2021 COE - Flipbook - Page 4
Duty to Act
All employees have a duty to act. We must promptly
report any suspected violation of this Code, company policies or any applicable laws or regulations.
There are many ways employees can report issues
– even anonymously. We investigate concerns and
take appropriate action. Employees are expected to
cooperate in investigations. The company does not
tolerate retaliation in any form, against anyone who
fulfills their duty to act.
Issues about questionable accounting practices, violations of internal accounting controls or auditing
matters may be reported directly to the Southern
Company Audit Committee.
Conclusion
Ethics means more than just obeying laws and following policies. It means taking personal responsibility to speak out when we see a possible violation
of the Code.
Our Values and Code of Ethics challenge us to inspire
and help others to act ethically. We should make the
most of every opportunity to model the values and
behavior that make this a great place to work.
This Code of Ethics applies to all employees, officers and board members of Southern Company,
its subsidiaries and affiliates.
Annually, all employees are required to certify
they received, read and will abide by the Code of
Ethics, including their duty to act.
No waivers of the provisions of this Code of
Ethics may be granted to board members, officers or employees without authorization from
the appropriate compliance officer or in certain
circumstances the Southern Company Board of
Directors. Waivers will be disclosed as required
by applicable law, regulation or rule.
This Code of Ethics is a statement of policies for
individual and business conduct and does not
create any contractual right to current or future
employment, employee benefits, or other terms
and conditions of employment.
Ethical decision-making
Talking to your manager and asking the right
questions can lead to sound, ethical decisions.
Do I have all the information I need?
• You cannot make good decisions
without the facts. That may mean
asking questions rather than making
assumptions or asking others for help.
Does it violate a law, regulation or
company policy?
• Ethical conduct means playing by the
rules. When in doubt, look up the policy
and seek guidance for any legal
questions.
How will this decision impact the
company’s reputation and my own
reputation?
• How would it look in the newspaper?
Would you be proud to tell your
children or parents? If you’re in doubt, it
may not be the right decision.