SUPPLIER CODE
OF CONDUCT

Introduction

The main objective of Opus’s Code of Conduct is to promote a workplace that is inclusive, collaborative and safe for all.  Opus is dedicated to creating and upholding an environment that is respectful, welcoming, and supportive of everyone regardless of gender, sexual orientation, abilities, ethnicity, socio-economic status, religion, or non-religious beliefs.

Scope

This Opus Supplier Code of Conduct outlines the core expectations for all Opus suppliers, vendors, contractors, consultants and other third-party providers of goods and services to Opus (collectively referred to in this document as “Suppliers”).

Suppliers are expected to meet the standards and requirements in this Code of Conduct in connection with all engagements they have with Opus and Opus staff, and are required to ensure the same standards and requirements are met in relation to their own staff and any third parties they use to support their engagements with Opus.

The Code applies equally to professional functions and events, whether organised by Opus or Supplier or a third party, and whether inside or outsides normal business hours.  It applies also where Opus staff are working away from Opus premises.

Business Ethics

Suppliers are expected to conduct their business with integrity, avoiding corruption and unethical practices. This includes maintaining transparency in their operations and respecting the rights of workers.

Laws and Regulations

Supplier will maintain awareness of and will comply at all times with applicable laws, rules, regulations and other mandatory requirements in the United Kingdom and in all other jurisdictions where the Supplier conducts business.

In particular, Supplier will adhere at all times to the requirements of UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, as well as the Bribery Act 2010 and the Modern Slavery Act 2015.

Labour Standards; Wages

Suppliers must not use forced, bonded, or indentured labour. Employment must be voluntary, and suppliers are prohibited from employing child labour. They must also respect workers’ rights to freely chosen employment and ensure fair wages and working hours.

Discrimination

An inclusive, collaborative and diverse work environment is encouraged, with equal opportunities for all workers. All employees must be treated fairly and not discriminated against in any form of employment. Opus expects its Suppliers to share its commitment to equal opportunities in the workplace and must not discriminate against any employee based on race, religion, age, nationality, skin colour, gender, gender identity, disability, pregnancy, marital status, political affiliation, military status, sexual orientation, union membership or any other status protected by applicable law.

Harassment

Suppliers are required to implement and maintain clear anti-harassment policies and procedures. Such policies and procedures are to cover harassment in all its forms, including threatening, abusive, harmful or demeaning behaviour.

These policies must include provisions for regular training and support for both workers and managers, enabling them to identify, report, and prevent harassment in the workplace. Suppliers must ensure that all complaints of harassment are investigated promptly and thoroughly, and that appropriate disciplinary action is taken where necessary.

Suppliers must strictly prohibit all forms of sexual harassment, whether physical or verbal, including any unwanted conduct of a sexual nature or conduct related to sex that violates an individual’s dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.

Health and Safety

Suppliers are required to provide a safe and healthy workplace, complying with all applicable laws and regulations. This includes ensuring access to clean facilities and managing occupational health risks.

Environment

Suppliers must comply with environmental laws and regulations, minimising their environmental impact and promoting sustainability in their operations.

Suppliers must have clear procedures in place to ensure any direct and indirect environmental impacts associated with goods and services provided are understood, measured and managed. Opus encourages the efficient use of natural resources including supporting renewable energy sources.

Compliance and Monitoring

Opus monitors compliance with these principles and expects its suppliers to implement similar standards with their own suppliers. Non-compliance can lead to consequences, including termination of the Supplier’s business relationship with Opus.

Reporting Concerns

Suppliers are invited to report any area of concern regarding their or others’ compliance with this Code of Conduct via email to [email protected].