SGS Systems and Services Certification (SSC) Statement of Impartiality

SGS SSC understands the importance of impartiality and potential conflicts of interests in carrying out its management systems certification activities.

SGS has a compliance program, based on its Code of Integrity and Professional Conduct, to ensure that the highest standards of integrity are applied to all its activities worldwide in accordance with international best practice. Details of this program can be found at http://www.sgs.com/about_sgs/compliance_integrity.htm

Within SSC we conduct risk assessment annually and where required in relation to specific activities or contracts on impartiality and potential conflict of interest relating to Accredited Certification business this is reviewed by the impartiality committee of the Accredited Certification Body, which is an independent committee made up of members representing our key interests.

Conflict of Interest and objectivity is further covered through annual training sessions and contractually binding agreements, to ensure all management system certification activities are conducted in an independent and impartial manner.

Second version of November 12^th 2009. Published on line on November 13^th 2009