Ethics OpenLine: The Workforce's Resource (Excerpt from November 1998 Circuit)

Decision-making is a complicated process. Satisfying diverse customer requirements, working with U.S. and foreign governments, and complying with intricate contract specifications can make decisions difficult. Making the right choice isn't always obvious. This is why the Ethics OpenLine was implemented. When an employee finds himself or herself in a gray area, the OpenLine can assist.

Since its implementation in 1986, thousands of inquiries have been answered via the OpenLine call process. Simply, it's support resource available to the entire workforce and intended to augment primary sources of information and assistance, such as local management and Human Resources representatives. Through the OpenLine, employees can solicit information on a variety of compliance issues, such as gifts and gratuities, labor charging, and Internet or Intranet use.

In addition to inquiries, the OpenLine is also available to receive allegations from employees suspecting business conduct wrongdoing. The OpenLine process provides an alternative reporting method and enables employees to exercise their responsibility to report violations of Northrop Grumman Standards of Business Conduct without fear of reprisal. Further, our U.S. government customer community has recognized the Northrop Grumman OpenLine process as an important element towards effective self-governance.

Trust is an essential element in the OpenLine process. Therefore, callers may remain anonymous. When a case is opened, the site Business Conduct Officer assigns it a unique identification number. The caller may receive follow-up information relative to a case by referring to this number during subsequent calls.

In addition, privacy is protected regardless of who is involved. Files are secure, and only those who have a strict "need to know" to resolve a case will be informed. The Ethics and Business Conduct Office won't release information except to meet legal or regulatory requirements.

At times, everyone needs help to make the right decision. Employees are encouraged to use the OpenLine when they have questions or concerns. A strong self-governing ethics program builds customer trust, investor confidence, and employee pride.

The ES³ OpenLine number is (410) 765-1919. Corporate's toll-free OpenLine number is (800) 247-4952.

Top ten reasons to use OpenLine?

It provides an avenue for candid one-on-one communication.
It provides objective guidance and coaching on any business conduct issue.
It allows anonymity.
It protects employees, as well as the company, from risk of violations.
It provides visibility into workforce trends and needs.
It provides a method of reporting wrongdoing without fear of reprisal.
It facilitates process challenges and improvements.
Its primary mission is to service you, our employee.
It's readily accessible from virtually everywhere by phone.
It's quick, easy, and free!
ES³ OpenLine (410) 765-1919

Corporate (800) 247-4952