Non-discrimination (GRI 406)
Management approach non-discrimination
The Geberit Code of Conduct forbids discrimination as defined in the International Labour Organization (ILO) core labour standards. Geberit does not tolerate either discrimination or workplace bullying on the basis of race, gender, religion, creed, nationality, age, sexual orientation, physical or mental handicap, marital status, political views or other characteristics protected by law. Geberit aims to ensure a safe working environment for its employees. All forms of workplace violence, including threats, threatening gestures, intimidation, attacks and similar forms of behaviour are forbidden. Compliance with the Code is verified annually as part of a Group-wide survey.
According to the Geberit Code of Conduct, employees who openly address irregularities which represent breaches of applicable law, ethical standards or the Code of Conduct are acting correctly. The Group Executive Board of Geberit must be informed of problems in the area of integrity in order to be able to solve these swiftly. By openly addressing such issues, Geberit employees are contributing to their own protection, that of their colleagues and the protection of Geberit’s rights and interests.
If issues should occur, employees should seek a personal meeting with their supervisor. The Geberit Integrity Line is available to all employees as a whistleblower hotline in the corresponding language. The service is intended to enable employees to anonymously report cases such as sexual harassment or when a corrupt payment is being covered up. The Integrity Line is operated by an external company with experience in this area, and is available around the clock seven days a week.
Cases of discrimination (GRI 406-1)
According to the annual Group-wide survey of the Code of Conduct, there were two cases of sexual harassment in the workplace in the reporting year, with one accused person in each case. Both the accused people have left the company and the cases are closed. Furthermore, there was one complaint concerning discrimination. The complaint was followed up but could not be upheld.