§ 2202.4 - General.

(a) The effectiveness of OSHRC in fulfilling its statutory responsibilities depends upon the extent to which its officials and employees hold the public confidence. Employees are therefore required not only to observe the requirements of Federal laws, policies, orders and regulations governing official conduct, they must also avoid any apparent conflict with these requirements. Each employee shall avoid situations in which his private interests conflict or raise a reasonable question of conflict with his public duties and responsibility. An employee shall avoid any action, whether or not specifically prohibited, which might result in or create the appearance of using public office for private gain, giving preferential treatment to any person, impeding Government efficiency or economy, losing complete independence or impartiality, making a Government decision outside of official channels, or affecting adversely the confidence of the public in the integrity of the Government.

(b) Employees must conduct themselves in such manner that OSHRC's work is effectively accomplished. They must observe the requirements of courtesy, consideration and promptness in dealing with or serving the public and all those interested in OSHRC. Although it is the policy of this agency not to restrict or interfere with the private lives of its employees, each employee is expected to conduct himself at all times so that his actions will not bring discredit upon OSHRC or the Federal service.