WORKPLACE CONDUCT - Policy on Community Standards

Policy on Community Standards

HR – KB0013543

1.  Purpose

This policy establishes the requirements and standard approach to promote a community where all members commit to the same principles of ethics and behavior, even if having different home institutions and employment relationships. The community at Fermilab is broad and diverse and Fermilab’s status as a world-class, scientific-research destination and its reputation as an institution of choice requires a community that promotes professionalism, mutual respect, inclusion, scientific integrity, and that is free from discrimination. Fermilab welcomes a diverse populace with varying backgrounds and experiences including international members. 

This policy is not a contract and is not intended to create any obligations on FermiForward. This policy may be terminated or changed by FermiForward at any time, with or without notice.

2.  Scope

The scope of this policy includes all activities, in any location, to manage and operate Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory under the prime contract with the Department of Energy (DOE).  

3. Applicability

This policy applies to Fermi Forward Discovery Group, LLC and all its employees, users and affiliates, collaborators, subcontractors, consultants, representatives, visitors, and guests from other home institutions. These expectations apply for all interactions including but not limited to those on the Fermilab site (including the Village), at Fermilab installations or Fermilab-supported events that are off-site including Sanford Lab in South Dakota, CERN, and off-site conferences; online within the Fermilab domain; and when representing or associated with Fermilab off-site or online, including in-person interactions, virtual meetings, and on social media.

4.  Effective Date and Date Reviewed/Updated

This policy went into effect on April 1, 2020.

5.  Policy

Fermilab’s status as a world-class, scientific-research destination and its reputation as an institution of choice requires a community that promotes professionalism, mutual respect, inclusion and that is free from discrimination. Fermilab welcomes a diverse populace with varying backgrounds and experiences including international members. Fermilab expects that all community members commit to the same high standards of ethics and behavior.

a.  Responsibility

The responsibility for proactively facilitating a safe and welcoming environment -- including voicing concerns -- rests with each individual member of the Fermilab community. Leading by example, line management, beginning with the lab director, shall hold themselves and their teams accountable.

b.  Basic Principles

The following basic principles apply to all members of the Fermilab community:

(1) Build trust and credibility

Fermilab’s success depends on the trust and confidence we develop with one another and with our stakeholders and partners including the U.S. Department of Energy, the American public, and the global scientific community. As we engage in business on behalf of the Laboratory, we each are ambassadors of Fermilab. Fermilab’s reputation is determined by our words and our actions. We gain credibility by fulfilling on our commitments and, when appropriate, acknowledging when we will not and taking responsibility for the consequences.

(2) Communicate openly and honestly

Every member of the Fermilab community is welcome, and each encouraged to communicate their ideas and/or concerns. We seek to promote open communication which emphasizes listening, creativity, growth and development, collaboration, and inclusivity. This culture encourages respectful discussion and debate for mutual benefit.

(3) Respect one another

Members of the Fermilab community shall be able to work in a safe and welcoming environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Peer-to-peer or supervisory relationships that interfere with an individual’s research or work performance, limit access to educational experiences and career opportunities, or adversely impact an individual’s well-being are unacceptable.

Mutual respect is developed by valuing others and their points of view including those who don’t easily find their voice; being open to correction; recognizing the skills and expertise of others in the Fermilab community; sharing the credit; being courteous; welcoming new perspectives and ideas; continuing to grow and develop and helping others to grow and develop.

c.  How to Report Violations

All members of the Fermilab community are responsible for reporting violations of applicable policies, ethical standards, contractual requirements or laws. You are encouraged to raise concerns about any violation of this Statement of Community Standards. Confidentiality shall be maintained and reporting should proceed without fear of harassment or retribution. Contact your Human Resources Business Partner or report via the Fermilab Concerns Reporting System 877-785-0008 or https://fermilab.compliancelinemcr.com.

 d. Accountability

Fermilab leadership is committed to addressing all incidents promptly and thoroughly. Violations can result in disciplinary action up to and/or including termination of employment, contract and/or site-access privileges.

6. Definitions

Fermilab is the physical site and property that is the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, including the Batavia site, the Lead, SD site, and other satellite sites/facilities.

Fermi Forward Discovery Group, LLC is the operator and manager of the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory under Department of Energy Prime Contract No. 89243024CSC000002 and is the principal employer of personnel working at Fermilab.

7. Responsibilities

Fermilab Community members: responsible for conducting themselves according to the basic principles of: (1) building trust and credibility; (2) communicating openly and honestly; and (3) respecting one another and for reporting violations of applicable policies, ethical standards, contractual requirements or laws.

Human Resources and Fermilab Leadership: responsible for addressing all incidents promptly and thoroughly.

8. Authorities

Prime Contract No. 89243024CSC000002  - Clause I.9 Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct FAR 52.203-13

9. Owner

The Chief Human Resources Officer is the owner of this policy.

10. Review Cycle

This policy shall be reviewed every 1 year.

11.  Communication Plan

The requirements of this policy shall be communicated by the Chief Human Resources Officer to all employees. This policy shall be available on the Fermilab policy website.  The Chief Human Resources Officer is responsible for the communication of this policy.

Revision History