Code of Conduct for STAR Labs
This Code of Conduct is applicable to all personnel at STAR Labs, irrespective of their roles or employment terms. This includes members of the Board of Directors, interns, trainees, and third-party contractors present on STAR Labs premises, collectively referred to as "Employee(s)." Employees are required to adhere to the standards set forth in this Code and to stay updated on its provisions and any changes. Compliance with relevant government regulations and local laws is mandatory. Violations of this Code may lead to disciplinary actions, which can include termination of employment. STAR Labs provides a secure channel for all employees to confidentially report any unethical or illegal activities that may violate professional standards or this Code of Conduct. Employees can report concerns anonymously or openly, with all submissions treated seriously. Reports can be made directly to the HR Department or sent via email to info@starlabs.com.pk.
Workplace Respect and Integrity
All employees are expected to treat colleagues, customers, and business partners with respect. STAR Labs is committed to maintaining a safe work environment free from harassment, discrimination, and unprofessional behavior. Any instances of harassment or bullying must be reported immediately.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
STAR Labs values a diverse workforce and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture. Discrimination based on any characteristic—such as religion, race, gender, age, or disability—is strictly prohibited. This commitment extends to all aspects of employment, from recruitment to employee development.
Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest
Employees and board members must exercise good judgment to prevent conflicts between personal interests and those of STAR Labs. It is vital to disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest, which may arise from various situations, including outside employment or financial ties.
Safeguarding Confidential Information
Protecting sensitive and proprietary information is critical at STAR Labs. Employees must ensure that such information is kept secure and not used inappropriately or without authorization.
Substance Abuse Policy
STAR Labs is committed to providing a healthy workplace devoid of alcohol and drug misuse. This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors, regardless of the time or place.
Anti-Bribery Standards
STAR Labs prohibits any form of bribery, including gifts, payments, or benefits that could be seen as attempting to gain an unfair advantage. Employees must not engage in or accept actions intended to improperly influence decisions.
Addressing Misconduct
Misconduct refers to any violation of this Code. Serious or repeated infractions may result in disciplinary actions, including warnings or termination. Specific examples of misconduct include demonstrating behavior against STAR Labs' values, defaming STAR Labs and its employees across various platforms, negligence or carelessness in the performance of duty, being habitually late or absent without permission, leaving the job without permission or conducting personal affairs at work without authorization, committing acts that could affect the safety of others, disturbing other employees during work hours, failing to meet specific performance targets, using profane or abusive language while on duty, unauthorized use of STAR Labs’ letterhead or logo, failing to declare foreseeable conflicts of interest, and willful misuse or mistreatment of property.
Gift Acceptance and Hospitality
Employees should handle gifts and hospitality responsibly, ensuring compliance with established limits and avoiding situations that could undermine integrity or influence business decisions.
Official Representation of STAR Labs
Employees are not authorized to speak on behalf of STAR Labs without prior written consent from the CEO, MD, or Chairman. Communication with the media or public should be approached with caution.
Enforcement and Compliance
STAR Labs is committed to enforcing this Code and ensuring that all employees understand their responsibilities. Management and the HR Department will regularly monitor compliance and address any violations promptly.
Training and Awareness
To uphold the standards outlined in this Code, STAR Labs will provide regular training sessions to ensure all employees are familiar with the policies and understand the expectations for ethical behavior.
Reporting Concerns
Employees share the responsibility for identifying and reporting suspected fraudulent activities. Any employee who suspects fraudulent conduct should notify their Department Head or Group Head. If the immediate supervisor is implicated, the issue should be escalated to a higher authority. Confidentiality of the whistleblower is assured, and retaliation is not tolerated. Detailed procedures for reporting concerns will be outlined in the training sessions.
Employee Rights and Responsibilities
All employees have the right to a safe and respectful work environment and are responsible for reporting any unethical behavior they witness. STAR Labs encourages an open dialogue about ethics and integrity to foster a positive workplace culture.
Sexual Harassment Policy
STAR Labs is committed to providing a work environment free from sexual harassment. Examples of sexual harassment include unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors, inappropriate touching or physical contact, sexually oriented comments, jokes, or gestures, displaying or distributing sexually suggestive materials, and implying that employment decisions will be made based on an employee’s submission to or rejection of sexual overtures. All employees are encouraged to report any instances of sexual harassment to their supervisor, departmental head, or HR department. STAR Labs will take all complaints seriously and investigate them thoroughly. Retaliation against individuals who report harassment or participate in investigations is strictly prohibited.
Misconduct – Breach of the Code of Conduct
Serious misconduct involves repeated violations of the Code. Established misconduct may lead to reprimands or warnings. Serious misconduct may result in dismissal, which can include termination without notice. STAR Labs reserves the right to take legal action if necessary.
Policy Amendments
This policy may be revised at the discretion of STAR Labs. The Chairman retains the authority to approve any exceptions or special conditions that align with the organization’s best interests.
STAR Labs is dedicated to fostering a workplace that promotes ethical behavior, respect, and integrity. By adhering to this Code of Conduct, we can ensure a positive work environment for all employees and uphold the values of our organization.