Global principles on working conditions
Our corporate strategy is based on the principles of sustainable development – achieving a sensible balance between economic, ecological and social needs, without in any way compromising the development opportunities of future generations. Our global principles on working conditions are based on this philosophy.
No child labor.
Cognis strictly opposes child labour. In all affiliated companies world wide, Cognis in compliance with our principle of sustainable entrepreneurship does not employ children under the age of 16 years and thus exceeds the criteria of the international human rights standards and the ILO (International Labour Organization) conventions. Consequently, in countries without national legislation governing the minimum working age, or in less-developed countries, where the problem of child labour chiefly occurs, it is our standard practice to independently guarantee that children under 16 years are not employed.
No forced labor.
Another pillar of our philosophy concerning working conditions is the fact that forced or compulsory labour in all forms is strictly opposed by Cognis. At Cognis, no work will be performed from any person under the menace of any penalty and for which the said person has not offered himself voluntarily.
Health and Safety.
Cognis provides a safe and healthy working environment and takes pro-active actions to continuously improve safety and health conditions and in resolving potential issues.
Appropriate payment.
As a matter of principle, Cognis’ wages meet legal requirements and are sufficient to meet “basic needs” with some discretionary income. We respect trade unions, who rightfully represent employees and we respect the rights of workers to bargain collectively. If bargaining is legally restricted, we will facilitate parallel means of free association. We respect the dignity of the individual and the right of employees to freedom of association.
Employee development.
We will recruit, employ and promote employees on the basis of the qualifications and abilities needed for the work to be performed. In working with employees it is our intention to develop and enhance each individual's skills and capabilities. Furthermore, the Cognis College offers corporate training programs to address our global and regional Management Development needs in line with our Cultural Principles. The College aims to improve Cognis’ performance through development of its managers and to foster a common company culture as expressed in our Cultural Principles.
No discrimination.
At the same time we comply with applicable laws and regulations governing equal employment opportunities and no discrimination of individuals or groups is tolerated. This implies the absence of any form of worker harassment.