
Equality & Diversity Policy
Purpose
This Equality & Diversity Policy outlines our commitment to creating an inclusive, fair, and respectful workplace for all employees, clients, and stakeholders. It aligns with ISO 9001 (Quality Management), ISO 14001 (Environmental Management), and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety Management) standards and addresses the impact of climate change on promoting diversity and inclusion in our workforce.
Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, and stakeholders involved in the operations of AKON, ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and dignity regardless of their background, identity, or role within the company.
Policy Statement
AKON is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is celebrated and equality is upheld. Our approach integrates compliance with ISO standards, supporting quality, environmental sustainability, and workplace health and safety. We are committed to addressing climate change impacts that may disproportionately affect marginalised groups, ensuring fair treatment and support for all employees.
Objectives
-
Promote Equality and Diversity: To ensure all employees have equal opportunities, free from discrimination, in line with ISO 9001 principles of fairness, transparency, and continuous improvement.
-
Foster an Inclusive Environment: To create a workplace where differences are respected and valued, enhancing the safety, well-being, and productivity of our workforce as per ISO 45001.
-
Environmental Responsibility: To address environmental sustainability and ensure our practices do not disproportionately impact any group, aligning with ISO 14001 standards.
-
Climate Change Considerations: To understand and mitigate the effects of climate change on diverse groups, providing support for those disproportionately impacted by environmental changes.
Commitments
-
Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination
-
AKON Security will not tolerate any form of discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law.
-
All employment decisions, including recruitment, promotion, training, and compensation, will be based on merit, skills, and performance.
-
Compliance with Standards and Legal Requirements
-
Our equality and diversity practices align with ISO 9001 by promoting fair processes, open communication, and accountability.
-
We ensure a safe and healthy working environment where all employees are respected, valued, and provided with the opportunity to thrive.
-
Environmental decisions will consider the impact on all employees, especially those from vulnerable groups, ensuring compliance with ISO 14001.
-
Climate Change and Social Equity
-
Recognize that climate change can exacerbate social inequalities and commit to adapting our policies and practices to support those affected.
-
Provide flexibility and support for employees facing climate-related challenges, such as extreme weather or health impacts.
-
Training and Awareness
-
Offer regular training to all employees on equality, diversity, and inclusion, emphasizing the importance of a respectful workplace and compliance with ISO standards.
-
Educate employees on the impacts of climate change on diverse communities and how to promote inclusivity and support.
-
Inclusive Environmental Practices
-
Engage diverse groups in sustainability initiatives and ensure that environmental actions do not adversely impact any specific community.
-
Promote an inclusive approach to environmental management by involving employees from various backgrounds in decision-making.
-
Monitoring, Reporting, and Continuous Improvement
-
Regularly monitor and review our equality and diversity practices to ensure compliance with ISO standards and identify areas for improvement.
-
Use feedback from employees, audits, and performance data to refine our approach and ensure that our workplace is inclusive, safe, and sustainable.
-
Support and Reporting Mechanisms
-
Provide clear channels for employees to report concerns about discrimination, inequality, or environmental impacts affecting specific groups.
-
Ensure grievances are handled promptly, confidentially, and in line with company procedures to maintain a supportive work environment.
Responsibilities
-
Management: Lead by example in promoting equality and diversity, ensure compliance with relevant standards, and drive continuous improvement in inclusive practices.
-
Employees: Treat colleagues with respect, participate in training, and contribute to an inclusive and supportive workplace.
-
Diversity and Inclusion Officer: Oversee the implementation of this policy, monitor compliance, conduct training, and provide guidance on promoting equality and addressing climate-related impacts.
Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or when significant changes occur in standards, legislation, or company operations. Feedback from employees, audits, and diversity assessments will inform updates to this policy.
Approval
This policy is approved by and will be communicated to all relevant parties.
Managing Director
Name: Oliver Nonis
Date: 08/01/2024