New ethical guidelines for procurement
From 1 January 2026, new ethical guidelines for procurement apply at OsloMet.
The guidelines have been approved by the Rector and provide common directions for how OsloMet will work with environmental issues, ethics and social responsibility in purchasing, procurement processes and supplier follow-up.
They apply to all employees who have contact with suppliers, and to everyone who plans, carries out or follows up on procurements.
Find the guidelines
The ethical guidelines for procurement are available on the staff pages.
OsloMet will carry out due diligence assessments
The new guidelines mean that OsloMet will carry out due diligence assessments. This means that we examine whether purchases may lead to negative consequences for people, society or the environment. If there is a risk, we will take measures to prevent and correct it.
In practice, this means that we:
- assess risk early in the procurement process
- set clear requirements for suppliers and subcontractors
- follow up on the requirements throughout the contract period
- assess risk during the contractual relationship
- handle deviations and work for improvements.
Read more about how OsloMet works with environmental issues, ethics and social responsibility in procurement.
What does this mean for you?
For all employees, the guidelines mean that you must:
- use existing framework agreements when they meet the need
- act ethically and professionally in all contact with suppliers
- avoid gifts and benefits that may influence, or be perceived to influence, purchasing decisions
- consider whether you are impartial before participating in a procurement process
- report any matters of concern.
The guidelines are based on international standards, including UN and ILO (International Labour Organization) conventions and OECD guidelines for responsible business conduct.
Training
Employees with specific roles in procurement and supplier follow-up will receive training.
In autumn 2025, a workshop on due diligence assessments was held for contract managers. This work will be followed up with more training and guidance in 2026.
See also: New ethical guidelines for procurement for OsloMet
(This text has been translated with the use of Microsoft Copilot. The text has been quality assured by OsloMet.)
