’Tis the season in which employees often participate in holiday activities while on the job, including giving and receiving gifts.
Although federal ethics standards apply all year long, the USPS Ethics Office wants employees to remember that complying with these rules is especially important during the holidays.
The Ethics Office has prepared a presentation on Blue to help employees become familiar with the standards of ethical conduct.
The presentation includes the standards that apply to receiving and exchanging gifts between employees and outside sources, including contractors, contract employees and vendors. There are also guidelines for attending holiday parties hosted by organizations outside USPS.
“This special time of year is also our peak season, and dealing with ethics issues can distract us from the important work we do during the holidays,” said Michael J. Elston, associate general counsel and chief ethics and compliance officer. “But if we all follow the rules, we can deliver on our promises to the American people now and in the new year.”
If you have questions about the presentation or specific situations, email the Ethics Office or call its hotline at 202-268-6346.