INTRODUCTION
Equinox Group is committed to preventing modern slavery and human trafficking in our corporate activities and to ensuring that our supply chains and business relationships are free from such practices. This policy sets out the approach to identifying and addressing the risks of modern slavery in our business and supply chain, in compliance with the Modern Slavery Act 2015.
PURPOSE OF THIS POLICY
This policy aims to:
- Raise awareness of modern slavery issues in our workplace.
- Define the terms and forms of modern slavery.
- Outline our responsibilities in ensuring our workplace is free from modern slavery.
- Set expectations for our suppliers, contractors, and stakeholders regarding modern slavery.
SCOPE
This policy applies to all employees, contractors and suppliers of Equinox Group, including all activities related to exhibitions, events, and any business operations that are directly or indirectly associated with the exhibition industry. This includes employees working in our offices, as well as
DEFINITIONS
Modern slavery encompasses a range of exploitative practices, including:
- Slavery: The status or condition of a person over whom any or all of the powers attaching to the right of ownership are exercised.
- Servitude: A person’s obligation to provide services is imposed by coercion.
- Forced or Compulsory Labor: All work or service which is extracted from any person under the threat of penalty and for which the person has not offered themselves voluntarily.
- Human Trafficking: The recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring, or receipt of persons for the purpose of exploitation.
OUR COMMITMENT
- We are committed to ensuring that modern slavery and human trafficking do not occur in any part of our business or supply chain.
- We take a zero-tolerance approach to any form of modern slavery and will act swiftly if it is detected within our workplace or supply chain.
- We will ensure that our employees, suppliers, and contractors understand the importance of this policy and are aware of the need to report any suspected slavery or trafficking activities.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Management: The senior leadership team is responsible for implementing and enforcing this policy across all areas of the business and ensuring that training is provided to relevant employees.
- Employees: All employees are responsible for reporting any concerns or suspicions regarding modern slavery. Any concerns raised will be treated confidentially and investigated thoroughly.
- Suppliers: Suppliers and contractors must adhere to the principles outlined in this policy and comply with relevant laws and regulations on modern slavery.
RISK ASSESSMENT & DUE DILIGENCE
We will continuously assess the risk of modern slavery within our business and supply chain. This includes:
- Conducting regular reviews of suppliers and contractors.
- Assessing the labour practices of contractors and suppliers that work on all relevant areas of exhibitions.
- Ensuring that all suppliers and contractors comply with the Modern Slavery Act and demonstrate a commitment to the prevention of modern slavery.
REPORTING & WHISTLEBLOWING
Any individual who suspects modern slavery is occurring within our workplace or supply chain should report the issue immediately using our whistleblowing procedure. We will ensure that no one suffers retaliation or victimisation for raising concerns in good faith.
TRAINING & AWARENESS
We will provide regular training for employees, especially those involved in recruitment, supply chain management, and event organisation, on how to spot the signs of modern slavery. Training will be mandatory for all relevant staff and updated regularly.
MONITORING & AUDITING
We will regularly monitor and audit our suppliers, partners, and internal processes to ensure compliance with this policy. This will include periodic checks to ensure that there are no signs of modern slavery in any business operations related to exhibitions and events.
CONSEQUENCES OF BREACHING POLICY
Any employee or supplier found to be in breach of this policy will face appropriate action, which may include disciplinary measures, termination of contracts, or legal proceedings, depending on the severity of the violation.
POLICY REVIEW
This policy will be reviewed annually, and any necessary revisions will be made to ensure it remains effective and in line with current laws and best practices regarding modern slavery.
POLICY APPROVAL
- Approved by (April 10, 2025): Lisa Mills, Health & Safety Advisor
- Next review date: April, 2026