Common Ethic Code Provisions

Below are some common provisions found in organizational codes.

The list of provisions is not exhaustive, nor are the category headings definitive. Organizations tend to label and categorized their code provisions in many different ways depending on their unique characteristics, their goals for the code and so forth.

Similarly, code content (i.e. provisions) can vary substantially across organizations depending on their industry, regulations/requirements and goals for the code.

Employment Practices

• Workplace Harassment
• Equal Opportunity
• Diversity
• Fair Treatment of Staff
• Work-Family Balance
• Discrimination
• Illegal Drugs and Alcohol
• Use of Organization Property

Employee, Client and Vendor Information

• Maintaining Records and Information
• Privacy and Confidentiality
• Disclosure of Information

Public Information/Communications

• Advertising and Marketing
• Development and Fundraising
• Clarity of Information
• Access to Information
• Transparency of Information

Conflicts of Interest

• Gifts and Gratuities
• Political Activity
• Outside Employment
• Family Members

Relationships with vendors

• Procurement
• Negotiating Contracts

Environmental Issues

• Commitment to the Environment
• Employee Health and Safety

Ethical Management Practices

• Accuracy of books and records and expense reports
• Proper use of organizational assets
• Protecting proprietary information

Employment Practices

• Proper Exercise of Authority
• Employee Volunteer Activities

Conflicts of Interest

• Disclosure of Financial Interests

Political Involvement

• Political Activities