If you ever have a concern regarding unethical activity, don’t keep it to yourself. Speak up.

Why is Ethical Business Conduct So Important?

High standards are more than a slogan or catch phrase. They represent the way we do business.

Maintaining high standards means conducting business ethically and legally. Adhering to these standards helps us protect the reputation for excellence and integrity that we’ve built as an organization.

Why Care About Business Issues?

Business conduct violations can result in serious consequences for individuals, even imprisonment under some circumstances.

Organizations may also be financially penalized through lawsuits or claims, resulting in fines and/or restrictions placed on business activities. Most importantly, violations of business conduct make everyone a victim. The negative impact on you personally and professionally can be severe.

How Can I Help Maintain High Standards of Business Conduct?

1. Think Before You Act

Ask yourself:

• Is it illegal?
• Does it violate our organization’s standards or policies?
• Could it cause loss or harm to you, your co-workers, the public, our organization, or organizations that do business with us?
• Would you feel uncomfortable if everyone knew what you did?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, the action is very likely wrong, and you should avoid it.

If the answers aren’t clear, don’t take a chance. Consult our organization’s policy or speak to management. When you think before you act and make the right decision, you uphold our high standards and set a good example for others to follow.

2. Speak Up!

Use Peer Influence

If you see or suspect business conduct violations, don’t ignore the situation. Say something to express your concern. Your influence could help prevent a friend from making a big mistake.

Discuss It

If the situation doesn’t improve and peer influence isn’t appropriate, don’t ignore it. Ignoring business conduct violations only allows the problem to grow more costly and frustrating.

If you have a concern or question regarding business conduct issues, discuss it with the appropriate supervisor or manager.

A Completely Confidential Option

If you don’t feel comfortable discussing your concerns internally, you may contact NAVEX Global, an independent reporting service that allows you to communicate your concerns anonymously and confidentially via Internet or telephone anytime, day or night.

Here’s What Happens

1. You will be given the option to remain anonymous. A customized web form or professional interview specialist will document your concern in detail.
2. Your information will be relayed to our organization for appropriate follow-up.

1. You may be asked to check back to provide additional information or answer questions as we investigate your concern.
2. Reports submitted to NAVEX Global are handled promptly and discreetly. Retaliation against anyone who reports a concern is a violation of our organization’s principles and will not be tolerated.

That’s all it takes to speak up. In just a few minutes, you’ve done your part to make our organization a better place to work.

Speak Up

Discuss any concerns with the appropriate supervisor or manager.

If you prefer to remain anonymous, contact NAVEX Global.

Report Online:
acehardware.ethicspoint.com

Call Toll-Free:
877-516-3384

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Anytime, from any location. You do not have to give your name.

Common Examples of Business Conduct Issues

• Conflicts of Interest
• Accounting or Auditing Irregularities
• Theft or Fraud
• Disclosure of Proprietary Information
• Misuse of Assets
• Antitrust or Competition Violations
• Improper Dealings with Customers or Vendors
• Use or Sale of Illegal Drugs
• Creating or Ignoring Safety Hazards

NAVEX Global is an independent organization that provides an anonymous reporting service for organizations worldwide. This service is not intended as a substitute for speaking directly with management. It is available if you want to help but don’t feel comfortable speaking up in person.