Executive Order Number Forty-Four Creating Principles For Responsible Industry In Delaware
WHEREAS, a healthy manufacturing sector is a vital part of Delaware’s economy; and
WHEREAS, long-term sustainability of the manufacturing sector requires that manufacturers operate their facilities responsibly, protecting their workers, the local community and the environment; and
WHEREAS, Delaware does not currently have adequate guidance for manufacturing facilities as to what principles of operation are expected; and
WHEREAS, Delaware does not currently have a program for facilities to make public commitments to principles of operation;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, RUTH ANN MINNER, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Delaware do hereby declare and order as follows, this 20th day of May 2003:
1. The Principles for Responsible Industry in Delaware are hereby created for the purpose of providing guidance to the manufacturing facilities in Delaware as to the principles of operation expected of facilities in Delaware.
2. The Principles for Responsible Industry in Delaware are:
I. Managing through Systems Approaches
We are committed to the quality of our products and our operations. We will utilize systems approaches to the management of our facility, with the goals of continuous improvement in both quality and environmental management.
II. Community Involvement
We are committed to being part of the community in which we are located. We will regularly interact with the communities near our facility, both informing and seeking advice from our neighbors. We will notify, in a timely manner, everyone who may be affected by conditions caused by our company that may negatively affect health, safety or the environment.
III. Valuing and Protecting Our Workers
We are committed to the satisfaction, development and well being of our employees. We will enhance the development of and minimize the risks to our employees through use of safe technologies, training, operating procedures and by being prepared for emergencies.
IV. Protecting the Environment and the Community
We are committed to protecting the environment and communities. We will reduce and make continual progress toward eliminating the release of any substance that may cause health or environmental damage. We will reduce, and where possible eliminate wastes and releases through source reduction. All waste will be handled and disposed of safely and responsibly.
V. Conserving Energy
We are committed to reducing our energy consumption. We will conserve energy and improve energy efficiency of our operations and of the products we produce. We will make every effort to use environmentally safe and sustainable energy sources.
3. Adopting the Principles for Responsible Industry in Delaware is voluntary. Facilities that choose to sign on shall make commitments to specific actions implementing the Principles for Responsible Industry in Delaware and shall submit annual reports on their commitments. Commitment shall be made at the facility level, by the facility manager, although commitment from top corporate management is highly encouraged.
4. Benefits may be provided to companies that achieve substantial accomplishments under their commitments and maintain excellent compliance records. Benefits begin following submission and review of the first annual report by the facility. Benefits will be offered on a case-by-case basis depending upon the level of commitment and achievement and the company’s compliance record. Benefits may be rescinded if a company does not maintain an excellent compliance record or fails to make progress under their commitments. Benefits may include such things as fast track and/or flexible permitting, reduced inspection schedules, awards and others.
