Responsible Procurement

At TESS, we are committed to conducting business in a way that respects people, society, and the environment. To support this commitment, we have developed a Supplier Code of Conduct to complement our internal sustainability policy. Achieving sustainable business practices requires strong collaboration with our suppliers and business partners. Responsible supply chain partnerships are essential to ensuring ethical operations and to reaching the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Requirements for Our Operations

Our internal sustainability policy sets the foundation for our broader sustainability efforts, including those within our supply chain. Suppliers and partners can expect us to act responsibly and to ensure that our business and procurement practices enable – rather than hinder – their ability to meet our standards on human rights, social responsibility, and environmental protection. While we always aim for dialogue and collaboration, we reserve the right to terminate relationships where suppliers or partners are unwilling or unable to meet our expectations.

 

Requirements for the Supply Chain

We expect our suppliers and partners to work systematically and purposefully to comply with our supplier guidelines, which encompass principles of sustainable business practices. These include fundamental requirements for human rights, labor rights, anti-corruption, animal welfare, and the environment.

Our suppliers must:

  • Follow the supplier guidelines, including principles of sustainable business practices.
  • Actively conduct due diligence assessments, identifying and mitigating risks of negative impacts on people, communities, and the environment. They must monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these measures and communicate the results to those affected. Suppliers responsible for negative impacts must also restore the affected conditions.
  • Demonstrate willingness and ability to continuously improve conditions for people, communities, and the environment through collaboration.
  • Document, upon TESS's request, how they and any subcontractors comply with the guidelines.
  • If a supplier repeatedly fails to comply with the guidelines, contract termination may occur.
  • Have a system for handling complaints related to human rights, labor rights, the environment, and corruption.
  • Avoid business partners operating in countries under UN and/or Norwegian trade embargoes.

 

If a supplier fails to demonstrate willingness or ability to comply with our requirements after repeated follow-ups, contract termination may be considered.

Supplier Guidelines (Supplier Code of Conduct)