A woman placing a contact lens into her left eye.
 A woman placing a contact lens into her left eye.

Everyday Ethics

Focusing on Everyday Ethics

Our Code of Conduct (“Code”) is an important resource for understanding our values, expectations and ways of doing business at Bausch + Lomb. It is a foundational component of our Ethics and Compliance Program and provides guidance on making informed, smart decisions with integrity every day.

Ethics and Compliance Program

Our iconic and enduring brand is built on the deep trust and loyalty of patients and customers established over our nearly two centuries. We develop, manufacture and market a comprehensive portfolio of approximately 400 products built to serve patients across the full spectrum of their eye health needs.

Our reputation is dependent on the quality of our products and the way we conduct our global business. We are committed to doing business the right way in all our interactions. By focusing on the principles in our Code, we hold each other accountable for ensuring our business is trusted to help patients see better and live better.

Laws, Regulations and Industry Practices

If our Code differs from any applicable federal, state or local law, the more restrictive standard applies. Should you have questions about a potential conflict between our Code and any applicable federal, state or local law, please consult the Legal or Ethics and Compliance Departments to determine proper compliance.

Who follows our Code of Conduct?

We expect our Code will be followed by:

  • ColleaguesColleagues for our Code include full-time and part-time employees, consultants and contractors. and officers
  • Members of our Board of Directors
  • Third parties acting on our behalf

Our Expectations

  • We adhere to the Code’s principles and make ethical decisions every day.
  • We participate in Everyday Ethics because how we do business matters.
  • We comply with the laws and regulations of the countries where we do business.
  • We review and acknowledge the Code annually.
  • We communicate with our manager, Ethics and Compliance, Legal or Human Resources for clarification of any questions about the Code.
  • Third parties will follow the values in our Code when acting on our behalf.

Ethical Decisions and Guidance

Am I making an ethical decision today?

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Is this action legal?
  • Does this meet our corporate values?
  • Is this consistent with our policies?
  • Is it good for patients and consumers?
  • Is this safe for our colleagues?
  • Is this good for the environment?
  • Is this good for our community?
  • Is it permitted by industry standards?
  • Will this protect our reputation?

If all the answers are “Yes,” you are likely making a good decision. If any of these answers is “No” or “Uncertain,” seek guidance before moving forward.

Where do I get guidance?

When in doubt, ask:

  • Your manager or supervisor
  • Ethics and Compliance Department
  • Legal Department
  • Human Resources Department

Our Speak-Up Culture

We are all responsible for compliance at Bausch + Lomb. All good faith reports of suspected violations of our Code, policies, laws or regulations will be assessed. Ethics and Compliance will oversee all investigations and will collaborate with the Legal and Human Resources departments to execute the investigation plan. Anyone found in violation will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

We are expected to use good judgment and common sense to comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations and to ask for guidance when we are uncertain about them. Our success and reputation depend on our having the courage to speak up when we encounter situations that we suspect may be unethical or violate the law, our Code, our policies or industry standards.

How do I report a compliance concern?

You can contact:

  • Your manager or supervisor
  • Ethics and Compliance Department
  • Legal Department
  • Human Resources Department
  • Business Ethics Hotline, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Protection from Retaliation

We speak up, raise our compliance concerns and seek guidance with confidence and courage. When you ask a question, report possible misconduct or take part in an investigation into suspected violations of policy or law, you are living our values and doing right by the company, our colleagues, patients and our customers. Under no circumstances will Bausch + Lomb retaliate against you or tolerate any retaliation against you.

Retaliation can take many forms, from being unfairly dismissed, given unfavorable work assignments or inaccurate performance reviews, to being the target of bullying or derogatory comments by managers or others.

Our Expectations

  • We ask questions and seek advice.
  • We make ethical decisions.
  • We report suspected violations of law, our Code and industry standards.
  • We investigate each claim and take appropriate action.
  • We prohibit retaliation against those who raise concerns and support our investigations.
  • We take all claims of retaliation seriously.
  • We consider acts of retaliation to be acts of misconduct.

Bausch + Lomb retains sole discretion in interpreting and applying our Code. Our Code may be updated, amended, modified or withdrawn at any time in our sole discretion.

Please see Business Ethics Reporting Policy For Bausch + Lomb Colleagues Only for further information.

Central Policy Portal For Colleagues

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