Structured management approach
AkzoNobel’s way of doing business is based on the rules and principles as set out in our Code of Conduct. They govern our commitments and responsibilities to shareholders, employees and customers, as well as to suppliers and other business partners, the communities in which we operate and the environment. Each of these compliance areas includes mandatory standards, management systems and objectives to drive improvement, as well as training and auditing commitments.
Risk management
Effective risk management is a fundamental business foundation. The integrated AkzoNobel risk management process considers all relevan environmental, social and governance issues. For specific risks of public concern, AkzoNobel develops position papers and where necessary draws up improvement plans which are made accountable to a corporate staff member.
Code of Conduct (economic/governance)
Compliance and integrity management are the backbone of AkzoNobel’s governance process and form the basis for our license to operate. At its core is our Code of Conduct, which lays out rules and principles governing issues such as business integrity, labor relations, health, safety and the environment, and community involvement. To ensure effective compliance, integrated procedures and management processes are in place, overseen by a corporate compliance committee and business unit compliance officers. These include a Speak Up! Procedure which provides employees with an alternative route to report any violations of the Code.
Health, Safety, Environment and Security management (social)
A strong culture of health and safety is, and will remain, an essential basis for the success and enduring competitiveness of this company. We have put in place a strong and progressive Health, Safety, Environment and Security (HSE&S) policy, with global standards. Our HSE management systems are based on international standards and legislation and include stretched targets and objectives with regular internal and external audits. The Executive Committee is fully committed to achieving continuous performance improvement and the ongoing training of all our employees in good HSE practice.
Employment practices (social)
Attracting and retaining a talented and innovative workforce and honing the skills of our employees in response to new market challenges remains a core component of our overall business strategy.
This naturally means having systems to allow us to identify, secure and retain the services of the talented individuals. Creating a Talent Factory is only possible when employees are given the opportunity to excel and grow, are able to work in an open and supportive working environment and are rewarded with competitive packages.
Product stewardship (environmental)
To fulfill our quality and sustainability performance requirements regarding the lifecycle management of our products and processes, we continue to seek to upgrade our product stewardship systems.
This product-centered approach calls on all stakeholders involved in the product lifecycle – from our suppliers, to us as manufacturer, through to retailers, users and disposers – to take and share responsibility for reducing the environmental impact of our products and their components throughout the supply chain.
Our product stewardship systems allow us to manage and guarantee the safety of our products and ensure compliance to all international and local regulation, such as REACH the new European Community regulation on chemicals and their safe use, and the European VOC legislation.