Policies

IES strives for zero harm to people, property, the environment and the communities in which we operate.    We endeavour to be good corporate citizens creating sustainable value for our shareholders people and customers whilst caring for the environment and valuing cultural heritage in our host communities.

We apply sound principles in leading Health, Safety, Environment activities, and apply good business conduct principles and governance in the way we do business wherever we operate globally.   

Zero harm is a core value, supported by a culture that ensures it is an absolute priority across all our businesses with a fundamental belief that all work related injury and illness can be prevented. 

Adherence to these standards and their corresponding policies is mandatory for all IES staff and at all IES sites and operations. Regular policy audits are undertaken to ensure their effectiveness and policies are constantly updated.  

A summary of our Key IES policies are below.  If you would like to see the full policy documents please contact your IES representative:

Health, Safety, Security and Environment Policy

It is the policy of IES to maintain the highest possible levels of health, safety, security and environmental awareness for all employees, contractors, customers and suppliers at all times and throughout the company. The company seeks to identify potential hazards in the workplace and implement strategies to minimise risks associated with these hazards. Employees are encouraged to be proactive in identifying and reporting risks.

IES is also committed to ensuring that environmental awareness is central to all employees’ daily routines. The highest standards of environmental management are encouraged across all divisions of the company.  

Energy and Carbon Management Policy

IES strives to improve financial performance and reduce impacts upon the environment and on society as whole. IES is therefore committed to managing and reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions wherever this may be viable.

Specifically, IES is committed to:  

• Reducing energy consumption per unit of product transported;
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions per unit of product transported;
• Improving energy efficiency in IES depots;
• Actively managing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions;
• Reviewing the carbon and energy management policy and strategy annually; and
• Publishing current energy and greenhouse performance to key stakeholders.  

Workplace and Information Access and Security Policy

IES is committed to providing a safe and secure place of work.  Appropriate security measures are adopted to prevent unauthorised access to premises and prevent harm, damage, loss or interference with information, technological systems, services or equipment, as appropriate to the size and nature of the business.   

Individual site management is responsible for ensuring risks and controls are assessed and appropriate to the nature, location, size and scope of their activities.

Personal Protective Equipment Policy

IES is committed to providing a safe place of work and to promote a safe working environment for all employees. As far as practicable, IES maintains a harm free work environment and where appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required to ensure people are not exposed to potential harm. 

To ensure the highest level of safety and protection, IES staff are issued with appropriate protective equipment and trained in its use.    All protective equipment is selected based on its appropriateness for the individual’s role and workplace environment and includes (amongst other equipment) hard hats, neck, wrist, hand and ankle protection, hearing protection, safety glasses, high visibility vests, protective footwear and protective headwear as well as sun protection for outdoor workplaces.

IES continually seeks improvement to reduce the need for PPE control measures where practicable.

Fatigue Management Policy

IES is committed to providing a harm-free work environment and we recognise the impact fatigue may have on a person’s health, safety and performance.  We encourage a supportive workplace that promotes good physical and mental health and are passionate about evaluating and continuously improving the technology and processes we use for fatigue management.  

We recognise that fatigue can be the result of many varying contributors and these can be cumulative.   We encourage a risk management approach to identify and target any potential fatigue factors for assessment and control on a situational basis.

IES staff are made aware of the impact that activities such as a second job, sport, insufficient sleep, recreational pursuits, consumption of alcohol and drugs (prescribed or otherwise), and stressful situations can have on their state of alertness and general wellbeing.

Our transport operations have achieved Basic Fatigue Management System (BFM) accreditation in conformance with the transport industry national reforms for professional driver fatigue management programs.  

Equal Opportunity and Inclusiveness Policy

As an equal opportunity employer, IES offers all employees the opportunity for career and personal development.  

IES is committed to providing an inclusive work environment that is fair and equitable, free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, bullying and victimisation.   Our aim is to facilitate an employment culture where individual differences are respected and valued, where everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and fairness whilst performing their work.

We educate staff on our EEO and Inclusiveness policy, behaviours and practices.  We encourage staff to raise any concerns and ensure that any breach or complaint is investigated and actioned appropriately.    

We facilitate a performance culture where assessment is based upon achievement of duties and objectives and recruit or promote people based on merit.  

We are proud to provide an environment that actively engages staff and allows them to contribute to their full potential and career aspirations.  

Alcohol and Drugs Policy

IES is committed to providing a safe working environment that is alcohol and illicit drug free.    IES recognises that alcohol and drugs can affect the capacity of a person to carry out their duties effectively and could pose a risk to endanger themselves and others, as well as causing property damage.    

Fostering the welfare and well-being of our employees, contractors, customers and members of the public is paramount to our operations.  Our aim is to prevent harm associated with people being impaired by alcohol or drugs whilst working for, or on behalf of IES, by adopting a range of strategies that cover;

• Education and awareness for an alcohol and illicit drug free workplace
• Random and post significant incident testing
• Employee assistance programs
• Disciplinary measures for any verified breach.  

IES does not condone or support the use, possession, cultivation or trafficking of illicit drugs, any alcohol in the workplace, or the misuse and abuse of prescription or other medication.  Any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action that could lead to dismissal or termination of contract.  

The scope of this policy applies to all IES premises, customer/supplier work premises, operational vehicles, social functions and activities whilst on duty for or on behalf of IES.  We are committed to the continuous improvement of performance to maintain an alcohol and illicit drug free, safe work environment.  

HSSE Consultation Policy

IES recognises the importance of consultation in creating an inclusive culture facilitating strong employee involvement to achieve our vision of zero harm.   

This is a culture where employees are engaged and strongly involved in HSSE decisions which affect their workplace, where they feel a sense of contribution, ownership and accomplishment.

As far as is reasonably practicable, IES will endeavour to consult on HSSE changes, initiatives, performance and issues that directly affect our workplaces.   Where possible we ensure reasonable opportunity is provided in seeking employee feedback, drawing on their knowledge, experience and ideas.

We share and ensure accessible HSSE information for all employees using a variety of mechanisms (eg noticeboards, emails, information flyers, newsletters, tool box meetings, workplace HSSE committees, driver-customer committees).

Our overriding aim is to develop employee’s engagement and provide them with the necessary tools and skills to support their successful involvement in achieving zero harm.

Mobile phones and other devices whilst driving Policy

IES is committed to providing a harm-free working environment.     We recognise driving can be hazardous and the use of communication and similar technology places the driver and other road users at increased risk of danger from physical and cognitive distraction. 

Whether driving for personal, work or leisure purposes, using a hand-held mobile phone whilst driving is illegal in Australia and many other countries we operate in such as; Singapore, India and certain USA states.     The use of hands-free technology is legally allowed in most countries, however we acknowledge it can still interfere with the maximum concentration needed for safe driving.  

IES professional transport drivers are prohibited from using hand-held devices whilst driving.  Trucks have specialised communication technology installed to negate the need for hands-free phone use, except in an emergency situation. 

For our non-transport drivers and when people are driving outside of work  purposes,  best practice is not to use any hands-free technology whilst driving, however if it is unavoidable, IES is committed to limiting the risks by:

Using legally compliant and professionally fitted hands-free or voice activated technology.    

Considering risks such as; heavy traffic, poor conditions (road/weather) and unfamiliarity with the route before deciding to use it. 

• Using it sparingly, keeping conversations short and not initiating calls unless unable to safely pull over and park.   The only exception is if there is an emergency situation and it is unsafe to pull over and stop, then dial 000 to connect to emergency services.
• Informing any callers you are driving and determine whether it is an urgent priority to be dealt with now or to call back later. 
• Planning the journey so it includes time and places for rest stops and the chance to check messages and return calls.
• Avoiding complex or emotional conversations by telling the person you will call back when able to safely pull over and park. 
• Continuously improving our technology, systems and practices to minimise risk exposure.  

This policy applies to all IES people driving for work purposes and recommended for people driving in their personal time.   CB, UHF or two way radios’ are a crucial safety alert system in regional/remote areas where there is limited phone network capability.  If these must be used these whilst driving, the above commitments apply.

Privacy Policy

IES is committed to protecting the privacy of personal, commercial and confidential information.     We treat very seriously the ongoing trust and rights of all people associated with IES businesses.     Compliance with Privacy legislation wherever we operate globally is fundamental to the way we do business and demonstrates good business conduct and governance.   

Where specific legislation does not exist, IES will apply existing protocols based on the highest level of privacy principles.      

IES has systems and procedures in place to protect the privacy of all personal and/or confidential/sensitive information collected in the course of doing business.   

This policy applies to all people potentially or actually working for, with or on behalf of IES globally.   IES operates in a dynamic business environment and aspects of our business, market or legislative requirements may change.  Our policy is regularly reviewed to continuously improve and reflect these changing needs.

Code of Conduct Policy

IES is committed to maintaining the highest reputation globally.   Our success depends on our ability to consistently demonstrate that we are trustworthy, deliver what we promise, and adhere to the highest level of ethical and lawful conduct behaving responsibly at all times in our global working environment.

Where specific legislation does not exist, IES will apply our own protocols based on the highest level of reputable principles.   IES operates in a dynamic and changing business environment therefore our policy is regularly reviewed to continuously improve and reflect these changing needs. 

The acceptance of employment within IES is an implicit commitment to observe all IES policies, code of conduct and performance agreements.  Failure to do so will be investigated and may result in disciplinary action leading to dismissal or termination of contract where substantiated.  Any criminal or unlawful conduct will be reported to the IES Managing Director, Board Review and Compliance Committee and external authorities as appropriate.

This policy applies to all people working for, or on behalf of IES wherever we operate globally with the aim of exceeding these standards at all times.

The IES Code of Conduct is the standard expected to ensure IES people understand their obligations when undertaking duties and maintaining professional relationships with others (internal/external).  The code of conduct can not cover all possible scenarios; it is a list of minimum standards to be used as a guide.  People are required to exercise good judgement when interpreting this policy to determine acceptable levels of conduct when dealing with situations not explicitly mentioned in the policy and supporting documentation.        

Performance Management and Discipline Policy

IES is committed to maintaining the highest standards of performance globally to achieve our operational and service objectives in a manner consistent with our values, legislation and performance expectations. Where specific legislation does not exist, IES will apply our own protocols based on the highest level of staff management principles.   IES operates in a dynamic environment and our business may change which can result in reviewing and resetting policy, performance expectations and accountabilities. 

IES encourages fair and consistent practices to promote learning and development.  We maintain a high performance culture based on the recognition of achievement and progressing career aspirations.

The acceptance of employment within IES is an implicit commitment to comply with all IES policies, conduct and performance agreements. 

Where these are not met, fair processes are implemented to resolve any disparities or disputes arising out of the employment relationship.  These may lead to disciplinary action and termination of contract or employment where substantiated.    This policy applies to all people working for, or on behalf of IES wherever we operate globally.  

Injury/Illness Management and Compensation Policy

IES is committed to preventing injury/illness through providing a safe and healthy work environment to minimise any personal, social and economic consequences of workplace incidents wherever we operate globally.   However, in the event a workplace injury/illness may occur, we are dedicated to providing effective management to achieve the earliest possible safe return to work.  

IES is in pursuit of best practical levels for physical and psychological recovery.  We provide injury and claim management processes that comply with local, national and international legislative requirements.    We are committed to:

• Continuously improving the injury management processes and communicating responsibilities and rights to all IES people.  We will utilise qualified rehabilitation providers with trained RTW coordinators for best management practices.
• Providing encouragement for early reporting and intervention to minimise injury severity.   We will make every effort to re-integrate people back to the workplace as quickly and safely as possible.
• Commencing the management process as soon as possible after a work injury has occurred.  In addition, we will make all reasonable efforts to provide the same support for people that sustain a non-work injury.
• Utilising an agreed team approach, consulting with the person, medical specialists, manager, rehabilitation providers, RTW coordinators and requested employee representatives.  
• Maintaining confidentiality of information and obtaining consent to gather/release information as required.  We manage claims efficiently, in an equitable and timely manner.    

Whistleblower Policy

IES is committed to best practice in maintaining high standards of corporate governance, compliance and ethical behaviour. One of the principal responsibilities of the IES Board is to monitor the IES Group’s compliance with any legal, regulatory or ethical requirements applicable to the Group.

We are committed to the timely reporting of fraud, corrupt conduct, legal or regulatory non-compliance and any other adverse ethical behaviour. Accordingly, we have the appropriate structures and processes in place to enable communication and resolution of these issues.

This policy covers the procedures for dealing with reports of any known or suspected Improper Conduct within the IES Group. It also addresses the protection of individuals making those reports.