Human Rights and Working Conditions Policy

1. Introduction

Podium Engineering S.r.l. is committed to respecting and protecting human rights in all aspects of our business operations. We believe that the dignity, fairness, and respect of every individual are fundamental rights that must be upheld at all times. Our commitment to human rights is based on compliance with Italian law, as well as relevant international guidelines, including the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Labour Organization (ILO) standards.

This Human Rights and Working Conditions Policy is a formal document approved by our senior management and applies to all employees, contractors, suppliers, and business partners. We are dedicated to ensuring that our workplace reflects these values and that our operations do not contribute to human rights abuses in any form.

2. Human Rights Overview

Human rights are the inherent rights we are entitled to simply by being human. They represent the universally agreed minimum conditions that ensure all individuals maintain their dignity, regardless of nationality, residence, sex, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, or any other status. At Podium Engineering S.r.l., we are committed to upholding these rights and ensuring that they are respected in every aspect of our operations, both within the company and in our external relationships.

3. Child Labour and Young Workers

We are committed to the prohibition of child labor and ensuring that young workers are employed in accordance with applicable laws and international standards. Specifically:

  • Prohibition of Child Labor: We will not employ individuals under the legal minimum working age.
  • Young Workers (under 18 years of age): We recognize the special protections required for young workers. They must not be required to work at night or overtime, and must be protected from any work conditions that could be harmful to their health, safety, or development, in line with the provisions of Italian applicable laws and the ILO Minimum Age Convention No. 138.
  • Education: The duty of young workers should not interfere with their school attendance or educational commitments.

Our suppliers and partners are also expected to adhere to these standards.

4. Wages and Benefits

We believe in fair remuneration for all employees. Our policy is to provide wages and benefits that comply with applicable regulations and industry standards, ensuring that employees can achieve a decent standard of living for themselves and their families. This includes:

  • Providing remuneration in accordance with the minimum wage laws and industry practices.
  • Ensuring that workers receive fair compensation for overtime, medical leave, and other government-mandated benefits.
  • Offering additional benefits that help to improve the overall quality of life for workers.

We will not tolerate wage theft or any form of non-compliance with these standards.

5. Working Hours

We respect the right of our employees to a healthy work-life balance and comply with laws regarding working hours. Specifically:

  • Maximum Workweek: Employees should not work more than 48 hours per week, including overtime.
  • Time Off: Employees should have at least one full day off per week.
  • Compliance with Laws: We will respect all local laws and regulations regarding maximum working hours, breaks, and time off.

Any violations of these working hour regulations will be addressed promptly.

6. Modern Slavery

Podium Engineering S.r.l. is committed to preventing modern slavery in any form, including forced labor, human trafficking, and other exploitative practices. Modern slavery includes:

  • Forced Overtime: We will not require employees to work under threat or coercion.
  • Retention of Identity Documents: We do not tolerate the retention of workers' passports, identity documents, or any other form of coercion.
  • Human Trafficking: We will ensure that none of our operations or suppliers are involved in trafficking.

We adhere to international human rights standards and take proactive measures to prevent modern slavery in our workplace and supply chains.

7. Ethical Recruiting

We commit to ethical recruitment practices that align with international labor standards. Specifically:

  • We will not engage in unethical recruitment practices such as defrauding or misleading potential workers about the nature of the work, requesting recruitment fees, or confiscating passports or identity documents.
  • All workers will receive clear, written notification of their rights and responsibilities in a language they understand, before recruitment begins.

We expect our suppliers and partners to adopt the same standards in their recruitment practices.

8. Harassment

Podium Engineering S.r.l. is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment, abuse, or any form of inhumane treatment. Harassment includes:

  • Sexual Harassment: We will not tolerate any form of sexual harassment, including unwanted sexual advances or comments.
  • Physical and Mental Abuse: Verbal abuse, corporal punishment, or any form of mental or physical coercion is strictly prohibited.

Employees have the right to work in an environment free from harassment, and we encourage them to report any instances of misconduct.

9. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace is essential to our success. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) mean that:

  • We will develop and promote an inclusive culture where diversity is valued and celebrated.
  • We will encourage diversity in all levels of our workforce, leadership, and boards of directors, ensuring that everyone can contribute fully and reach their full potential.

We actively work to eliminate biases and ensure equal opportunity for all employees, regardless of their background or identity.

10. Non-Discrimination

We are committed to treating all individuals equally and fairly, regardless of their sex, race, color, ethnicity, religion, political views, disability, age, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. Specifically:

  • We will ensure equal pay for equal work, and pay differences will only be based on factors such as local living costs or job responsibilities.
  • We will take proactive steps to prevent discrimination in hiring, promotion, and compensation practices.

We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone is treated with fairness and respect.

Conclusion

Podium Engineering S.r.l. is committed to ensuring that human rights and fair working conditions are respected and protected in all aspects of our operations. This policy reflects our dedication to creating a positive, safe, and inclusive workplace where employees are treated with dignity and respect. We expect all employees, contractors, and suppliers to adhere to these principles and actively contribute to our commitment to human rights.

We will regularly review this policy to ensure its effectiveness and to meet evolving legal and ethical standards. Any violation of this policy will be taken seriously, and appropriate actions will be taken to address and remedy any issues.