Responsibilities and Consequences

  1. What are the consequences of a violation of Northrop Grumman's standards?
    1. Employees who violate company standards of conduct, especially those relating to our relationships with the United States Government will be subject to disciplinary action. Violations related to commercial customers, to compliance with contract requirements, or to other subjects covered in this booklet, will also be subject to disciplinary actions. Such action may include suspension or termination of employment or reimbursement to Northrop Grumman for financial losses suffered. Violations also may result in civil or criminal penalties.
  2. Who else besides an employee who violates the standards is subject to discipline?
    1. An employee who witnesses the violation and fails to report it may be subject to discipline. Also, a supervisor may be subject to discipline to the extent that the violation reflects inadequate supervision or lack of diligence.
  3. Should I tell someone if I believe Northrop Grumman's Standards of Business Conduct are being violated?

    1. Yes, and in most cases the person to tell is your supervisor or manager. However, Northrop Grumman recognizes this is not always easy, and provides several ways to get help in this situation.

      Business Conduct Officers are available throughout every Northrop Grumman division, and these BCOs can help to get answers to your questions, or can initiate an investigation upon a report of improper conduct. Depending on the issue involved, there are several other Northrop Grumman organizations, including Employee Relations, Security, Law, Contracts, or Materiel, that may be able to advise you.

      In addition, Northrop Grumman has established a nationwide, toll-free telephone line into its corporate Ethics & Business Conduct Office at 1-800-247-4952. You may use this line to ask questions or raise concerns.

      In acting responsibly to alert Northrop Grumman to possible problems, you are assured that the company will protect your confidence and conduct a thorough review of the matter. If we have a way to get back in touch with you, we will let you know how the matter is resolved.

  4. I witnessed a violation, but my supervisor or co-workers might figure out who reported it and retaliate. What should I do?
    1. You should report it. It is not only your right to express your concerns, it is your responsibility. The company will treat your information as confidential and you may remain anonymous if you desire. In any case, company policy prohibits direct or indirect retaliation on anyone reporting a violation of the Standards of Business Conduct.
  5. Do the Standards of Business Conduct apply to people other than employees?
    1. Yes. They apply to members of the Board of Directors, consultants, agents, contract labor (job shoppers) and anyone who represents the company in any capacity.