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Supplier code of conduct template

A clear code setting the labour, ethical and environmental standards you expect from suppliers.

A supplier code of conduct sets out the standards you expect from suppliers on labour, health and safety, environment, business ethics and data protection. Customers and tender panels increasingly ask whether you have one and how you check it.

This template is written in plain English so suppliers understand it, with sections you can adapt to your sector. It includes how suppliers should raise concerns and what happens if standards are not met.

Free to download. Available as Word and PDF.

What's included

  • Purpose and scope
  • Labour standards and Modern Slavery
  • Health and safety
  • Environment and emissions
  • Business ethics and anti-bribery
  • Data protection and confidentiality
  • Monitoring, reporting concerns and consequences

How to use this template

  1. Adapt each section to your business and the risks in your supply chain.
  2. Have it approved by senior management.
  3. Share it with suppliers and ask them to confirm acceptance.
  4. Reference it in contracts and purchase order terms.
  5. Check compliance through questionnaires and audits for higher-risk suppliers.

Frequently asked questions

It is not always a legal requirement, but many customers and tenders ask for one. It also supports your Modern Slavery statement if you publish one.

Use questionnaires for most suppliers and audits for those in higher-risk countries or sectors.

Most codes set out a corrective action process first, with termination as a last resort for serious or repeated breaches.

Need help putting this into practice?

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Last updated 22 October 2026