Code of Conduct for Open Water & Suppliers
OVERVIEW
At Open Water, we value partnerships built on integrity, sustainability, and respect for human rights. This Code is grounded in Open Water’s commitment to integrity, sustainability, and respect for people and the planet. All suppliers of goods, ingredients, services, or other deliverables—including vendors, contractors, consultants, and service providers—are expected to comply with the standards outlined in this Code.
These standards reflect Open Water’s own commitments and guide how we operate internally. We hold ourselves, our employees, and our suppliers to the same expectations outlined in this Code. It reflects not only how we do business, but what we stand for.
From the date this Code is shared with suppliers or their representatives, they will have thirty (30) days to request clarification. After that period, your continued supply of goods or services to Open Water will be considered acceptance of the Code. We are committed to working collaboratively with partners to meet these standards and support continuous improvement. Please note, however, that if suppliers object to any part of the Code, we may terminate or decline to enter into an agreement with supplier upon written notice. Supplier is responsible for reviewing the most current version of the Code, which will remain publicly posted on Open Water’s website. Supplier's continued partnership after any updates are posted will be considered acceptance of the revised terms, which are automatically incorporated into any existing agreements.
Employees, suppliers, and stakeholders are encouraged to report concerns or violations of this Code. Open Water prohibits retaliation against anyone who raises concerns in good faith and is committed to investigating and addressing issues appropriately. Open Water is committed to addressing any internal violations of this Code through appropriate corrective action.
SCOPE & APPLICABILITY
This Code applies to Open Water employees, leadership, contractors, and suppliers. While certain provisions are directed specifically at suppliers, the principles reflect the standards Open Water applies across its own operations.
We will:
- Operate with integrity, transparency, and accountability
- Foster a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace
- Minimize environmental impact and lead on sustainability
- Partner with suppliers who align with these values
- Continuously improve our practices and standards
1. Legal Compliance
Open Water operates in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations and expects the same from its suppliers. We all must:
• Operate in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and standards.
• Adhere to anti-corruption laws and refrain from bribery, corruption, or unethical practices.
2. Labor Practices and Human Rights
Open Water is committed to upholding human rights and fair labor practices across its operations and supply chain. Suppliers must:
• Employ only individuals of legal working age, ensuring no child labor.
• Ensure all labor is voluntary, prohibiting forced, bonded, or compulsory labor.
• Provide safe, healthy, and fair working conditions for all workers.
• Maintain a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, or abuse.
• Pay fair and timely wages, at least meeting legal and industry standards.
• Provide a mechanism for employees to report concerns without fear of retaliation.
3. Environmental Responsibility
Open Water is committed to upholding environmental responsibility and leadership across its operations and supply chain. Suppliers are expected to:
• Minimize their environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.
• Comply with all applicable environmental laws and regulations.
4. Health and Safety
Open Water operates in full compliance with best health and safety practices across its operations and supply chain. Suppliers must:
• Provide a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.
• Maintain effective emergency preparedness and response procedures.
5. Ethical Business Practices
Open Water is committed to upholding ethical business practices across its operations and supply chain. Suppliers must:
• Conduct business with integrity, honesty, and transparency.
• Respect intellectual property rights and safeguard confidentiality.
• Engage in fair business practices and avoid anti-competitive behavior.
6. Continuous Improvement and Monitoring
Open Water is committed to continual improvement and monitoring across its operations and supply chain. Suppliers agree to:
• Regularly assess their practices to ensure alignment with this Code of Conduct.
• Allow Open Water to conduct audits to verify compliance as needed.
• Promptly address and correct any identified violations.
