Compliance and Integrity

The SGS Group has a compliance program, based on its Code of Integrity and Professional Conduct, to ensure that the highest standards of integrity are applied to all its activities worldwide in accordance with international best practice.

Through an interactive E-learning Program, SGS has also implemented an educative tool which helps integrating the general principles contained in the Code into its different businesses. In this program, employees are confronted with issues arising in their day-to-day business activities.

In September 2005, SGS has launched its first Annual Integrity Training Programme to be completed by the end of September 2006. The Annual Integrity Training will be conducted each year as a periodic refresher of the principles of our Code of Integrity by each supervisor/manager for his staff. A record of the participation of each employee shall be kept so as to ensure that all staff has undergone the training. Specific integrity training sessions for supervisors/managers have been conducted. The Annual Integrity Training is independent of the E-learning program, which is available on the Internet in English, French, Spanish and Chinese and will continue to be used as a permanent training tool especially for the induction of new employees.

The Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for implementing procedures governing the ethical behavior of employees and consultants, and for conducting investigations on alleged staff misconduct. He also sets the standards of integrity that SGS expects of its business partners.

Reports on suspected violations of the Code can be submitted or advice obtained by calling the Integrity Helpline or by filing a written report online or sending it by fax or mail.