CONTENTS

 Dealing with customers and suppliers

This means we will:

» not enter the company into any discussion,
understanding or agreement with a prospective or
existing customer, distributor, supplier or other third
party that is intended to restrict or eliminate
competition, will have the effect of restricting or
eliminating competition, or is likely to suggest unfair
competition.

You can talk to: your line manager, contracts team,

procurement team, business development team and
legal team, Ethics Officer or Spectris Group Legal

More information: Spectris plc Group manual -

Competition and anti-trust compliance policy

55 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » FAIR COMPETITION CONTENTS

 Q My company and a major competitor are both
bidding for a contract with a major customer. A
colleague who recently joined the company after
working for a competitor says he kept notes on all our
competitor bids when he had access to the data and
offers to bring his notes in to let me see them. The
information could be useful in our bidding process. Is it
OK to use the information?

A No. The information is proprietary to the

competitor and must not be used. You should
not encourage colleagues to keep or use confidential
information obtained from other jobs and you can
only use information about competitors that is in the
public domain.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty, transparency, fairness

56 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » FAIR COMPETITION CONTENTS

 Trade controls
Our principles
Most countries in which we conduct business regulate Our company standards also apply to agents or other
the movement of products, services and data across representatives doing business for the company or
their borders and we comply with all laws and acting on its behalf.
regulations governing the import and export of our
products, including: customs; tax; duty-free sales;
country and company embargoes; restricted end uses;
and anti-boycott requirements. We support the
company’s responsibilities for cross-border trade and
follow the export, re-export and import requirements
set by the countries in which we do business.

If you are in any way involved in moving products,

services or information into and out of the company,
ensure that you know the company’s policies and
procedures and related regulatory requirements. It is
important that all employees know in advance the steps
required to avoid problems during or after the actual
movement of materials

57 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » TRADE CONTROLS CONTENTS

 This means we will:
» comply with all applicable import and export laws » follow the company’s policies and procedures
and regulations and obtain relevant authorisations whenever we handle goods, technology or data that
for the import and export of goods, technology will be transferred to or has been received from
and information persons outside the company
» never support or participate in any activity which we » ensure that we are familiar with restrictions on
know will violate customs, export or import regulations, providing services and technical assistance to
such as: mislabelling or undervaluing products on certain companies, individuals and countries, where
shipping or documents; concealing the final destination relevant to our jobs
of shipments; or supplying products and services » take part in appropriate export training programmes
without an export licence when one is required at Spectris.

You can talk to: your company’s export controls

compliance officer, your legal team, or the Spectris
Export Control Advisor

More information: Spectris plc Group manual - Export

controls compliance policy and your company’s Export
controls compliance manual

58 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » TRADE CONTROLS CONTENTS

 Q My team receives a request for a quotation from
a potential customer for use in their
pharmaceutical plant. During the sale process, we learn
that the customer is funded by drug cartels and on the
denied parties list. The customer claims to have done
business with our competitors and says that they can
assist in obtaining the relevant export licence. Can we
proceed with the sale?

A No. Our Code states that we comply with

applicable import and export laws and regulations
and we do not do business with anyone on the denied
parties list. Breaching these laws could expose the
company to legal sanctions and seriously damage our
reputation. Check with your export controls manager
before any goods or services are supplied.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: doing the right thing

59 WORKING WITH PARTNERS AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS » TRADE CONTROLS CONTENTS

 Working
with
company
assets

60 CONTENTS
 Working with company assets
How effectively we manage our assets can make the
difference between a marginally successful company
and a great one. Our shareholders count on us to make
wise use of the company’s assets, spurring us to use
those assets effectively and properly to best serve all of
us at Spectris.

61 WORKING WITH COMPANY ASSETS CONTENTS

 Physical assets and company funds
Our principles This means we will:
The company’s physical assets consist of facilities, » use with care and only for authorised purposes
equipment, supplies, raw materials and finished goods company and third party assets we have been
in inventory or awaiting shipment to a customer. entrusted with
Company funds will usually include cash, cash » not use company assets for personal use or remove
equivalents, company credit cards, invoices and other them from company facilities without proper
documentation that represents funds transactions. authorisation
» not dispose of major assets, such as equipment or
We must obtain the best value from all our assets by raw materials, without authorisation
using them properly and protecting them from misuse, » not seek to make personal gain from the use or sale
loss or improper destruction. We apply the same of company assets
standard of care whether it relates to expensive
machinery or equipment, or office supplies.

This standard applies equally to those assets in our care

which belong to our customers or business partners.

62 WORKING WITH COMPANY ASSETS » PHYSICAL ASSETS AND COMPANY FUNDS CONTENTS
 » only use company funds for business purposes and
ensure that all transactions are properly recorded
» ensure that all payments to third parties are proper
Q My son needs to print his five-page science report
and I offer to print this for him at work. His report
wins the School Science Award and he needs 100 copies
» be alert for signs that may indicate improper efforts, of his five-page report. Can I print these at work?
such as payment terms that violate contracts or
payments to payees or locations other than the name
on record.
A Printing a short personal document as a one-off
may be OK. However, printing a much longer
document is inappropriate. Company assets may only
be used for business purposes, not personal use.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty
HIGH PERFORMANCE: delivering sustainable value

63 WORKING WITH COMPANY ASSETS » PHYSICAL ASSETS AND COMPANY FUNDS CONTENTS
 Accuracy in business records and representations
Our principles
It is essential that our financial and corporate books and Shareholders, customers, regulators and other
records show a clear and accurate picture of our stakeholders count on the company to provide
operations and trading position at all times. Accurate accurate information about our operations and
and complete records of all business conducted by our products. Our commitment to integrity demands that
companies must be maintained and financial statements we do nothing less.
prepared in accordance with applicable legal, technical
and professional standards. We must ensure the
company is fully compliant with all applicable
regulations relating to: tax declarations; import and
export duties; money laundering; foreign exchange
controls and similar.

You can talk to: your line manager, company’s finance

team, Ethics Officer or the Spectris plc finance team

More information: Spectris plc Group Accounting and

policies manual and your company’s policies

64 WORKING WITH COMPANY ASSETS » ACCURACY IN BUSINESS RECORDS AND REPRESENTATIONS CONTENTS
 This means we will:
» preserve documents and records in accordance with
applicable standards
» report financial information consistent with the
Q I notice in my payroll record that instead of
subtracting five days’ holiday, which I took
recently from my holiday balance, five days have been
Spectris Group Manual added. As it is not my error, I am tempted not to mention
» show integrity in submitting or approving expense it and take the five extra days. Can I keep quiet?
claims consistent with company policies
» not knowingly make a false or misleading entry in any
financial or non-financial records or reports
A Absolutely not. You must report the error to your
HR, benefits or payroll team. It is irrelevant that
you did not make the error and you have a duty to
» accurately represent characteristics and performance
correct the mistake. You are responsible for ensuring
of the company’s products and services
that all records, including those relating to holiday and
» immediately report any requests to falsify records
time-recording, are correct. Your time is of value to the
» seek immediate guidance in response to any
company and you have a duty to protect it.
suggestions that taxes or duties due could be avoided
by under-declaring values or payments in foreign
currencies or jurisdictions. WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty, doing the right thing
EMPOWERMENT: personal ownership and accountability

65 WORKING WITH COMPANY ASSETS » ACCURACY IN BUSINESS RECORDS AND REPRESENTATIONS CONTENTS
 Intellectual property
Our principles This means we will:
Company intellectual property consists of innovations » safeguard all company intellectual property by
and other unique works or materials that the company designating its confidentiality
can protect through patents, trademarks or copyrights. » inform our manager when we develop innovations,
Equally important is sensitive company information that knowledge or other information, so that the company
provides us with competitive advantage, such as trade can determine whether and how to protect it
secrets which we must safeguard from unauthorised » ensure that third party intellectual property is
disclosure. obtained legitimately with the owner’s consent and is
introduced into the company’s projects or systems in
a way that does not damage our systems or expose
us to liability
» use third-party intellectual property only according to
proper-use licences.

You can talk to: your line manager, your VP/Director

responsible for IP, legal team, Ethics Officer or Spectris
plc Company Secretary

More information: Spectris plc Group manual -

Intellectual property and your company’s policies

66 WORKING WITH COMPANY ASSETS » INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY CONTENTS

 Q I am at a reception at the end of a trade show
and overhear a colleague talking about a new
product he is working on. The product has many
innovations unique to our business. One individual
seems to be taking a particularly close interest. What
should I do?

A Your colleague may inadvertently be revealing

confidential intellectual property belonging to the
company. Intervene in a professional manner, stop the
conversation and explain to your colleague why.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: doing the right thing
EMPOWERMENT: personal ownership and accountability

67 WORKING WITH COMPANY ASSETS » INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY CONTENTS

 Working with
information

68 CONTENTS
 Working with information
The business information that we work with is vital to
our success. It provides important knowledge to help us
serve our customers and compete effectively. That is
why all business information belonging to or shared with
the company is safeguarded and used properly. When
others entrust us with their information, it must also be
used wisely and carefully to get the best value from it.

69 WORKING WITH INFORMATION CONTENTS

 Confidential and proprietary information
Our principles This means we will:
Any information that we do not make public can be » where appropriate, enter into confidentiality or non-
considered company confidential and proprietary disclosure agreements and use confidential
information and must be protected. Our customers, information in accordance with the terms of those
suppliers and others may also share their confidential agreements
and proprietary information with us. We have a duty to » use confidential information for business purposes
make proper use of information belonging to others, only, protect it from improper disclosure or misuse,
including customers, other business partners and and only dispose of it according to company
information owners, including competitors. procedures
» only disclose information to individuals with a
business need or authorisation, depending on its
sensitive nature
» only disclose third-party confidential information with
their permission
» only retain or dispose of third-party confidential
information according to the terms of the relevant
You can talk to: your line manager, legal team, Ethics
confidentiality agreement
Officer or Spectris Group Legal

More information: Gathering competitive information

70 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION CONTENTS

 » use third-party intellectual property, such as
copyrighted articles, trademark names and other
information that requires a licence, as per proper use
Q I have been working on a new client project that
makes extensive use of a supplier's technology.
The client, who has signed a non-disclosure agreement
guidelines and restrictions with us, is asking to see specifications that relate to the
» ensure that products and business practices do not performance of the supplier's components. Is it advisable
violate the patent, confidentiality, trademark or other to send over specifications that relate to this project?
rights of competitors or other third parties
» recognise that any discussions taking place between
us and a third party may be as confidential as any
A Even though there is a non-disclosure agreement
in place between the client and your company, it
does not mean that you have the right to share the
information that is passed to us following the
supplier’s confidential information without their consent.
confidentiality agreement or during the course of
You should discuss this with your manager or legal team.
those discussions.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty, fairness to our business
partners

71 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » CONFIDENTIAL AND PROPRIETARY INFORMATION CONTENTS

 Inside information and share dealing
Our principles
Inside information refers to important confidential Buying or selling shares on the basis of inside
information about Spectris that has not been made information is a criminal offence in the UK, US and
public, and if known, could influence an investor’s many other countries.
decision to buy or sell shares. This information can
include: corporate earnings; potential acquisitions
pending major product launches; entry into new
markets; or restructurings. Inside information includes
the important, confidential information of both our
company and business partners with whom we work.

You can talk to: your line manager, legal team, Ethics
Officer or Spectris Group Secretarial

More information: Spectris plc Group manual -

Share dealing code

72 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » INSIDE INFORMATION AND SHARE DEALING CONTENTS

 This means we will:
» safeguard inside information and only provide it to
those who require it to do their jobs or are authorised
to receive it
Q My father-in-law has held shares in Spectris for
many years. He telephoned me recently, asking
whether to buy more shares or sell his holding. I am
» never use inside information as the basis for trading aware that we are about to announce the acquisition of
in Spectris or other companies’ shares a business which could affect the share price. What
» seek the consent of the Spectris plc Company should I do?
Secretary before trading
» never provide inside information to others who may
use it as the basis for trading.
A If you have information which is not generally
available to the public and could potentially affect
the share price or influence investors’ decisions, you
may possess inside information. Never provide inside
information to others, even close family, as it may be
used as the basis for trading and the legal sanctions for
the misuse of inside information can be severe.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty, transparency,
doing the right thing
EMPOWERMENT: trusting our people

73 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » INSIDE INFORMATION AND SHARE DEALING CONTENTS

 External communications
Our principles
Our reputation is important. Many parties have an We are expected to compete vigorously and effectively
interest in the Group’s activities – investors, regulators, but never unfairly. Therefore honesty underpins all
local communities, the press, potential customers and sales, marketing and advertising activities. Our
suppliers and others. We need to communicate to them commitment to honesty and transparency demands it.
in a clear, unified and accurate voice. All external parties
are dealt with in a straightforward way to ensure that
nothing we say is intentionally inaccurate or misleading.

You can talk to: your line manager, company’s

communications staff, a senior executive or Spectris plc
Head of Corporate Affairs

More information: your company’s policy on

communicating with outside parties

74 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS CONTENTS

 This means we will:
» only provide outside parties with information about » accept the responsibilities of online social networking,
company operations if we are authorised to do so and that if we identify ourselves as a Spectris
» forward any requests for information we are not employee, we must ensure our profile is consistent
authorised to provide, to our manager or operating with how we want to present ourselves to our
company’s communications staff or legal team colleagues and customers, and that any content we
» advise regulators contacting us that the company publish reflects our values
wants to be helpful and that we are required to » ensure that all our advertising and marketing claims
forward the request to the proper company individual are accurate, can be substantiated and never mislead
» always use care and good judgment when speaking customers about our products and services
about Spectris, our operating companies or » make sure that all our marketing and promotional
individual employees, particularly on social media materials, including trade fair samples, do not contain
channels, and refrain from publishing or reporting on technical information controlled for export by
internal conversations or reports which are applicable laws
confidential to our company » not quote or reference customers, partners or
suppliers without their prior approval.

75 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS CONTENTS

 Q On my way out of the office, I am approached by
a journalist who asks me to comment on the
news that Spectris is acquiring a new business in the
City. I have recently heard rumours to this effect. Can I
discuss this with the journalist?

A No. Politely decline to comment and direct the

question to the person responsible for external
communications in your company.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: fairness to our business partners

76 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS CONTENTS

 Personal information
Our principles
Spectris collects information about and from employees Certain regions and countries, such as the European
for legitimate business purposes, such as providing Union, restrict how personal information can be
benefits and other services. We are committed to retained, used and transferred across borders. We
keeping employee information safe and ensuring that respect and abide by these restrictions.
all personal data is used and stored appropriately. Our
culture of respect means we do not misuse personal This means we will:
information in our possession. » ensure information in our possession is used for
legitimate business purposes only
» only issue personal information to others who require
it to perform their jobs and are authorised to have it.

You can talk to: your line manager, HR team, legal

team, Ethics Officer or Spectris Group Legal

More information: Respect for one another, your

company’s employment policies, human resources and
data protection policies

77 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » PERSONAL INFORMATION CONTENTS

 Q I notice a colleague has left some CVs on her
desk with a note saying ‘shortlisted’. A good
friend in the company has applied for a transfer and I
am pleased to see that she has made it onto the
shortlist. I text her straight away with the good news. Is
this a problem?

A Yes. You were wrong to read the confidential

information on your colleague’s desk and it was
not your right to inform your friend of the outcome of
the shortlist process. Confidential information and
personal data must only be used in the appropriate
business context. Your colleague also has a responsibility
to safeguard confidential information in her care.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: fairness to our people
EMPOWERMENT: personal ownership and accountability

78 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » PERSONAL INFORMATION CONTENTS

 Information technology systems
Our principles This means we will:
We maintain the integrity of our information » conform to all requested procedures to safeguard our
technology resources, use them with care and according information technology systems from improper access
to company procedures, and protect them from or use, including desktop and laptop computers
improper use and harm. Our information technology » use appropriate security to restrict access to company
systems, software and data are important tools for information technology systems, such as passwords
managing our business. Their physical integrity and and proper logins
security are critical to our operations and help us to » prevent others from accessing our information
serve our customers effectively and efficiently. technology systems without authorisation
Information technology includes all networks, » not introduce unapproved, unlicensed or potentially
computers, software, telephones, personal digital malicious software onto our systems
devices, data and system and Internet access. » use these systems only for approved business
purposes, restricting personal use to a minimum
» not use company computers inappropriately, for
example to access pornography or gambling sites.

You can talk to: your line manager, IT department,

Ethics Officer or Spectris Group IT

More information: your company’s IT policies

79 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS CONTENTS

 Q One of my colleagues seems to spend most of
her time on social networks. When a supervisor
walks past, she always switches screens. She is a good
friend and I don’t want to cause offence. What can I do?

A Your friend risks getting into trouble if she is

spending excessive amounts of time on personal
sites. Not only is she wasting time, she is also using
company assets inappropriately. Try talking to her
about this directly, pointing out that her activities have
been noticed. If her behaviour persists, you must report
it to her manager.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: honesty, doing the right thing

80 WORKING WITH INFORMATION » INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS CONTENTS

 Working
within our
communities

81 CONTENTS
 Working within our communities
As a business citizen, we take our responsibilities
seriously. We recognise that our social responsibilities
extend to the communities in which we operate and
that we have a duty to safeguard our environment.

82 WORKING WITHIN OUR COMMUNITIES CONTENTS

 Charitable and community activities
Our principles
Our companies provide support and assistance to local Any company funds committed to charitable and
charities, participating in a range of activities and community causes must be authorised and properly
educational initiatives in aid of their local communities. accounted for in accordance with our operating
We encourage our people to contribute to charitable company policies.
and worthy causes in their communities in a
responsible manner. This means we will:
» seek permission before volunteering for charitable or
community activities on behalf of our companies
» ensure that company funds reserved for charitable or
community causes are accounted for and in line with
our company guidelines
» make sure any charitable donations or sponsorship of
You can talk to: your line manager, HR team, legal
£10,000 or more are first approved by the Business
team, communications team or Ethics Officer
Group Director and Spectris plc Group Finance
Director as instructed in the Delegated Authority
More information: Anti-bribery and corruption,
Limits in the Spectris Group Manual
Spectris plc Group manual - Delegated authorities
limits and your company’s policy on charitable and
community support

83 WORKING WITHIN OUR COMMUNITIES » CHARITABLE AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES CONTENTS

 » exercise caution when making donations on behalf of
the company, ensuring that donations are
appropriate and proportionate and do not give the
Q The purchasing manager for a large company
agrees to give me their first order, expecting me
to make a £200 donation to his favourite local youth
appearance of being an improper payment or bribe sports charity. Our company actively funds local
» make certain that any volunteering we commit to on charities. Will the same rules apply to this donation?
a personal basis does not conflict with our work. Please advise.

A You should not make the donation. While we are

committed to supporting local communities and
charities, making a donation on these terms could be
viewed as an improper payment or a bribe. You should
discuss the matter with your manager or legal team.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: doing the right thing, fairness

84 WORKING WITHIN OUR COMMUNITIES » CHARITABLE AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES CONTENTS

 Political contributions or activities
Our principles
It is the company’s policy that donations or provision of
support in kind to political parties or campaigns are
prohibited.
Q A team member is active in local politics and has
decided to run for local office. This activity will not
impact on his work time. He puts posters of himself and
his political party up in the staff canteen and other areas.
This means we will: None of these are in public facing areas. Is this OK?
» not use company funds, facilities or other assets to
make contributions or donations to political
candidates, parties or causes
A What an employee does in their own time is up
to the individual. It is, however, unacceptable for
political posters to be put up on work premises. Our
» not use our work time to engage in activities that
Code is very clear on this point: ‘ensure that our
support political efforts
personal activities and contributions to political interests
» ensure that our personal activities and contributions
do not suggest the company’s involvement.
to political interests do not implicate our company.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: fairness
EMPOWERMENT: personal accountability

85 WORKING WITHIN OUR COMMUNITIES » POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS OR ACTIVITIES CONTENTS

 Respect for the environment
Our principles This means we will:
We are committed to conducting our business in a » comply with all applicable environmental laws and
manner which safeguards the environment. As regulations and strive for best practice in all our activities
responsible stewards, we work hard to minimise any » manage our resources to minimise raw material usage,
negative impact our work may have in the communities dispose of waste correctly, reduce harmful emissions
in which we operate. We take the continuing reduction and promote energy conservation and recycling
in our environmental impact seriously, conserving and » assure our suppliers and business partners that their
protecting natural resources and managing our energy environmental impacts are managed to standards
and water usage. acceptable to the Group
» adhere to all Group or operating company guidelines.

You can talk to: your Facilities Manager or Operations

Director

More information: Spectris plc Group manual -

Environmental policy or your company’s environmental
policy

86 WORKING WITHIN OUR COMMUNITIES » RESPECT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT CONTENTS

 Q Two colleagues are disposing of waste oil down a
drain. They explain that they have no place to
store it and that it is not toxic. Is this acceptable?

A No. You should ask them to stop immediately

and get a clean-up team involved. Spectris has
clear rules regarding the disposal of waste and these
must not be ignored. If they refuse to cooperate then
you must report this matter to your manager or another
senior manager. Spectris could face investigation from
the relevant environmental agency, leading to sanctions
and possibly damaging our reputation.

WHICH VALUES?
ABSOLUTE INTEGRITY: doing the right thing
HIGH PERFORMANCE: acting without compromising
the environment

87 WORKING WITHIN OUR COMMUNITIES » RESPECT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT CONTENTS

 How to get involved
Your Ethics Officer can provide you with more
information on ethical leadership in your operating
company or across the Group, including how to get
involved in engagement and awareness initiatives or
provide ideas on how our Code and Ethics programme
can be improved.

And tell us the good stories

This Code continuously reiterates our responsibility to

speak up when we have concerns or suspect that
violations of the Code have occurred. That said, each
day many of us across our Group recognise the value of
integrity and are doing the right thing as we work, so
we want to hear the good stories too.

If you become aware of examples of outstanding ethical

leadership by others, please tell your Ethics Officer.

88 HOW TO GET INVOLVED CONTENTS

 Policies, further guidance and
contact information
A number of Spectris plc Group-wide policies and Working with Information
procedures are referred to throughout this Code as Share Dealing Code
sources of additional information and guidance on
ethical issues. These are listed below: Working within our Communities
Delegated Authorities Limits
Working Together Environmental Policy
Health and Safety Policy
Human Rights Policy

Contact details for the Spectris Company Secretary,

Working with Partners and Other Stakeholders
Head of Business Ethics and Governance and Head of
Control of Legal Exposures Policy
Internal Audit are as follows:
Third Party Due Diligence Policy
Competition and Anti-Trust Compliance Policy
Telephone: +44(0)1784 470470
Export Controls Compliance Policy
Email: [email protected]

Working with Company Assets Spectris plc

Group Accounting Policies Manual Heritage House, Church Road, Egham,
Intellectual Property Surrey, TW20 9QD, England

89 POLICIES, FURTHER GUIDANCE AND CONTACT INFORMATION CONTENTS

 Spectris Hotline
Whether we wish to raise concerns or report violations
of the Code, guidance on who you can speak to for
further advice and support are given throughout this
document. You can also report violations of the Code or
raise concerns via the Spectris Hotline at:

www.spectrishotline.com
or on the following numbers:

90 SPECTRIS HOTLINE CONTENTS

 Australia 1-800-339276 Mexico (English) 001-866-737-6850
Austria 0800-291870 Netherlands 0800-0226174
Belgium 0800-77004 Norway 800-15654
Brazil 0800-8911667 Poland 0-0800-1211571
Canada (English) 1-877-310-0383 Portugal 8008-12499
Canada (French) 1-855-350-9393 Romania 0808-03-4288
China (Southern) 10-800-120-1239 at the prompt dial 877-310-0383
China (Northern) 10-800-712-1239 Russia 8-10-8002-6053011
Czech Republic 800-142-550 Singapore 800-1204201
Denmark 80-882809 South Africa 080-09-92604
Finland 0800-1-14945 South Korea (English) 00-308-110-480
France 0800-902500 second option (English) 00-798-11-009-8084
Germany 0800-1016582 auto prompt in Korean 00-798-14-800-6599
Hong Kong 800-964214 Spain 900-991498
Hungary 06-800-17199 Sweden 020-79-8789
India 000-800-100-1071 Switzerland 0800-562907
Indonesia 001-803-011-3570 / 007-803-011-0160 Taiwan 00801-13-7956
Italy 800-786 907 UAE (United Arab Emirates) 8000-021
Japan (English) 0066-33-112505 at the prompt dial 877-310-0383
auto prompt in Japanese 00531-121520 UK (United Kingdom) 0800-032-8483
Mexico (Spanish) 001-800-840-7907 USA (United States of America) 1-877-310-0383

These numbers are also available on the Spectris Hotline website.

91 SPECTRIS HOTLINE CONTENTS

 Spectris plc
Spectris develops and markets productivity-enhancing
instrumentation and controls. Spectris is listed on the
London Stock Exchange, is approved for membership of
the FTSE4Good Index of socially-responsible companies
and is a subscriber to the Institute of Business Ethics.

92 SPECTRIS PLC CONTENTS

In-Line Instrumentation Materials Analysis Industrial Controls Test & Measurement

CONTENTS
CONTENTS

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