social responsibility
As a family-owned and operated business since 1889, Bernhardt believes in the
principles that govern any functional and supportive family: integrity, pursuit of
excellence, and concern for others. Corporate responsibility is based on these ideals
and guides all of the business, social and environmental aspects of the enterprise.
Bernhardt respects the dignity of employees in the workplace and works to ensure
employees‘ rights to personal security; a safe, clean and healthful workplace; and
freedom from harassment or abuse of any kind.
Improving the quality and safety of the workplace is necessary for productivity and
the motivation and retention of employees. Ethical behavior, respect for individuals
and the promotion of both diversity and inclusivity are part of the culture at
Bernhardt.
We adhere to all applicable laws, regulations and other employment standards and
will not tolerate illegal or unethical behavior from employees or suppliers.
Bernhardt complies with the laws concerning discrimination and equal opportunity
to ensure that individual differences such as age, race, gender, religion and disability
are not factors in hiring, firing, promotion decisions or work assignments. Diversity
in the workforce and with vendors adds value to our operations and to our products.
Harassment and retaliation are not tolerated.

Employees may accept gifts or business entertainment that are reasonable and customary and arise out of the ordinary course of
business. However, such gifts must not be intended to influence business or purchasing decisions and may not exceed a value of $100.
Bernhardt employees should not accept services or products from suppliers or other business partners, particularly if they have
procurement authority. Discounted or free employee\supplier transactions that are not a part of Bernhardt-approved program are
prohibited.
Bernhardt employees must ensure that personal financial interests do not create conflicts with the company and are required to
complete an annual report on any potential conflict of interest. Falsifying this report could lead to dismissal.
Bernhardt rigorously enforces high safety standards. Employees are required to follow all safety rules and to complete safety training
classes in the appropriate area. A process to immediately report accidents and unsafe conditions is in place throughout the company.
Annual safety targets are assigned each facility, with monthly updates and investigation of incidences.
Health and the general welfare of all employees is a primary concern at Bernhardt. Good health practices are promoted through a
corporate wellness program which includes periodic health assessments, company paid annual physical examinations, and free use of
nearby health facilities.
Bernhardt continues to reduce the environmental impact of our business through the Design for the Environment program; annual
reductions of energy, water, solid waste, and greenhouse gases; recycling efforts; and by working with vendors to increase sustainable
practices. A more complete environmental statement is found on our website: http://www.bernhardtdesign.com/environmental.html.
Since the company‘s beginnings in 1889, Bernhardt has been dedicated to helping communities where employees reside. A set
percentage of corporate profits is donated annually to charitable causes. Through the Communities in Schools mentor program, in which
employees leave work to mentor poorly performing students, school dropouts are diminished. The company sponsors education at all
levels including a five-star daycare center, support of the local community college, and scholarships at the nearest university. The
Bernhardt Shoe Fund provides shoes and other clothing to young students. Annually, the Bernhardt Furniture Foundation awards grants
to local programs ranging from a free medical clinic to a summer program for teenagers in an African American church.
The corporate Human Resources staff routinely participates in webinars conducted by legal experts, subscribes to periodicals and
publications addressing the subject, and attends local, regional and national conferences/seminars pertaining to the practice of social
responsibility.
We encourage our partners, suppliers, contractors, and vendors to support these policies, and we place substantial value on working
with others who share our commitment to human rights.