code of practice

a set of guidelines used to encourage desirable patterns of behaviour but which generally lack any formal sanctions to punish inappropriate behaviour. Often codes of practice are developed as an alternative to legal regulation. For instance, companies engaged in food production might develop a code of practice between them to define hygiene standards, possibly to forestall government action in this area. Critics of this voluntaristic approach to regulation argue that they provide insufficient deterrents to wrong-doing. However, codes of practice are sometimes developed by official agencies and whilst not legally binding they are taken into account by courts in any legal action in the area covered by the code. For instance, employer adherence to the guidelines in the ADVISORY, CONCILIATION AND ARBITRATION SERVICE'S code of practice on DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES is often an issue in UNFAIR DISMISSAL cases. Where the employer fails to follow the code the tribunal may award against the employer.

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References in periodicals archive

But before the businesses that are in the trade body can use the OFT logo, they have to prove their code of practice is working.

Mark of approval aims to offer peace of mind; ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Phil Khoury has been appointed to review the Code of Practice adhered to by mutual banks, credit unions and building societies.

Former Australian regulator official appointed to review banking code of practice

"The Economic Action Plan, our code of practice, and our ambition to be a fair work nation - all contribute to the same objectives of promoting fair work, eliminating unlawful practice, and allowing our best employers to compete for contracts and customers on a level playing field."

Over 100 organisations sign up to supply chain code of practice

It says Clause (9) of the ethical code of practice as set out in the schedule of PCP Ordinance, 2002 states as, 'The press shall avoid printing, publishing or disseminating any material, which may bring into contempt, Pakistan or its people or tends to undermine its sovereignty or integrity as an independent country'.

PCP seeks reply from newspaper

Transport minister Norman Baker said: "This Code of Practice represents a real step forward in easing the path to make the switch to ultra-low emission vehicles."

Code unifies plug-in car charging

"Tenanted pubs are still not getting a fair deal from the Pubcos that own them - seven in 10 do not think the Code of Practice will improve anything.

Tenants call for a fairer deal with pub landlords

FCS has updated the installation code of practice for wireless equipment in vehicles due to drivers world wide increasingly taking advantage of new technologies.

FCS updates best practice for installation of wireless equipment in vehicles

What does the Code of Practice on disciplinary matters deal with?

Employment issues

The RICS Code of Practice for Service Charges in Commercial Property was introduced last April calling for managing agents to provide their leaseholders with regular, itemised statements of account.

Protecting leaseholders' cash; RETAIL

A new donkey code of practice is being brought in, stopping anyone over eight stone from riding the animals.

...even Blackpool donkeys feel the strain

CEPE has published a "Code of Practice for Coated Articles where the Food Contact Layer is a Coating." The code of practice prepared by the CEPE European Sector Can Coatings, helps can coatings manufacturers comply with the EU Framework Regulation 1935/2004/EC on food contact materials.

CEPE Publishes Code of Practice for direct food contact coatings