For producers that will be monitored, internal management systems are particularly encouraged as an effective way to embed the amfori BSCI Code of Conduct in their business practices. Terminating a business relationship or an individual contract with a business partner because of a struggle to implement the amfori BSCI Code of Conduct is considered a last resort. However, it may be necessary to terminate a business relationship or individual contract if the business partner fails to act in a manner consistent with the principles set out in the amfori BSCI Code of Conduct, and/or when the business partner is unwilling to undertake the measures needed to fulfill any of the obligations set out in and/or inherent to the amfori BSCI Code of Conduct. Workers Involvement and Protection Business enterprises should establish good management practices that involve workers and their representatives in sound information exchange on workplace issues, and allow for appropriate measures for protecting workers in line with the aspirations of the amfori BSCI Code of Conduct. Business enterprises should take specific steps to make workers aware of their rights and responsibilities. In addition, business enterprises are required to build sufficient competence among employers, managers, workers and workers representatives in order to embed these practices in the business operation successfully. Continuous education and training at each level of work is essential, particularly with regard to Occupational Health and Safety. Business enterprises should establish or participate in effective operational-level grievance mechanisms for individuals and communities who may be adversely impacted. Even where judicial systems are effective and well-resourced, grievance mechanisms may offer particular advantages such as speed of access and remediation, reduced costs and transnational reach. V. Principles amfori BSCI Participants expect all their business partners to observe the amfori BSCI Code of Conduct. Furthermore, any business partners that are monitored against the principles below are to show evidence that they take (a) all necessary measures to ensure their own observance of the amfori BSCI Code of Conduct and (b) reasonable measures to ensure that all of their business partners involved in the production process(es) observe the amfori BSCI Code of Conduct. The rights of Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining Business partners shall: (a) respect the right of workers to form unions in a free and democratic way; (b) not discriminate against workers because of trade union membership and (c) respect workers’ right to bargain collectively. Business partners shall not prevent workers’ representatives from having access to workers in the workplace or from interacting with them. © Copyright amfori 2017 amfori BSCI Code of Conduct - Public Document V. 1/2017
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