CODE OF ETHICS
1. CEO’S MESSAGE

At FAL CALZADOS DE SEGURIDAD, S.A. (hereinafter FAL SEGURIDAD), we have maintained our commitment from the beginning to being a family-run business, close-knit and knowledgeable about our products and the global market, and, most importantly, placing the utmost value on the people who work here.

Every day, we take responsibility for performing our duties based on our values ​​and principles. Transparency and hard work are the key virtues that highlight our strength, position us in the market, and guarantee our good work and reputation.

The Code of Ethics we present here establishes the fundamental commitments and policies for both internal and external relations, constituting the framework for ethical conduct.

All of us at FAL SEGURIDAD are part of a single team and constitute the company’s greatest asset, achieving the increasingly ambitious and demanding goals and challenges presented by the global market.

We are a company committed to our employees, fostering their professional development and providing opportunities for internal advancement within a stable work environment.

We strive to generate a positive impact on local development through job creation, collaboration with government agencies, and the development of sustainable and environmentally responsible products.

As a demonstration of our ethical commitment and support for international principles, we are a signatory to the UN Global Compact and promote compliance with these principles throughout our supply chain.

The organization is available to employees, client companies, suppliers, and all other stakeholders involved in our business who may have any questions regarding the Code of Ethics or any ethical or professional disputes.

D. CARLOS ABAD URQUIJO

 
2. WHO WE ARE

We are a leading company in the manufacture and marketing of professional footwear, both in Spain and internationally. With a production capacity exceeding 800,000 pairs, the shoes and boots manufactured by the company enjoy a high level of prestige.

The company was founded in 1965 as part of Calzados FAL S.A., the manufacturer of the well-known CHIRUCA boots, and until 1998 combined the production of boots for outdoor activities with professional footwear.

In 1998, the Safety line was spun off with the creation of the new company FAL Calzados de Seguridad, S.A., a result of the high level of specialization achieved in this market segment.

3. MISSION, VISION AND VALUES

Our policy is based on offering quality products under the motto of “guaranteed safety” as well as a continuous desire to improve the design and performance of the models, to offer the latest advances and technologies in footwear for professional use in all sectors, especially in those that present the greatest risk to people such as: emergency services (police and fire departments), construction, steel industry, public works, automotive, etc.

MISSION

We strive to make our products feel like an extension of ourselves to our users.

Our core values ​​are safety, innovation, comfort, and sustainability.

VISION
To continue creating the best technological solutions for safety, understanding safety as a constant investment in R&D linked to comfort and design, with the aim of being a benchmark in the safety footwear sector both in services and products as well as for the development of a team of professionals, maintaining a work environment that allows achieving goals and sustainability.

VALUES
Our strategy is built on solid principles based on personal and professional ethics, as well as sound business practices.
The achievement of business objectives will be guided by the parameters of quality, innovation, people, and objectivity.
The following values ​​form the basis of our brand philosophy:

  • Meeting the needs and expectations of our stakeholders by improving our products, processes, and services to sustainably generate innovative, high-quality products.
  • Professional and personal development: Fostering teamwork, promoting equality, and enhancing training as a means to achieve professional and personal growth.
  • Transparency in our relationships, resulting in mutually beneficial, profitable, and sustainable business relationships for all parties.
  • Innovation, safety, and sustainability: Improving our manufacturing processes and products to achieve the lowest possible environmental impact.
  • Respect for people and their rights: Always promoting working conditions that guarantee occupational health and safety, as well as human and professional development.
  • Integrity: Conducting all relationships and activities with honesty, avoiding all forms of corruption.
  • Socially responsible actions: Based on respect for people, cultural diversity, and the customs and principles of all stakeholders.
 
4. OUR PRINCIPLES

The principles set out in this document form the basis of our activity.

  • Professional development with equal opportunities, without practicing any type of discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, family situation, age, disability, race, culture, nationality, opinions, or religion, among other factors.
  • Confidentiality and respect for individuals, ensuring confidentiality, honesty, and transparency in professional relationships.
  • Work-life balance, taking measures to promote a healthy work-life balance.
  • Respect for labor rights, fostering communication, participation, consultation, and collective bargaining in all areas recognized by law.
  • Safe work practices, carrying out tasks in accordance with safety, hygiene, and ergonomic standards, and respecting the safety of all employees.
  • Minimizing negative impacts by manufacturing environmentally sustainable, high-quality products.
  • Legality and impartiality, maintaining ethical conduct and respecting established regulations and instructions related to the environment, workplace safety, and commercial transactions. Integrity, promotion, and enhancement of human value with the purpose of improving skills and personal development, respecting and guaranteeing physical and moral integrity, not tolerating episodes of intimidation or workplace harassment, nor threats that degrade a person, nor those aimed at violating the law or the Code of Ethics, respecting honor and personal privacy.
  • Zero tolerance for abuse, harassment, and inhumane treatment; no type of abuse is tolerated, understood as anything that produces a negative impact on a person, whatever its nature.
  • Forced labor and child labor are not permitted in our activities or in any other related to our value chain.

These principles will be further strengthened by the company’s commitment to the UN Global Compact, through which we will participate in a global project to align our business strategy with the UN mandate to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the business sector. However, even before the formal process of joining the Compact is complete, compliance with these objectives is considered mandatory under the rules of this code and is therefore listed below as an integral part of it.

This agreement includes compliance with 10 principles integrated into four different sections.

Human Rights
1. Businesses must support and respect the protection of internationally recognized fundamental human rights within their sphere of influence.
2. Companies must ensure that their businesses are not complicit in human rights abuses.

Labor Relations
3. Support the principles of freedom of association and unionization and the right to collective bargaining.
4. Eliminate forced and compulsory labor.
5. Abolish all forms of child labor.
6. Eliminate discrimination in employment and occupation.

Environment
7. Supporting a preventative approach to environmental challenges.
8. Promote greater environmental responsibility.
9. Encourage the development and dissemination of environmentally friendly technologies.

Fight against corruption
10. Companies must work against corruption in all its forms, including extortion and crime.

 
5. STANDARDS OF ETHICAL CONDUCT

This Code of Ethics is mandatory for all individuals within FAL SEGURIDAD, regardless of their relationship with the organization, their role or position, or whether they hold corporate representation. It also extends to all natural or legal persons related to the organization, such as suppliers and collaborators, intermediary individuals and companies, agents, representatives, client companies, etc. Compliance with ethical standards is an essential requirement in all our relationships with any of these parties. Only in this way can the integrity and reputation of the organization be preserved.

The Code of Ethics will be made available to all stakeholders who have any relationship with FAL SEGURIDAD, who must explicitly commit to its compliance and adhere to it.

Failure to comply with the rules contained in this document will result in the application of the disciplinary procedures for employees (included in the internal code of conduct), which may include termination of the employment contract or the termination of any commercial relationship with other entities.

This code will be applicable from the moment of its approval and entry into force. Therefore, FAL SEGURIDAD will facilitate access to the document and will be available to address any questions or concerns that may arise.

The commitments and standards to be met by each stakeholder group are described below.

 
6. OWNERSHIP AND SHAREHOLDING

It is the duty of the directors and the governing body to work proactively in the fight against criminal offenses, regulatory compliance and condemnation of all those acts that disregard the integrity, honor and privacy of individuals.

Organizational management:

The Board of Directors of the Company is committed to sustainable development and creating value for its shareholders and for the community in which it operates and with which it interacts in the course of its business.

This commitment is reflected in the professional actions of the Company and all its members, in accordance with the principles contained in FAL SEGURIDAD’s Mission and Values, as detailed in this document.

Good governance, shareholder relations and public administrations: FAL SEGURIDAD bases good governance and administration on the following aspects:

  • Data integrity, transmitting accurate information and complying with regulations, cooperating with internal and external auditors.
  • Compliance with accounting and financial reporting, respecting established standards and internal rules.
  • Regulatory compliance, always acting in accordance with established regulations.

Transparency of information:

Transparency is a growing value in our organization. Clarity in communication and actions allows us to identify shortcomings and implement safeguards; it enables us to detect corrupt practices and take appropriate action; it allows us to understand the same reality and join forces to achieve our objectives more accurately.

In our organization, we emphasize transparency as the sole starting point for direct and clear communication, regardless of position or responsibilities. Transparency applies equally to everyone to maximize internal performance and gain a competitive edge in the market.

The Company’s financial information, and especially its annual accounts, will accurately reflect the Company’s economic, financial, and asset position in accordance with applicable generally accepted accounting principles and current regulations.

No director or professional outside the Company will conceal or distort the Company’s accounting information, which will always be truthful and accurate.

A lack of honesty in the preparation and communication of financial information, both internally and externally, violates this code of ethics.

Voting and Representation Rights: The Company will make available to its shareholders the appropriate and useful information they may require about the company, providing it either directly or through its Board Secretary, and will ensure the principle of equal treatment for all its shareholders.

Shareholders may exercise their voting rights by attending the General Shareholders’ Meetings or by delegating their vote to any other shareholder attending the meeting.

7. WORKING PEOPLE

FAL SEGURIDAD is committed to its employees in the following terms:

Equality:

FAL SEGURIDAD guarantees non-discriminatory and equal treatment, regardless of age, sex, race, or any other personal or social condition, and will promote measures to facilitate work-life balance.

We strive to attract, develop, and retain the full potential of our team, without regard to any other criteria, ensuring an inclusive work environment that values ​​the strengths of each individual. Valuing our colleagues and respecting their ideas fosters innovation and a positive work atmosphere.

Work-life balance is our priority for the well-being of our team. We value personal life projects, and their development is essential for all our employees. Family and/or personal harmony is fundamental for optimal work performance. We believe this and we put it into practice.

Right to privacy:
Personal data will not be disclosed to third parties except with the consent of the data subjects or in cases of legal or judicial obligation. Those processing such data must maintain confidentiality and ensure its safekeeping.

Forced labor and child labor:
FAL SEGURIDAD, by adhering to the Global Compact, expresses its rejection of child labor and forced labor, and its respect for freedom of association and collective bargaining.

Safety and health:
The safety of people comes first, therefore FAL SEGURIDAD will periodically plan the necessary measures to guarantee Safety and Health at work, adopting, at a minimum, the measures established in the legislation in force at any given time.

Infrastructure accessibility:
Whenever renovations are carried out on the facilities, FAL SEGURIDAD will take into account accessibility for all people when renewing, replacing or expanding them.

Respect for partnership and negotiation:
FAL SEGURIDAD guarantees strict compliance with the rights of collective bargaining, consultation and participation.

Working conditions:

Promoting decent working conditions that allow for the professional and personal development of individuals.

We strongly reject any form of harassment, abuse of power, or any other conduct that may create an intimidating, offensive, or hostile work environment.

Training, employability and career development:

FAL SEGURIDAD provides its employees with the resources, techniques, methods, and tools necessary to acquire the skills required to perform their duties.

Professional advancement is based on the application of criteria of objectivity, transparency, and maximum performance, and is always carried out with equal opportunities.

Respect for the dignity of persons:
Respect for human dignity and rights is the foundation of ethical behavior. FAL SEGURIDAD denounces and prosecutes workplace harassment, sexual harassment, harassment based on sex, and harassment against LGBTQ+ individuals, and urges its employees to report any situation that may constitute such harassment.

 
8. CLIENT COMPANIES, USERS

FAL SEGURIDAD bases its relationship with client companies and their users on the responsibility and commitment that legal compliance provides. All communications and transactions will be governed by ethical principles and truthfulness.

Contracts with clients:

Contracts will be executed with due regard for truthfulness, transparency, and honesty in transactions.

The relationships will be duly documented, expressed in clear terms that allow for the identification of the rights and obligations of each party.

All actions must be guided by transparency, information, and protection, as well as with full awareness of the rights that the law grants to both parties in all aspects and matters.

Contracts must be:

  • Clear and simple, written in accessible language, understood by all parties involved.
  • Compliant with current regulations, without resorting to evasive or improper practices.
  • Comprehensive, ensuring that no element relevant to decision-making is overlooked.
  • Any contract modifications or changes to the economic or technical conditions will be communicated.

Professionalism:

Success in customer relations lies in the proper preparation of the products offered, direct and indirect service, and the speed with which problems are resolved through clear communication. For this reason, the organization has all the necessary material and human resources for professional development that meets market needs.

Availability, respect, and courtesy must be present in every communication and interaction that arises throughout the business relationship.

Confidentiality and privacy:
We guarantee that the information we process is duly protected by current legislation on the protection of personal data.

Honesty:
FAL SEGURIDAD is committed in all its relationships with clients to the exclusion of practices of corruption, extortion and bribery.

Customer service:

FAL SEGURIDAD has established various communication channels with our client companies to receive suggestions, observations, complaints, and other feedback.

Much of our growth is based on the solutions we provide to address issues in our client relationships. Taking into account the suggestions and complaints made by clients and the associations that support them allows us to grow both as an organization and as individuals, and these feedback will be used to improve our team.

Products and services:
Our Quality system ensures the quality of the products and services supplied.

 
9. SUPPLIERS, SUBCONTRACTORS AND ALLIES

Business relationships established with supplier, partner, or collaborating companies must be based on trust and the guarantee of professional and ethical behavior.

Policy to promote the principles of CSR:

FAL SEGURIDAD is committed to disseminating and promoting its established CSR principles to all stakeholders and external parties.

All FAL SEGURIDAD employees must comply with and respect internal regulations when procuring suppliers, awarding contracts, and procuring supplies and services.

Confidentiality:
FAL SEGURIDAD has established confidentiality agreements with its most significant suppliers of materials and services and with its subcontractors.

Honesty:
In relations with suppliers, subcontractors and other allied companies.

 
10. GOVERNMENTS, PUBLIC ADMINISTRATIONS AND REGULATORY BODIES

FAL SEGURIDAD maintains a transparent, honest, and collaborative relationship with various public administrations and regulatory bodies, adhering to the principles of legality and the defense of the public interest.

In its dealings with public administrations, all personnel will conduct themselves in accordance with the team’s principles and values, refraining from offering or accepting any gift or favor that could influence an independent decision or violate the rules of ethical and transparent competition.

All accounting, economic, and/or financial operations at FAL SEGURIDAD are carried out with clarity and accuracy, maintaining precise records and guaranteeing the veracity of the accounts.

Any practice that involves the manipulation of operations or accounts, economic, accounting, and/or financial information, or any alteration of the team’s financial position, is completely rejected by FAL SEGURIDAD.

 
11. COMMUNITY, SOCIETY AND SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS

Commitment to sustainable development.
FAL SEGURIDAD is an organization committed to sustainable development and seeks to achieve a balance between the development of its activity, the protection of the environment and the generation of wealth in society.

Promotion of local development:To this end, close relationships are maintained with local organizations through:

  • Preference is given to hiring workers from the local area.
  • The purchase of locally sourced materials and services is encouraged.
  • Collaboration agreement with Research Centers.
  • Collaboration with local educational institutions, facilitating student internships through Dual Vocational Training.

Investment in society:

FAL SEGURIDAD contributes to local development through its business activities by establishing collaborative agreements with various educational institutions in the area, promoting job placement and training.

FAL SEGURIDAD promotes innovation as a fundamental pillar in the development of its business, for which it establishes collaborative agreements with various research and technology centers.

 
12. ENVIRONMENT

We are committed to conducting our activities in an environmentally responsible manner, complying with all applicable regulations, standards, and voluntary commitments. We strive to minimize the environmental impact of our professional activities while continuously working to improve our efficiency as a company.

We actively participate in raising awareness about our surroundings and working to improve them, acting responsibly towards the environment. We measure all actions that could have a negative impact on the environment and, in doing so, generate value for the community.

FAL SEGURIDAD recognizes the importance of aligning its business operations with a commitment to environmental protection and pollution prevention, minimizing the impact of our activities on the environment. Proof of this commitment is our current certification of conformity for calculated CO2 emissions.

To this end, FAL SEGURIDAD is committed to:

  • To comply with and/or improve upon applicable environmental regulations.

  • To optimize resources to achieve continuous improvement in environmental performance.

  • To establish, implement, and review annually the environmental objectives and impacts associated with our activities.

 
13. COMPETENCE

FAL SEGURIDAD is committed to not engaging in smear campaigns against its competitors and to obtaining market information in a fair and honest manner.

We will respect the intellectual and industrial property rights of third parties at all times.

 

14. CONTROL OF CODE APPLICATION AND COMPETENCIES

This code of ethics applies to all employees of FAL SEGURIDAD and all its collaborators.

These principles and guidelines must be applied in all actions undertaken.

If any conduct contrary to the principles and guidelines outlined in this document is detected, it must be reported through the established reporting or complaint channels by sending a written report to the following email address: rsc@falseguridad.es.

 
15. COMPLAINTS CHANNEL

In order to prevent situations that could damage FAL SEGURIDAD’s image, a series of rules and guidelines have been established to ensure compliance with the Code of Ethics and to facilitate the reporting of any violations or potential violations, with the aim of stopping such conduct.

If you have evidence or doubt that a particular action may be violating the Code of Ethics, you can ask the following questions:

  • Does the action or conduct violate any point stipulated in the Code of Ethics?

  • Does the action or conduct respect the team’s principles contained in the Code of Ethics?

  • Could the action or conduct damage the organization’s image if it were made public?

  • Could the action or conduct damage my image? Could it affect my honor and privacy?

It is the duty of all members of FAL SEGURIDAD to act in accordance with our responsibilities, diligently, and in compliance with established rules. Any information that negatively impacts the company and its members will be forwarded to the responsible party.

FAL SEGURIDAD will not retaliate against any whistleblower acting in good faith regarding an ethical or regulatory irregularity or potential irregularity that affects the normal operations of the company and its members. All appropriate measures will be taken to guarantee the confidentiality of the information and the actions taken in response to the report. Retaliation will be understood to include dismissal, contract termination, salary or bonus reduction, assignment of unpleasant tasks, and threats of physical or psychological harm.
The mechanisms adopted will adhere to a diligent and serious process, with measures that allow for the prompt resolution of the situation. If the facts or conduct are proven, the appropriate sanctions stipulated in this Code of Ethics will be applied. FAL SEGURIDAD has a channel to handle all these requests for information or complaints by writing to the email address rsc@falseguridad.es.