The policies and procedures adopted by the company are designed not to merely ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, but also to maximize sustainable returns, provide all stakeholders with the assurance that the business is being managed appropriately and to safeguard the people, assets and reputation of the company.

Code of Ethics
The principles encouraged by the board of directors amongst staff are highest levels of integrity and credibility, to be practiced at all levels of operations within the group, as well as in all dealings with outside parties.

The company has formalised detailed statements on ethics, safety, health and environmental issues which are incorporated into the accreditation in terms of ISO 9001:2000 and 14001:2004. Accreditation is audited on an individual basis by international accreditation agencies.

A code of ethics covering all aspects of the business and stakeholders is incorporated in the company's Policies and Procedures Manual to which all employees are required to comply.

Social Impact
The company recognises that human capital development and safety is critical to its sustainability and various policies and procedures have been put in place to facilitate these matters.

Specific policy guidelines have been established for dealing with HIV / AIDS in the workplace. This policy is reviewed regularly to ensure compliance and adherence to any social or legislative developments.

Audit Committee
Established in 1988 – has terms of reference which clearly set out its scope and objectives. Consists of three independent non-executive directors and three non-executive directors and meets three times a year.

The Audit Committee considers comprehensive reports from:

• The internal audit and risk department regarding the output of the risk management process and the adequacy and effectiveness of financial and operational control measures
• The SHEQ (safety, health, environment, quality) department regarding social and environmental matters
• The external auditors regarding the planning and results of their audit activities

The audit committee evaluates the group exposures and response to significant risks, including sustainability issues.

Risk Management
The company has an internal audit and risk management function which supports management’s responsibility to maintain systems of internal control designed to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are concluded in accordance with management’s authority and that assets are adequately controlled and protected against loss.

The complete group risk management process is implemented through a hierarchical structure consisting of the:

• Board of Directors
• Audit Committee
• Management Committee
• Divisional Management
• Branch Management

and is co-ordinated by the group audit and risk department.