Michael Foods, Inc Business Conduct Policy
Revised 12/21/2004
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Overview of Policy and Administration
Ethical Business Practice
Employee Responsibilities
Business Conduct Committee
Reporting and Investigating Violations
Discipline and Employee Evaluation
Education and Certification
Business Conduct Policies
Employee Relations
A. Human Resource Policy Manual
B. Employment Authorization
C. Non-Discrimination
D. Harassment
E. Drugs and Alcohol
F. Political Activities and Contributions
G. Workplace Violence
Relationship with Governments
A. Doing Business with Governmental Agencies
B. Hiring Current and Former Government Employees
C. Lobbying
D. Business Courtesies
Accounting and Record Keeping
A. Accurate Books and Records
B. Receipt of Legal Documents by Employees
C. Use and Protection of Company Property
Conflicts of Interest
A. Conflict Situations that Require Management Approval
B. Conflicts Arising from Personal Relationships
C. Giving or Receiving Business Courtesies
Business Information
A. Disclosure of Information to the Public
B. Protection of Confidential Information
C. Crisis Communications
Trading in Securities
A. Trading on Non-Public Information
B. Definition of "Material, Non-Public Information"
C. Precautionary Measures
Competitive Information Policy
A. Gathering and Using Competitive Information
B. Hiring Competitors' Employees
Antitrust Compliance
A. Antitrust Laws
B. Dealing with Competitors
C. Relations with Customers
Environmental Laws, Occupational Health and Safety, and Product Safety
A. Environmental Compliance
B. Occupational Health and Safety
C. Product Safety and Recall
Transacting International Business
A. Payment for Goods and Services
B. Payment to Foreign Officials
C. Customs Laws
D. Financial Books and Records
OVERVIEW OF POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION
Ethical Business
Practice. Michael
Foods and its subsidiaries take pride in our well-earned reputation
for conducting our business with the highest integrity and honesty
and in compliance with all legal requirements. Even though we live
and operate in an increasingly complex world of laws, government
regulations and procedures, we consider those laws, procedures and
regulations as minimum standards for the conduct of our business. Our
principles are grounded in the idea of providing the highest value to
our customers. In that regard, we value and respect our customers,
suppliers and employees and the communities in which we operate. We
are committed to protecting our environment and the safety of all of
the people whose lives we touch. To that end, we want to be a company
that you are proud to be a part of.
With these principles in mind, your Board of Directors has adopted a
Business Conduct Policy to assist each and every employee in
understanding their obligation to comply with the laws and
regulations applicable to our business and to the high ethical
standards to which we are committed. For the purposes of this
Business Conduct Policy, "employee" includes all officers,
directors and employees, as well as any independent contractors
working with Michael Foods on a regular and on-going basis.
Employee
Responsibilities.
Michael Foods' employees are expected to comply with all
laws, regulations and the Michael Foods Business Conduct Policies.
Each employee is responsible to know and understand the legal and
policy requirements applicable to their job and to notify management
when they believe a violation of law or the policies has
occurred. Supervisors
and managers must certify that they have read and understand the
Business Conduct Policy and agree to abide by the letter and spirit
of the policy. Supervisors and managers have the following
responsibilities for themselves and the employees and other
contracting parties under their supervision:
To ensure that all of their subordinates receive and understand the
Business Conduct Policy and any supplemental operating procedures
that relate to their Michael Foods' business activities.
To prevent violations of laws and Michael Foods' policies.
To detect and report violations of laws and Michael Foods'
policies.
To periodically review the policies with there direct subordinates.
Supervisory and management employees may be required to sign a
statement indicating that they and those who directly report to them
are aware of the laws and Michael Foods' Business Conduct
Policies that relate to their activities and that they know of no
violations of such laws or policies that have occurred since the
preceding certification that have not been reported to their
management or to the Business Conduct Committee.
Business Conduct
Committee. The
Board of Directors of Michael Foods has established a Business
Conduct Committee to supervise the implementation and operation of
the Business Conduct Policy and address legal compliance issues. The
committee has the responsibility to establish compliance standards
and procedures. Its duties and responsibilities include the
following:
To establish and administer the Company's Business Conduct
Policy to assure compliance with law and highest ethical business
practices.
To communicate those policies effectively to employees through
education and training, publications and other appropriate means.
To monitor and audit reporting mechanisms to assure compliance.
To initiate and direct investigations of possible violations.
To direct enforcement of the policies through appropriate measures,
including discipline of employees and directing remedial action.
To report and make recommendations to the Board of Directors
concerning matters relating to compliance with the Business Conduct
Policy and legal requirements.
The members of the committee and their telephone numbers are set
forth below
Telephone No.
Dennis
Woodward
(952) 258-4733 Vice
President – Human Resources MFI
Dick Howe (952) 258-4797
Director of Corporate Services
John D.
Reedy
(952) 258-4901 Vice
President – Finance and Treasurer
You may contact committee members at their office telephone numbers.
In addition, the committee has established a compliance InTouch third
party hotline number that you may call to discuss Business Conduct
Policy compliance issues or to report suspected violations. In all
cases, your identity will remain anonymous if you so request.
The InTouch
third party hotline number is: 866-MFINPUT (866-634-6788)
If the information you are reporting involves any of the committee
members listed above or senior management, you should report
compliance issues or suspected violations of the Business Conduct
Policy directly to the audit committee at the following special audit
committee InTouch third party hotline number: 1-866-634-6788.
The transcripts will only be monitored by members of the audit
committee, and your identity will remain anonymous if you so request.
Reporting
and Investigating Violations.
Protecting Michael Foods' reputation is every employee's
responsibility. If you believe that another Michael Foods'
employee, consultant or contract worker or a business unit of Michael
Foods is violating the law or the Company's policies or is
engaging in activity that could damage Michael Foods'
reputation, you are urged to bring your information to the attention
of management. You may report a violation to your supervisor, any
member of the Business Conduct Committee or to the InTouch hotline.
Violations and suspected violations should be reported immediately.
In other words, you should not delay in reporting a violation while
you wait for more "hard evidence."
You are not required to disclose your identity to bring your concerns
or questions to the attention of management. You can be assured that
such confidentiality will extend not only to you, but will include
the person about whom the report is made. Anyone, who violates an
employee's right to confidentiality or anonymity in connection
with a reported instance, will be subject to disciplinary action up
to and including dismissal.
It is absolutely forbidden for any employee to punish or conduct
reprisals against another employee who has reported a suspected
violation of law or of the Business Conduct Policy.
Each report of a known or suspected violation will be promptly and
thoroughly investigated. In all cases, the investigation will
document all actions taken and decisions reached and a report will be
prepared even if the investigation reveals that no violation
occurred. Every report
should be taken seriously. Each report will be handled at a
supervisory level appropriate to the nature of the reported matter.
In other words, it is the Company's policy to successfully
resolve the matters at the lowest supervisory level. Serious cases
may be resolved only at the senior management or Board of Directors
level. Unless directed
or charged by management, employees will not investigate alleged
violations of the law or the Business Conduct Policy. Such
investigations will be conducted under the direction of the Business
Conduct Committee or at the appropriate management level.
Discipline
and Employee Evaluation.
When an employee is suspected of violating the law or the
Business Conduct Policy, the employee will be allowed a reasonable
opportunity to explain his or her actions. When an employee is
determined to have engaged in a violation, he or she may be subject
to discipline under this policy and the Michael Foods Human Resource
Policy, up to and including termination of employment. Michael Foods
strives to apply discipline in a reasonable and consistent fashion;
however, the form of discipline, which is appropriate, will be
determined on a case by case basis.
Compliance with the law and the Business Conduct Policy will be one
factor on which employees will be evaluated for compensation and
advancement. Employees who deliberately withhold information
concerning another employee's violation of law or these
policies will also be subject to appropriate discipline. Employees
who withhold compliance information out of fear of retaliation may
use the InTouch hotline and may remain anonymous.
As in the case of the Human Resource Policy Manual of the Company,
nothing in this manual is intended to create enforceable employee
contract rights.
Education
and Certification.
The Business Conduct Policy and compliance with laws that are
related to your job performance will be communicated to you.
Employees whose job functions are subject to additional specific
requirements (for example, employees in international sales may
require an understanding of particular local legal requirements) must
understand and comply with those additional requirements.
Upon hire and periodically thereafter, employees will be required to
review the business conduct policies applicable to their job
requirements. All employees will be given a copy of the Business
Conduct Policy pamphlet and more detailed information will be
available from the Company's Human Resources Department. Each
salaried, supervisory and management employee must certify that they
have read and understand the Business Conduct Policy annually and
agree to abide by the letter and spirit of each.
BUSINESS
CONDUCT POLICIES
Employee
Relations. A.
Human Resource Policy Manual. Michael Foods
published a Human Resource Policy Manual, which provides guidelines
relating to the terms and conditions of your employment. The
policies set forth in the manual will, to the extent possible, be
implemented in a consistent and non-discriminatory manner and each
employee is expected to be familiar with those policies.
If you have any questions relating to aspects of your employment that
are covered by the Human Resource Policy Manual, please contact your
supervisor or your unit Human Resource Department.
B. Employment Authorization. It is Michael Foods'
policy to comply with all state and federal laws relating to the
employment of minors and generally will not employ applicants under
18 years of age. Individuals between 16 and 18 years old may be
considered for employment when the work is not of a heavy or
hazardous nature as defined by the Rules and Regulations of the
Secretary of Labor. Permission for employing a minor applicant must
be obtained from the Human Resources Department. No individual under
18 years of age shall be permitted to operate any motor vehicle in
connection with Company business.
It is Michael Foods' policy to comply with the Immigration
Reform and Control Act of 1986 by employing only individuals lawfully
entitled to work in the United States. Applicants who have accepted
offers of employment must provide original documentation verifying
their identity and authorization to work in the United States within
three (3) days of beginning work. If an employee fails to provide the
documentation, he or she may be discharged. Documentation considered
acceptable for proof of identity and employment are determined by the
Immigration and Naturalization Service. This means that applicants
must provide a completed I-9 form. This policy is further explained
in the Human Resource Policy Manual and is applicable to all
employees having hiring authority.
The Company will conduct background verifications for all prospective
hires and internal transfers whenever the prospective or existing
employee will have substantial discretionary authority in their new
position. Whether a given employee or prospective employee will be
exercising substantial discretionary authority will be determined on
a case by case basis. The results of the background verification will
be disclosed only as required by law. The purpose of the background
verification is to insure that the Company's hiring and
internal transfer decisions are made with the best possible
information and to avoid delegation of substantial discretionary
authority to persons who might pose a risk with respect to violations
of law or the Business Conduct Policy.
C. Non-Discrimination. Michael Foods is committed
to give equal opportunity in employment, training, compensation and
promotion to each individual without regard to race, sex, sexual
orientation, marital status, color, creed, religion, national origin,
age, disability, veteran status or the receipt of public assistance.
Michael Foods will also provide reasonable accommodation to disabled
applicants and employees to enable them to be considered for and
perform those positions for which they are qualified. Michael Foods
will not tolerate any action that is inconsistent with this policy.
Managers and
supervisors have a special responsibility in insuring that the
nondiscrimination goals of the Company are met. Not only must they
personally conduct themselves in a manner consistent with this
policy, but they are also responsible for establishing and
maintaining a climate in the workplace that allows all employees to
do their job effectively. Managers and supervisors must identify
incidents of discrimination immediately and take corrective action in
accordance with the policy.
D. Harassment. As a corollary to the
discrimination policy, Michael Foods will not tolerate any form of
harassment based on sex, color, religion, national origin, age or
disability. Specifically, we are committed to an environment free of
unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other
verbal or physical conduct or communications constituting sexual
harassment as defined by state and federal statutes or harassment
based on color, religion, marital status, sexual orientation,
national origin, age or disability.
No supervisor shall threaten or insinuate, either explicitly or
implicitly, that an employee's refusal to submit to sexual
advances will adversely affect the employee's employment,
evaluation, wages, advancement, assigned duties, shifts, or any other
condition of employment or career development.
Other harassing conduct in the workplace is prohibited. This includes
offensive jokes, racial or religious slurs, sexual advances,
propositions, verbal abuse of a sexual nature, graphic verbal
commentaries about an individual's body and the display in the
workplace of sexually suggestive objects or pictures.
Managers and supervisors are responsible to insure that no activities
are allowed to take place at work, which create an intimidating,
hostile or offensive work environment.
The harassment policies of Michael Foods extend to non-employees such
as customers, suppliers, visitors and others. Employees may not
engage in any conduct with a customer, supplier, visitor or others
that would be a violation of the Company's harassment
policy. If an employee
feels that he or she is being harassed or is being subjected to a
hostile work environment, they should immediately report the
harassment or incident to your immediate supervisor, the unit Human
Resources Department, another manager with whom you feel comfortable
in discussing the incident or you may use the Company's InTouch
hotline. Complaints will be promptly and thoroughly investigated and
the Company will take reasonable precautions to maintain the
confidentiality of those individuals reporting incidents of
harassment.
E.
Drugs and Alcohol. Michael Foods prohibits the use of illegal
drugs by employees. The possession on Company property or misuse of
alcohol or drugs by employees in any manner, which affects safety
and/or their job performance, is also prohibited. Specific additional
policies may apply to those employees whose job responsibilities
involve significant safety issues such as truck drivers and equipment
operators. When
Michael Foods deems it necessary to conduct any drug and alcohol
testing of job applicants or current employees, such testing will be
performed only in accordance with a previously distributed, written
drug and alcohol testing policy that conforms to applicable federal,
state and local laws.
Legal drugs are permitted on Michael Foods property only if the
medication has been prescribed by a licensed physician, the
prescription was filled by a registered pharmacist within the last
twelve (12) months for the person who is in possession of the
medication and the medication is in a labeled container from the
pharmacy. Employees who are taking prescribed medications that could
affect safety or performance are required to consult with their
physician about the medication's effect on their ability to
perform their job requirements safely and disclose any restrictions
or safety hazards to their supervisor.
The Company reserves the right in cases where reasonable suspicion
exists that an employee has violated this policy, to conduct
unannounced inspections and searches, with appropriate security or
law enforcement officials for alcohol or illegal drugs in employee
work areas and other Company property, including, but not limited to
employee's lockers, tool chests, purses, lunch pails, brief
cases, desks and Company owned or leased vehicles. Refusal to permit
or cooperate in such inspections or searches will be treated in the
same manner and with the same consequences as a refusal to test. If a
substance which could constitute a violation of this policy is
discovered during a search, that substance may be tested under the
terms of this policy or turned over to law enforcement officials.
The Company reserves
the right to search any Company property at any time, with or without
cause, including but not limited to lockers, desks, offices, work
stations and Company provided vehicles and equipment.
F. Political Activities and Contributions.
Michael Foods does not permit political campaign or partisan
political activities of any type on Michael Foods property. An
exception to this policy may be authorized in connection with
communications by political candidates personally with employees
outside buildings located on Michael Foods property, provided that
the activity takes place on public property, the passage of
individuals and the conduct of the Company's business is not
disturbed, individuals are not compelled in any way to communicate
with or participate in the activity, and, equal treatment of
candidates is provided, if requested.
Michael Foods does not permit the use of any of its facilities,
including conference facilities, telephones, fax machines, word
processors and copying machines or its name or trademark in any form
to be used for political campaign or fundraising or partisan
political purposes. Employees may not participate in off-site
partisan political activities during paid working hours and may not
do so on Michael Foods premises at any time.
Employees who wish to wear, tee shirts, hats or other articles of
clothing that bear political messages or refer to a political
candidate may be allowed to do so on Michael Foods property if it is
appropriate attire and not disruptive.
No corporate funds may be paid directly or indirectly to a political
party or a political candidate or incumbent. Employee participation
in the political system must be of a personal nature and in no way
involve the Company or imply involvement of the Company.
G. Workplace Violence. It is the policy of
Michael Foods to promote the safety of all of its employees,
customers, suppliers and visitors and maintain a safe and secure work
environment. Acts of violence, stalking, threatening physical or
aggressive conduct, harassing or threatening telephone calls or other
inappropriate hostile behavior against employees, customers,
suppliers or visitors to Company premises that would cause them to
reasonably be in fear for their personal safety will not be
tolerated. Such acts will be thoroughly investigated and appropriate
disciplinary action may be taken up to and including termination
and/or filing of charges with law enforcement authorities. Any threat
made will be taken to mean exactly what is stated and will be
presumed intentional. Michael Foods encourages all employees to
promptly and accurately report incidents involving threats or acts of
violence. No reprisals will be taken against those who in good faith
report workplace violence or threats of violence.
Michael Foods will not permit the possession of any weapons on
Company property. Weapons will include any form of weapon or
explosives restricted under local, state or federal regulations,
including firearms, knives or other weapons covered by the law.
Michael Foods reserves the right to conduct searches of any person,
vehicle or object that enters onto Company property, including search
of lockers, desks, purses, brief cases, baggage, tool boxes, lunch
pails, clothing, vehicles parked on Company property or vehicles used
for Company purposes regardless of whether or not the vehicle is on
Company property. Refusal to permit a search may result in
disciplinary proceedings up to and including termination of
employment. Carrying a weapon onto Company property in violation of
this policy will be considered an act of criminal trespass and will
be grounds for immediate removal from the property and may result in
prosecution.
Relationship
with Governments.
A. Doing Business with Governmental Agencies. It is
Michael Foods' policy to comply with all applicable rules,
regulations, and contract requirements of all governmental agencies
with which we do business. Listed below are some of the important
subjects that you should be familiar with before you begin doing
business with a federal, state or local governmental agency or with a
company that has a contract with any government agency:
Gifts and gratuities, also known as business courtesies. The
Company's policy with regard to business courtesies is set
forth elsewhere in this manual.
Contract negotiation requirements, such as bidding rules and
providing accurate, complete and current cost and pricing data.
Selection of procurement sources, such as minority set asides,
qualified suppliers and affirmative action plan requirements.
Free samples.
Contract obligations, such as special pricing and intellectual
property rights.
Government security requirements.
Hiring current and former government employees. This subject is
dealt with elsewhere in this manual.
Making false statements or certifying false data to government
agencies.
B. Hiring Current and Former Government Employees.
Complex and constantly changing rules govern the recruitment and
employment of current and former government employees in private
industry. The rules vary according to the employment status of the
employee and the functions they performed while employed by the
government. Therefore, each situation must be considered on a case by
case basis. Prior to any offer of employment to a current or former
government employee, you should consult with the Human Resources
Department or Company counsel.
Prior clearance from Human Resources is also required to discuss
possible employment with, or make offers to or hire as an employee or
consultant any member of the immediate family of a current government
employee who is in a position to direct or influence significantly
the regulatory or contractual treatment of Michael Foods or who is in
position to direct or influence the purchase of Michael Foods'
products by any government agency or department.
Former government employees who become Michael Foods employees or
consultants must strictly follow all government conflict of interest
laws, regulations and policies applicable to their former government
employment. Many
foreign countries have laws similar to those of the United States
government with respect to hiring government employees. It is Michael
Foods' policy to comply with all such laws and therefore, if
you have any questions regarding the hiring of or offer to hire any
former employee of a foreign government, you should first contact
Michael Foods' Human Resources Department or Company legal
counsel.
C.
Lobbying. Michael Foods will comply with all applicable laws,
rules and regulations relating to lobbying or attempting to influence
governmental officials. Lobbying activities will be authorized only
by the President of Michael Foods. Therefore, any communications on
behalf of the Company written or communicated to an elected official
or any government employee supporting or opposing legislation or
government action is prohibited unless authorized in advance by the
president of Michael Foods. Such communications may constitute
lobbying and would be illegal in some cases unless the Company had
first registered and complied with applicable lobbying laws.
D. Business Courtesies. Business courtesies
include gratuities, gifts, meals, cocktails, discounts, hospitality,
entertainment, recreation, tickets, promotional items, transportation
and any tangible or intangible thing of value for which the recipient
does not pay the market value and may also include the promise of
future employment or compensation. Michael Foods strictly prohibits
the giving of any business courtesies to government employees and
consultants. Federal, state and local governments often have very
specific and strict gratuity and bribery rules governing when and
under what circumstances their employees and consultants can receive
business courtesies or gratuities. Because of the complexity of these
rules, Michael Foods strictly prohibits the giving of any
business courtesies to employees and consultants of governmental
units. If you have any doubt as to whether a particular activity
involves a business courtesy, consult your supervisor.
Accounting and
Record Keeping.
A. Accurate Books and Records. All Michael Foods'
business units must comply with laws relating to the maintenance of
accurate and complete financial books and records. No Michael Foods'
funds or property can be used for any unlawful, improper or unethical
purposes; no undisclosed, unrecorded or secret fund or assets can be
established and no false or artificial entries can be made in Michael
Foods' financial books and records for any purpose. Michael
Foods' financial books and records must be maintained in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, Michael
Foods' fiscal procedures and all local and national laws
regarding the maintenance of corporate books and records. Among other
things, this means that items of income and expense are recorded when
earned or incurred and all underlying business records accurately
reflect the timing and amount of the transaction.
Michael Foods' internal control system has been established to
ensure that all corporate funds and assets are properly acquired,
safeguarded, disposed of and recorded on Michael Foods'
accounting records. Corporate liabilities must be properly incurred
and reported in Michael Foods' accounting records. External
financial reporting must be accurate and reliable and reflect the
business activity in the Company.
Every Michael Foods employee is responsible to cooperate fully with
the accounting and record keeping requirements including accurate
recording of time reports, product information, expense accounts,
financial accounts and journals, sales invoices and purchasing
documents, and documents submitted to government or regulatory
authorities. In addition, every Michael Foods employee must cooperate
fully with and provide full and complete information to internal
auditors and Michael Foods' independent certified public
accountants in the performance of their assigned duties.
When an employee signs or initials a request, report or other
official Company document such as an invoice, expense report or
financial report, that employee is certifying that to the best of his
or her knowledge the content of the document is complete and
accurate. If there is a mistake or misunderstanding, it should be
corrected immediately.
B.
Receipt of Legal Documents by Employees. Employees are not
authorized to accept service of legal documents for the Company or
any of its business units unless required by law to do so. Employees
who receive legal documents must immediately direct them to the
President of the Company. Legal documents include complaints,
subpoenas, court orders, garnishment notices, IRS levies, notices of
bankruptcy, and any other official communication from a federal,
state or local governmental agency that requires a response by the
Company.
C.
Use and Protection of Company Property. Michael Foods'
property and proprietary information are to be used solely for the
benefit of Michael Foods. All Michael Foods' employees are
responsible for the proper use of Michael Foods' property and
must safeguard this property against loss, damage, misuse or theft.
No employee may use Michael Foods' property for any use other
than Michael Foods' business, whether or not that use is for
personal benefit. Company property is not limited to personal
property or real property, but also includes intellectual property,
computer software, trade secrets, technology databases, proprietary
information and other non-public information about Michael Foods'
business. An employee
with access to confidential and proprietary information of Michael
Foods may be required to sign a separate confidentiality agreement,
which may impose obligations on the employee beyond termination of
employment.
Conflicts
of Interest.
A.
Conflict Situations that Require Management Approval.
Employees of the Company must avoid situations and activities where
their personal interests could conflict, or reasonably appear to
conflict, with the interest of Michael Foods. A conflict of interest
is any opportunity for personal gain by an employee apart from the
normal compensation provided through employment. Whether a conflict
exists is to be decided by management, and management's
decisions are final. Examples of real and potential conflict
situations that first must be approved by management include:
Competing directly or indirectly with any part of Michael Foods.
Having a direct or indirect financial interest in or financial
relationship with Michael Foods' competitors, suppliers or
customers (except insignificant stock interests in publicly held
companies).
Having full or part time employment or consulting relationships
outside Michael Foods.
Serving on the board of directors of a for profit non-affiliated
corporation.
Investing, except for insignificant stock interests in publicly
held companies, in an outside business opportunity in which Michael
Foods has an interest because of its relationship to existing
Michael Foods business or technology areas.
In all of these areas, you should consult with your supervisor and
prior management approval is required if a real or potential conflict
situation is found to exist.
This policy is not intended to prohibit employee participation in
bona fide charitable activities or similar non-profit organizations.
B. Conflicts Arising from Personal Relationships.
Personal relationships Michael Foods' employees have with those
outside Michael Foods or with fellow employees, such as business,
family, friendship or romantic relationships, can give rise to
conflicts of interest. A conflict exists where the parties in the
relationship receive or give unfair advantage or preferential
treatment because of the relationship. Even the appearance of a
conflict can damage an important Michael Foods interest. Michael
Foods does not prohibit personal relationships, but management is
responsible to take appropriate action, including disciplinary
action, to protect the Company, when a personal relationship
threatens to damage an important Company interest.
The Company does not encourage or discourage the employment of
relatives. However, as a general rule, unless approved by senior
management (for example in connection with the acquisition of a
family-owned business), an employee may not directly or indirectly
supervise a relative. Generally, without senior management approval,
employees related to each other will not be employed in the same
department or in separate departments in an area of the business
where the work may offer the opportunity for abuse of the
relationship. If you
have any questions regarding this policy, please contact the Human
Resources Department.
C. Giving or Receiving Business Courtesies.
Business courtesies and gratuities are gifts, such as Michael Foods'
products, meals, cocktails, discounts, hospitality, entertainment,
recreation, tickets, promotional items, transportation and any
tangible or intangible thing of value for which the recipient does
not pay the fair market value. Michael Foods' employees may not
accept or give any business courtesy or gratuity in their business
relationships that do not meet all of the following standards:
They do not violate the law, regulations, reasonable customs of the
marketplace or the known policy of the recipient or the recipient's
employer.
They are reasonable in cost, amount, quantity and frequency.
They are appropriate as to time and place.
They do not influence or give the appearance of influencing the
business judgment of the recipient.
They can stand public scrutiny without damaging Michael Foods'
reputation.
If given by a Michael Foods employee directly or indirectly using
Michael Foods resources, they are properly reflected on Michael
Foods' books and records.
Under no circumstances should you give or accept money as a business
courtesy or gratuity. Further, under no circumstances should you
accept any business courtesy from a Michael Foods competitor.
These guidelines apply even when no
reimbursement from the company is sought. IF you are uncertain
about the appropriateness of your conduct under the policy, you
should consult your supervisor or call the Vice President of Human
Resources before taking any action.
The foregoing policy does not apply to charitable contributions and
other Michael Foods business transactions that follow Michael Foods'
policies and procedures. Furthermore, the policy is not intended to
alter normal personal relationships simply because the recipient or
giver is a person that has business relationships with Michael Foods.
In such cases, you should be guided by the standards outlined
above.
Business Information.
A. Disclosure of Information to the Public. It is
the policy of Michael Foods to make clear, accurate, complete, timely
and consistent disclosure of material information about the Company.
This is true for all situations where information is conveyed, no
matter how informally. To achieve these goals more fully, the Company
has centralized disclosure by appointing designated spokespersons
that are the only personnel authorized to discuss information about
the Company with persons outside the Company.
Even though the number of employees who are authorized to discuss the
Company's internal affairs with outsiders is extremely limited,
there are several firm-wide policies which all Company employees
should be aware. These policies include:
Michael Foods does not disclose financial or other proprietary
information unless legally required to do so.
Michael Foods does not discuss possible future financial
performance except in very general terms.
Michael Foods does not disclose information about employees other
than biographical information and other key employment data.
Michael Foods does not characterize any person in personal terms.
All contact with the media must go through one of the following
officers:
Gregg A. Ostrander, President and Chief Executive
Officer
Mark D. Witmer, Treasurer
Officers or employees who receive requests for media interviews
must contact the President and Chief Executive Officer who will
determine whether the officer or employee may grant the interview.
B. Protection of Confidential Information. All of
Michael Foods' intellectual property and non-public information
is protected. All employees, because they are information users,
custodians, or stewards, must protect these resources from misuse,
theft, fraud, loss and unauthorized use, disclosure or disposal.
Intellectual property includes confidential data, whether verbal,
printed, written or electronically recorded or transmitted, including
technologies, concepts, formulas, software devices and compilations
of information which give the Company a competitive advantage. Such
items include business, financial and marketing data, marketing and
pricing strategies, technologies and concepts, product formulation
information, engineering and manufacturing know-how and process,
business and product plans, dealer and customer lists, pricing of raw
materials, internal data bases, personnel information, patent
applications, patents and copyrighted materials and trade secrets.
The Company reserves the right to require specific employees to sign
a confidentiality agreement. To the extent possible, confidential
information should be safeguarded and marked confidential.
Confidential information should not be left in places where persons
without authorization may have access to it. Employees carrying
confidential information outside of the Company's facilities
should take necessary steps to protect and secure the information.
Care should be taken in discussing the Company's business with
others. Specifically, employees should not discuss products, prices,
earnings, volumes, new developments or capital requirements that have
not previously been made public by the Company or talk about any
other confidential information or business plans or discuss
confidential information among themselves if they are in the general
presence of others unrelated to the Company.
C. Crisis Communications. It is Michael Foods'
policy to provide accurate and timely information to employees, the
public and the media during a major crisis situation to protect the
health, safety and welfare of employees and the public. The Company
has developed a crisis management program that provides instruction
on the proper procedures which must be followed in the event of a
major crisis. All supervisory employees should be familiar with the
crisis management program.
If you have any questions with regard to crisis management
procedures, please contact a member of the crisis management
team.
Trading in Securities.
A. Trading on Non-Public Information. All Michael
Foods employees must comply with the laws, rules and regulations
relating to the trading of Michael Foods' securities and the
trading of securities of any other business enterprise. Michael
Foods' employees must not use material non-public information
they obtain by reason of their Michael Foods employment or from a
third party source when they engage in securities transactions for
the Company's, their own, a friend's or any third party's
gain or advantage. This includes the purchase or sale of securities
either directly or through intermediaries if you are in the
possession of material non-public information. Obviously, as an
employee of Michael Foods you are in a position to acquire material
information about Michael Foods that is not public. However, you are
also prohibited from trading in any other company's securities
if you are in possession of material, non-public information about
that company. Violation of the insider trading laws may subject
the Company and the individuals to severe civil and criminal
sanctions. Information
is deemed "material" if a reasonable investor would
consider it important in determining whether to buy, sell or hold the
securities in question. Information is non-public until the public
has received it and had a chance to assimilate it. Remember, that the
determination of whether information is "material" will be
made with the benefit of hindsight.
Michael Foods' managers and supervisors should make sure that
employees who report to them and who may have access to material
non-public information understand this policy and that they take
reasonable precautions to assure compliance with this policy. Such
precautions include restricting material non-public information on a
need-to-know basis; providing security in the workplace for files and
working documents containing material non-public information;
establishing written records of those having access to material
non-public information and monitoring securities trading for
indications of insider trading.
B. Definition of "Material, Non-Public
Information". Information is deemed "material"
if a reasonable investor would consider it important in determining
whether to buy, sell or hold the securities in question.
Information is "non-public" until the public has received
it and had a chance to assimilate it. Importantly, the
determination of whether information is "material" will be
made with the benefit of hindsight.
C. Precautionary Measures. Michael Foods'
managers and supervisors should make sure that employees who report
to them and who may have access to material non-public information
understand this policy and that they take reasonable precautions to
assure compliance with this policy. Such precautions include
restricting material non-public information on a need-to-know basis;
providing security in the workplace for files and working documents
containing material non-public information; establishing written
records of those having access to material non-public information and
monitoring securities trading for indications of insider trading.
Competitive
Information Policy.
A. Gathering and Using Competitive Information.
Michael Foods' employees must not violate the legal rights of
competitors and third parties in gathering and using competitive
information. To comply with this policy, you must follow the
following guidelines when gathering competitive information:
Information about a competitor's pricing, price terms,
allocations of markets or customers must not be obtained from the
competitor or from any third party who is not legally entitled to
disclose the information.
Information gathered or used must not be confidential or
proprietary to a third party.
Lawful, ethical methods must be used to obtain competitive
information.
Gathering information about and having conversations with outsiders
about a competitor's intellectual property rights, such as
patents, patent applications, trade secrets and licenses can pose
significant legal and ethical risks and should not be initiated
without obtaining prior approval from senior management.
B. Hiring Competitors' Employees. Before
hiring former or current employees or consultants of Michael Foods'
competitors, you must determine whether the employee is subject to
any agreement that would conflict with or restrict his job
responsibilities at Michael Foods. If you have any concern that the
employee is being hired because of unique information obtained as a
result of his employment with a competitor, or if the employee is
subject to the restrictions described above, no offer of employment
should be made until you have reviewed the matter with Company legal
counsel and senior management and obtained their approval.
Antitrust
Compliance. A.
Antitrust Laws. It is Michael Foods' policy to
strictly comply with antitrust laws and the competition and
anti-monopoly laws of all countries, states and governmental bodies
in which Michael Foods conducts business. Supervisors and managers
are responsible for insuring that employees under their supervision
are aware of and comply with this policy. There is no exception to
this policy nor shall it be compromised or qualified by any
employee. If you engage
in any conduct or practice that may involve the antitrust laws, you
should be guided by this policy and you should seek advice of Company
legal counsel.
B.
Dealing with Competitors. Collusion or any understanding,
plan, arrangement or agreement with the Company's competitors
involving any of the following subjects in all probability is a
violation of the federal antitrust laws and is absolutely prohibited
by this policy. You may not have any expressed plan, arrangement or
agreement, express or implied, with any representative of a
competitor concerning the following matters:
Prices.
Pricing methods and policies.
Price changes.
Bids or bidding on a particular contract.
Discounts.
Promotions.
Rebates.
Terms or conditions of sale.
Costs.
Profits.
Deliveries.
Distribution or transportation.
Any other matter relating to or affecting prices or any element of
price.
Because innocent discussions with regard to any of the above topics
are dangerous, communications with representatives of a competitor
with regard to any of the foregoing matters are strictly prohibited.
In all instances,
Michael Foods will independently and unilaterally determine the
prices and terms for the sale of Michael Foods' products in
light of its costs and market conditions. When you consider
competitive prices in determining Michael Foods Prices, you must
obtain competitive prices only from sources other than competitors,
such as published price lists, previously circulated to the trade or
Michael Foods' customers. In all instances, you should document
the source of all competitive price information that you
obtain. Except in the
context of bona fide vendor/vendee relationships, you may not give to
or receive from a competitor information on any of the subjects
outlined above. You may
not have any discussion, communication, understanding, plan,
arrangement or agreement with any representative of a competitor
relating to the allocation of customers among competitors, the
division of markets, territories or products, the restriction or
allocation of exports or imports or the control or limit of
production, quality or research.
You may not have any discussion, communication, understanding, plan,
arrangement or agreement with any representative of a competitor to
limit business or to refrain from doing business with a particular
company. Michael Foods will choose its own customers and
suppliers. It is not
illegal or inappropriate for Michael Foods' employees and
representatives of competitors to meet and talk from time to time.
These discussions normally take place at trade association meetings
and similar industry functions. However, since trade associations are
a common ground for competitors to meet and discuss common interests,
their activities are closely scrutinized by legal authorities.
Michael Foods encourages its employees to participate in trade
associations, but in such context you should not attend or remain
present at any concealed or secret meeting of competitors or any
meeting of competitor member of a trade association or similar
organization. If you attend a trade association meeting and become
aware that competitors are discussing improper subjects, you should
leave the meeting immediately and advise your superior and Company
legal counsel.
C.
Relations with Customers. Any understanding, plan, arrangement
or agreement with customers regarding resale prices in all
probability will violate the antitrust laws. Michael Foods prohibits
any agreement or coercion of customers regarding the prices at which
Michael Foods' customers resell Michael Foods' products.
Michael Foods' customers must remain free to establish their
own resale price of Michael Foods' products. From time to time,
Michael Foods may recommend resale prices, but no Michael Foods
employee is authorized to force adherence to suggested resale
prices. Michael Foods'
policy is to set prices for its products fairly and competitively. It
is Michael Foods' policy to comply with all laws relating to
unfair price discrimination. Generally, unlawful price discrimination
must substantially lessen competition, create a monopoly or destroy,
injure or prevent competition. Not all types of price discrimination
are unfair and against Company policy. Pricing differentials based on
manufacturing costs, transportation, sales volume or to meet
competition generally are permissible.
The laws relating to unfair price discrimination and other aspects of
the antitrust laws are extremely complex. If you have any concern
that a pricing policy or practice may violate the anti-trust laws,
you should contact Company legal counsel or the compliance policy
hotline.
Environmental
Laws, Occupational Health and Safety, and Product Safety.
A.
Environmental Compliance. It is the policy of Michael Foods to
comply with all applicable federal, state and local environmental
laws and regulations and to conduct business in a manner which
protects the environment and Company employees from environmental
harm. It is also the policy of Michael Foods to establish and
maintain appropriate plans, procedures and programs to comply with
all applicable environmental laws and regulations.
Every Michael Foods facility and business unit should have a system
in place that assures compliance with environmental laws and
regulations. Each Michael Foods facility will prepare, maintain and
file with appropriate regulatory authorities accurate and complete
environmental permit applications, reports, plans, records,
manifests, certifications and other environmental documents as may be
required by law. Each business unit will develop processes for
solving its own environmental pollution and conservation programs to
prevent pollution at the source wherever and whenever possible.
If a release of
hazardous substance or petroleum products occurs, employees should
attempt to contain and recover the materials. Employees also should
report the release or spill of any hazardous substances or petroleum
products to their supervisor and the Company. If required, the
Company will notify federal and local regulatory authorities of
releases and spills. If an emergency exists, Michael Foods'
employees should immediately contact the local fire department and
otherwise follow the emergency rules for the Michael Foods business
unit. Michael Foods'
employees should immediately inform their supervisor of all
government inspections, written complaints and inquiries (whether
formal or informal) and should not respond to those inspections,
complaints and inquiries until advice has been obtained from the
appropriate management supervisor. In all events, employees must
cooperate with government investigators and/or regulators.
B. Occupational Health and Safety. Michael Foods
is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace for its
employees. These commitments can only be met through awareness and
cooperation of all Michael Foods' employees. Employees have a
responsibility to abide by safe operating procedures, to guard our
own and our fellow employees' health.
It is the Company's policy to comply with both the letter and
spirit of federal, state and local occupational health and safety
laws and regulations and to attempt to develop a cooperative attitude
with inspection and enforcement personnel from agencies enforcing
those laws and regulations. In keeping this spirit, employees are
encouraged to immediately report to their supervisors conditions
which they perceive to be unsafe or unhealthy. Michael Foods is
committed to further the safety and health of its employees through
regular work site analysis and inspection. Employees are expected to
fully cooperate with all safety inspections and analysis. Employees
are also expected to engage in their own work site analysis on a day
to day basis. If employees become aware of a work site hazard, or a
potential work site hazard, they must immediately contact their
supervisor. Once a
workplace safety or health hazard or potential hazard has been
identified, steps must be taken to immediately eliminate or remedy
the hazard. Employees
shall regularly receive safety and health training appropriate for
their workplace.
Accidents and near-miss incidents must be promptly reported and
investigated. Under certain circumstances, accidents and safety
concerns must also be reported to regulatory authorities.
C. Product Safety and Recall. As a processor and
distributor of food products, Michael Foods must comply with all
requirements of the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act as well as the
applicable regulations issued by the Food and Drug Administration
("FDA") and state and local agencies that regulate the
quality and distribution of food products. All products will comply
with federal and state product labeling laws and will be properly
date of use coded. All data, representations, certifications and
other information that are required to be maintained are to be made
contemporaneously, completely and accurately by the individual who
performed the work or is responsible for the document. Each employee
who is responsible for submitting materials to the FDA or other
regulatory agencies must insure that all proposed submissions are
correct and complete in all respects. This policy strictly prohibits
the submission of false statements and representations; submission of
altered data, submission of misleading data or omission of required
data. The Company has
developed an emergency policy and procedures for product recall. All
supervisory employees who are involved in product recall situations
should be familiar with the product recall policies and procedures.
Transacting
International Business.
As Michael Foods has grown, its international business activities
have expanded and will continue to expand. Michael Foods'
business conduct policies apply equally to international business
transactions and Michael Foods is committed to comply with all local
requirements of each country in which it conducts business, including
United States laws that may apply in other countries. Examples of
requirements that apply worldwide are as follows:
A. Payment for Goods and Services. Michael Foods'
payment for goods and services provided to Michael Foods outside the
United States must be paid by Michael Foods' check, draft or
other approved documentary transfer payable to the person or company
legally entitled to receive payment. Written contracts must be used
to purchase goods and services except where purchases are routine in
nature and arise out of the Company's ordinary course of
business. No payment must be made to a party in a country other than
that in which the party resides, maintains a place of business or has
delivered goods or services for which payment is made, except where
it is clear that payment made in that country will not violate local
laws such as income, tax or currency control laws.
Michael Foods' employees working outside the United States must
comply with all applicable tax and currency control laws in the
countries of their principal employment.
B. Payment to Foreign Officials. The Foreign
Corrupt Practices Act prohibits Michael Foods' from making
payments to foreign government officials for the purpose of obtaining
favorable government action or keeping government business regardless
of whether such payments would be acceptable in the foreign country.
This law specifically prohibits Michael Foods from directly or
indirectly offering, promising to pay, or authorizing the payment of
money or anything of value to foreign government officials for the
purpose of influencing the acts or decisions of foreign officials,
inducing foreign officials to act or fail to act in violation of
their lawful duties, or inducing foreign officials to use their
influence to assist in obtaining or retaining business for or
directing business to any person.
Simply put, no payment which could be viewed by a third party as a
bribe to a foreign official, regardless of how minor, may be made by
any Michael Foods employee to a foreign government official without
the express approval of senior management and Company
counsel.
C.
Customs Laws. It is Michael Foods' policy to comply with
all customs laws and regulations in each country into which Michael
Foods imports goods. Such customs laws and regulations require
appropriate customs documentation, country of origin marking and
proper classification and value declarations.
D. Financial Books and Records. The Foreign
Corrupt Practices Act applies to Michael Foods' business
transactions both inside the U.S. and in other countries. It requires
Michael Foods to maintain accurate and complete financial books and
records. No Company funds or assets can be used for any unlawful,
improper or unethical purpose; no undisclosed, unrecorded or secret
funds or assets can be established and no false or artificial entries
can be made in Michael Foods' financial books and records for
any purposes.
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