Policy for the Prevention of Violence and Harassment

Company: ‘PREMIUM BAKERY FOODS’

  • PREMIUM BAKERY FOODS complies with all measures and obligations related to the implementation of the provisions of Part II of Law 4808/2021 for the prevention and addressing of all forms of violence and harassment, including gender-based violence and sexual harassment.
  • The purpose of this policy is to create and establish an excellent working environment that respects, promotes, and ensures human dignity and the right of every individual to a workplace free from violence and harassment. PREMIUM BAKERY FOODS declares that it recognizes and respects the right of every employee to a workplace free from violence and harassment and that it does not tolerate any such behavior, of any form, from any person.
  • This policy is adopted in accordance with Articles 9 and 10 of Law 4808/2021 and the relevant regulatory legislation, and it covers the persons referred to in paragraph 1 of Article 3 of Law 4808/2021.”

Prevention and Combating of Violence and Harassment in the Workplace

Assessment of the risks of violence and harassment at work, which has been added to the existing Risk Assessment Study of the Company. According to this, exposure of an employee to a dangerous situation of violence and harassment at work may lead to physical, psychological, sexual, or financial harm, a violation of personal dignity, and the creation of a intimidating, hostile, demeaning, humiliating, or aggressive environment. It can also lead to anxiety and reduced performance and productivity.

Measures for the prevention, control, limitation, and treatment of these risks, as well as for monitoring such incidents or forms of behavior:

  • Encouragement of maintaining an appropriate work climate where respect for human    dignity, cooperation, and mutual assistance are fundamental values.
  • Open communication with the employer, immediate supervisors, and colleagues.
  • Reporting and complaint management procedures.
  • Ensuring that employees receive the necessary training and information to perform their duties, particularly in positions with a higher risk of violence and harassment incidents.
  • Awareness-raising actions for employees regarding healthy behavioral standards (e.g., avoidance of dependencies), as well as issues concerning vulnerable categories of workers.
  • Guidance and support for victims of violence and harassment or victims of domestic violence to reintegrate into the workplace.
  • Training of employees on procedures for managing violence incidents.

Actions for informing and sensitizing the staff:

The “PREMIUM BAKERY FOODS” company, through its HR Department, organizes targeted meetings with staff to discuss relevant issues and address potential risks in a timely manner. Additionally, it encourages the participation of employee representatives and company executives in training programs and workshops related to the recognition and management of risks of violence and harassment at work.

  • Information on the rights and obligations of employees and the employer, as well as of individuals exercising managerial authority or representing the employer, to the extent and to the degree of their responsibility, in the event of the occurrence, reporting, or complaint of such incidents, as well as the relevant procedure.

Through this Policy and the Disciplinary Proceedings and Sanctions Directive describing the Complaints and Disciplinary Process, “PREMIUM BAKERY FOODS” informs employees that in case a person is affected by an incident of violence and harassment when accessing employment, during the course of the employment relationship, or even if the contract or employment relationship in which the incident or behavior occurred has terminated, they have the right to: a) seek legal protection, b) file a complaint and request the initiation of a labor dispute process with the Labor Inspectorate, within its legal jurisdiction, c) report to the Ombudsman, within its legal jurisdiction, and d) make a complaint within the company in accordance with the company’s complaint management policy. In any case, when a report or complaint of such behavior arises within the company, the affected person retains all rights to appeal to any competent authority.

  • Designation of a contact person (“liaison”) to guide and inform employees about the prevention and management of violence and harassment at work. Employees have the right to express concerns or raise issues through the designated contact person for such incidents.
  • Protection of employment and support for employees who are victims of domestic violence, to the extent possible, through any appropriate means or reasonable accommodation.

Indicative actions by “PREMIUM BAKERY FOODS” include providing special leave or flexible work arrangements upon request from an employee who is a victim of domestic violence, with the aim of supporting them in maintaining employment and smooth reintegration, particularly in cases where there are minors or children with disabilities or serious diseases.

Procedure for Receiving and Investigating Complaints

“PREMIUM BAKERY FOODS” through its Complaints and Disciplinary Penalties Directive informs about:

  • the channels of communication and responsible individuals, which are the Department of Management Systems and a designated contact person, the Responsible for Management Systems.
  • the investigation and examination of complaints with impartiality and the protection of confidentiality and personal data of victims and complainants.
  • the prohibition of retaliation against the affected person, in accordance with Article 13 of Law 4808/2021 and the provisions of labor legislation.
  • the description of consequences in case of violations.

These measures may include recommendations for compliance, change of position, working hours, location, or method of work provision, or the termination of the employment or collaboration relationship, with the reservation of the prohibition of abusing the right under Article 281 AK.

  • cooperation and provision of all relevant information to the competent authorities when requested.

For “PREMIUM BAKERY FOODS” Α.Ε.