Code of conduct

Introduction

This Code of Conduct applies to all staff, Trustees, Advisory Council members, attendees, sponsors, volunteers and third parties. This Code of Conduct sets out the standard of behaviour and conduct expected by the Microbiology Society generally and in various scenarios, including but not limited to attendance and/or participation in Society-led activities, those representing the Society at any external events, and any meetings and/or activities. This applies in every space related to our own and external events, at social events associated with an event (irrespective of venue), and to all participants and staff in every role across all Society meetings and activities.

There is an additional Trustee Code of Conduct which also applies to Trustees of the Microbiology Society in respect of their role on the board.

The code of conduct should be read alongside the Code of Conduct complaints procedure.

Code of Conduct

We expect cooperation from all to help ensure a safe environment for everyone and we will enforce this code across all Society activities and/or events. We do not tolerate harassment, discrimination or bullying of participants, attendees, volunteers or staff in any form. This includes offensive verbal or written comments, sexual language and imagery (at events or on social media and other online platforms), deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing, unsolicited photography or recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention. Recognising that there may sometimes be a power imbalance, all attendees, participants and/or members must not abuse their relative position of power or inappropriately take advantage of a relationship where a power imbalance exists.

You also agree to the following:

• Respect and Dignity: treat everyone fairly and without prejudice or discrimination, respecting differences in gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, ethnicity, or religion (or lack thereof).
• Honesty and Integrity: act with integrity and honesty, complying with the law, the policies of the Society and its interests.
• Confidentiality: respect the privacy of others and keep any personal information secure.
• Safety and Risk: use equipment safely, follow health and safety guidelines, and report any potential risks or harm to individuals.
• Professional Conduct: be a positive role model, use appropriate language, maintain professional standards in all interactions and not act in a way that could bring the Society into disrepute or damage its reputation.
• Accountability: be responsible for your role and actions.
• Raising Concerns: challenge inappropriate behaviour and immediately report any breaches of the code of conduct as set out in this policy.

Those in violation of this Code of Conduct may be removed from the activity and/or event at the discretion of the Society and may not be entitled to a refund or expenses. Those in breach could also face disciplinary action or face other sanctions pursuant to the Code of Conduct Complaints Procedure.  Members violating these rules may also be removed from the membership at the discretion of the Microbiology Society’s Board of Trustees.

If you have a concern that there has been a breach of this Code of Conduct, or if you are being harassed, discriminated against or bullied, notice that someone else is being harassed, discriminated against or bullied, or have any other concerns, then complaints and/or incidents should be reported by contacting the Society’s Chief Operations Officer by email at [email protected]. Contact details should be provided so that the Society can get in touch should further information be required to conduct an investigation. Such complaints will be dealt with under the Code of Conduct complaints procedure.