Employee Code of Conduct Policy

What is an Employee Code of Conduct Policy?

An Employee Code of Conduct Policy is a set of rules, principles, values, and behaviours the employees are expected to follow while working for an organization. It defines the desired behaviour.

An Employee Code of Conduct Policy clarifies the organization's vision, values, and principles to both the internal and external stakeholders. This policy can be used as a benchmark to evaluate the performance and conduct of the employees.

What is the difference between an Employee Code of Conduct Policy and an Employee Handbook?

An Employee Handbook covers a broader range of information, including organization policies, benefits, and procedures. In contrast, an Employee Code of Conduct Policy focuses specifically on ethical standards and behavioural expectations from the employee.

What is the difference between an Employee Code of Conduct Policy and an Employment Agreement?

A Code of Conduct applies to all the employees of the organization despite their positions or roles in the organization. On the other hand, an Employment Agreement is a personalized agreement entered into between an organization and an employee.

Is it mandatory to have a Code of Conduct?

No, it is not mandatory. However, it will help to have a clear understanding of behavioural expectations and promote a professional and positive work environment.

What can be the duration of a Code of Conduct?

The Code of Conduct remains in effect as long as the organization operates. It should be reviewed and updated to ensure compliance with updates in laws and industrial standards.

What has to be done once a Code of Conduct is ready?

Once the Code of Conduct is filled out and printed, it can be circulated to the employees either as soft copies or physical copies; in either case, it is better to get the acknowledgement receipt from the employees.

It is always better to make this Code of Conduct available to all employees and other stakeholders of the company.

What are the other documents used along with an Employee Code of Conduct Policy?

The Code of Conduct can be used by any type of organization despite their size or type of business and can be used as a supplementary document to the Employment Agreement, POSH Policy, Non-Compete Agreement, Remote Work Policy, Employee Privacy Policy and Employee Handbook.

What happens if an employee violates the Employee Code of Conduct Policy?

In case any employee violates the Code of Conduct, the organization can set a progressive disciplinary action including verbal warning, warning letter, suspension, and dismissal from employment.

What must a Code of Conduct contain?

A Code of Conduct must contain the following clauses:

• Introduction: Purpose and scope of this policy.
• General Conduct: Expectations for professional behaviour and integrity.
• Conflict of Interest: Guidelines on avoiding conflict of interest.
• Use of Company Property: Appropriate use of company assets and resources.
• Anti-Harrassment: Prohibition of harassment, bullying and discrimination.
• Dress Code: Expectations for professional attire while on duty.
• Attendance and Punctuality: Guidelines on work hours, attendance and leave policies.
• Health and Safety: Precautions to be taken by the employees while on duty.

Which laws are applicable to a Code of Conduct?

The employment laws are covered under the respective Shops and Establishment Acts of the states concerned. In general, rules under the Indian Contract Act, 1872 will be applicable.

How to modify the template?

You fill out a form. The document is created before your eyes as you respond to the questions.

At the end, you receive it in Word and PDF formats. You can modify it and reuse it.