Merit Medical Systems, Inc. prides itself on conducting business in an ethical manner. Merit expects internal employees to follow Merit’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics in all aspects of business, including dealings with suppliers. Merit suppliers are viewed as an extension of Merit, and therefore are expected to adhere to similar guidelines for ethical business practices. Merit Medical’s Code of Conduct for Suppliers defines minimum requirements for Merit suppliers to uphold as Merit business partners.
Merit strives to develop and foster supplier relationships based on fair, ethical business practices including: complying with all applicable laws, rules and regulations; promoting a workplace free of discrimination and harassment; sponsoring workplace health and safety; conducting operations in an environmentally responsible manner; and engaging in lawful, voluntary labor practices.
Compliance with Laws, Rules and Regulations
Complying with the law, both in letter and in spirit, is the foundation on which Merit’s ethical standards are built. Merit expects all suppliers to respect and comply with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Discrimination and Harassment
Merit values diversity within the supply chain, and is committed to supporting equal opportunity in all aspects of business operations. Merit does not tolerate any employee discrimination or harassment of any kind, and expects suppliers to uphold this viewpoint in their day-to-day business operations.
Health and Safety
Merit expects all suppliers to provide their employees with a safe and healthy work environment. This includes establishing and following health and safety rules, and reporting accidents, injuries, unsafe practices and working conditions. Merit expects suppliers to have a zero-tolerance policy for all employees regarding violent or threatening behaviors and illegal drug use.
Environmental Responsibility
Merit is conscious and protective of the environment in all aspects of our business dealings, and expects all suppliers to be mindful of the environment and seek to minimize environmental impacts wherever possible. Merit expects all suppliers to provide accurate, timely responses to requests for materials information to support Merit’s compliance with domestic and international regulations.
Labor Practices (Child Labor, Forced Labor, Bargaining Rights)
Merit expects suppliers to ensure all employees are of appropriate, legal working age as dictated by local laws, and ensure their workplaces do not employ individuals against their will. Merit expects suppliers to follow all local laws regarding employees’ rights to lawfully organize, join associations or bargain collectively.
Merit Medical’s Code of Conduct for Suppliers is communicated to suppliers and is monitored for compliance through supplier agreements and supplier audits.