Our approach to human rights

The GF Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) process based on international conventions and standards to ensure that our actions are in line with new and emerging regulations and transparency requirements.

GF’s HRDD process consists of six core elements that enable it to proactively identify and address both potential and existing human rights issues within its sphere of influence across the entire value chain. 

The evaluation covers a wide range of human rights concerns, including but not limited to safe and healthy working environments, forced labor, human trafficking, child labor, rest and leisure rights, freedom of association, the right to engage in collective bargaining, living wages, non-discrimination, data protection and privacy, gender equality, and measures against corruption. A systematic methodology is employed, which includes regular annual assessments of risk mapping to identify and address potential challenges.

The GF Corporate Policy on Conflict Minerals details GF Conflict Minerals Due Diligence process, which is in accordance with the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas. The policy delineates the expectations for suppliers to implement appropriate due diligence measures. Furthermore, the Corporate Conflict Minerals Standard specifies the requirements and procedures for the responsible sourcing of materials throughout GF operations.

GF engages in outreach to suppliers within the due diligence framework, requesting them to submit a smelter overview utilizing the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) Conflict Minerals Reporting Template (CMRT) for tin, tungsten, tantalum and gold (3TG) and the Extended Minerals Reporting Template (EMRT) for cobalt and mica.

GF consistently shares transparent information regarding its mineral and metals supply chain and encourages its suppliers to adopt a similar approach. A list of identified smelters for 3TG, cobalt, and mica within GF’s supply chain, along with the countries of origin for 3TG, can be requested through the division-level procurement departments or via email at sustainability@georgfischer.com.

In compliance with the Swiss Ordinance on Due Diligence and Transparency concerning Minerals and Metals sourced from Conflict-Affected Areas and Child Labour (DDTrO), GF performs annual assessments. These assessments employ the designated material tariff numbers outlined in Annex 1, Part A (pertaining to minerals) and Part B (pertaining to metals) of the DDTrO, concentrating on the importation and processing of minerals and metals within Switzerland or its divisional locations. Further details can be found in the Sustainability Statement 2024.

In 2024, GF successfully completed sustainability assessments for 82% of its relevant procurement expenditures. This achievement aligns with the current due diligence requirements across all sourcing categories and supports the five-year objectives outlined in the GF Sustainability Framework 2025. 

Additional information can be found in the “Supplier Sustainability Performance” section, under ESRS G1 Business conduct, within the Sustainability Statement 2024.

GF is firmly dedicated to eradicating forced labor and child labor in its own operations as well as those of its suppliers and business partners, as outlined in its GF Corporate Policy on Human Rights. The GF Code of Business Partners explicitly prohibits child labor, and GF maintains a zero-tolerance stance towards such practices within its operations and among its business partners. Employment of individuals under the age of 15 is strictly forbidden, and those under 18 are not permitted to engage in hazardous work, night shifts, or overtime. Business partners are required to adhere to national laws regarding the minimum working age or, in the absence of such laws, to comply with the ILO core labor standards.

To evaluate the risks associated with child labor in the countries where its suppliers operate, GF utilizes the most recent UNICEF Children's Rights in the Workplace Index. This index serves as a valuable resource for companies to ascertain the necessary level of human rights due diligence when engaging in business within a particular nation.

GF is actively conducting an internal assessment of raw materials and purchased components on an ongoing basis, including their countries of origin. This analysis confirms that GF does not engage with suppliers from countries where children’s rights are notably endangered and where “heightened” due diligence is required. 

Further details can be found in the section titled “GF’s position on child labor and forced labor” under ESRS S1 Own workforce, within the Sustainability Statement 2024.