As employees, we must recognize our responsibility to avoid any conflict between personal interests and those of Triad. A conflict of interest (COI) occurs when an employee’s personal interests interfere, or appear to interfere, with your LANL duties. Employee’s decisions must be governed by sound judgement and objectivity on behalf of Triad, free from the influence of personal interests. Even the appearance of a COI can be harmful to the Laboratory’s reputation. We have a duty to avoid situations that could cause someone to question our judgement or objectivity and an obligation to disclose potential conflicts in every aspect of our jobs no matter how insignificant these potential conflicts may appear.
Summary of Policy
All employees are required to complete a COI Disclosure every two years to disclose any situation that may lead to a conflict of interest. Employees are also required to report any changes in previously disclosed information. If employees find themselves in a personal conflict of interest situation, they are required to notify their manager and/or EA-Ethics and refrain from making or attempting to influence any Laboratory decisions that may materially affect their outside interests until either the conflict is resolved or they are disqualified from participation in the matter.
Common COI situations that should always be disclosed and are addressed in policy include:
- close personal relationships;
- participation in outside employment or other professional or business ventures;
- work relationships with family members or near relatives;
- having a financial interest in a Triad competitor, supplier, contractor, or collaborator; or
- accepting gifts, discounts, favors, or services from a current or potential Triad customer, competitor, supplier, or collaborator when that benefit is not equally available to all Triad employees.
Do the Right Thing
- Disclose and resolve any existing situations that potentially create a conflict of interest or the appearance of a conflict.
- Do not allow your personal relationships with contractors and suppliers to create a situation where someone may perceive such relationship inappropriately influenced business decisions.
- Avoid situations where personal, social, financial, near relatives, or political activities interfere with or could be perceived as potentially interfering with your objectivity and/or duty to Triad.
Common Questions
Yes, this is a potential conflict. Disclose it to your manager immediately, update your conflict of interest disclosure, and remove yourself from the decision-making process.
You should consult with your manger and/or EA-Ethics to obtain assistance in determining whether a particular circumstance constitutes, or creates the perception of, a conflict of interest.
Yes, this is a close personal relationship that could potentially cause a personal conflict of interest. You should report the relationship to your manager and HR Generalist and recuse yourself from the hiring committee.