business_conduct_compliance_guide

BUSINESS CONDUCT AND COMPLIANCE GUIDE

As amended and restated March 28, 2006

February 2005

Dear BD Colleagues:

Our work environment is constantly changing. Companies are working diligently to keep up with the new laws, regulations and industry codes with which they are expected to comply.

BD has always held itself to the highest standards of business conduct. Our commitment extends beyond compliance with the law to include a firm belief that the best way to

be a great company and to deliver value to our customers, associates, shareholders and communities is to be fair, honest and ethical in our business practices and personal behavior at work.

The BD Core Values provide our basic direction: “We do what is right.” This Guide was designed to define and clarify BD’s expectations for legal and ethical behavior on the part of every associate—an obligation that is in fact a condition of con-tinued employment. The Guide provides you information and guidance about situations that may challenge us in our business dealings.

If you have any questions about a business conduct or compliance issue or any aspect of the Guide is unclear, you may seek assistance in a number of ways:

• First and foremost, you should feel comfortable discussing your concerns with your supervisor.

• If for any reason you do not wish to do so, you may contact Glen Barbi, the Director of Business Ethics and Conduct, at 201.847.6974.

• You can also send E-mail by typing Ethics Office in Lotus Notes or [email protected]

• You may contact BD’s confidential ETHICS HELPLINE described in the Guide (In North America 1-800-821-5452). Outside the US, associates should use AT&T Direct to reach AT&T and then dial the number above. Translation services are available.

• If you wish to report complaints or concerns regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters, you may do so by calling the BD ETHICS HELPLINE as mentioned above or send your complaint or concern by mail to: Director of Business Ethics and Conduct, 1 Becton Drive, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417,

Please take time to read this material carefully and completely. Ethical and legal behavior is everyone’s job at BD. As our Core Values also state: “We take personal responsibility.” Since 1897, BD has built a reputation for quality, integrity and goodwill that is the cornerstone of our success. Maintaining this most valuable asset is a matter of the greatest importance to our continued progress, and a responsibility we all share.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to living the BD Core Values.

Sincerely,

Edward J. LudwigChairman, President and Chief Executive Officer

Page 1 of 24 As amended and restated March 28, 2006

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction.............................................................................................. 3• Scope and Application of the Guide..................................................................................... 4• Our Basic Policy: “We Do What is Right”........................................................................... 4• A Condition of Employment............................................................................................... 4• Personal Responsibility for Legal Compliance..................................................................... 4• A Living Document............................................................................................................... 4

BD Core Values ........................................................................................ 5• We Treat Each Other with Respect...................................................................................... 5• We Do What is Right ........................................................................................................... 5• We Always Seek to Improve................................................................................................ 5• We Accept Personal Responsibility..................................................................................... 5

Business Conduct Policies ......................................................................... 5• Workplace Issues.................................................................................................................6

• Diversity..........................................................................................................................6• Equal Employment Opportunity ....................................................................................6• Harassment ......................................................................................................................6• Workplace Violence .........................................................................................................7• Acceptable Use of Information Technologies..................................................................7

• Authorized Usage ......................................................................................................7• Access to Computer Files..........................................................................................7• Confidentiality...........................................................................................................7• Prohibited Activities.............................................................................................. 7-8• Public Representation................................................................................................8• Security and Incident Reporting ................................................................................8

• Company Access/Privacy and Associate and Customer Information ..............................8

• Fair Dealing.........................................................................................................................8

• Conflicts of Interest ........................................................................................................ 8-9• Investments and Financial Interests........................................................................... 9-10• Insider Trading...............................................................................................................10• Business Relationships with Family Members or Relatives.........................................10• Outside Employment.....................................................................................................11• Participation in Civic, Political and Volunteer Activities ..............................................11• Outside Affiliations .......................................................................................................11• Corporate Opportunities...............................................................................................11


• Business Hospitality and Customer/Supplier Relations..............................................11• Business Courtesies, Discounts, Rebates, Credits and Allowances........................ 11-12• Purchasing Policies and Customer/Supplier Relations...................................................13• Charitable Contributions................................................................................................13

• Dealing with Governments and Government Officials................................................13• Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.......................................................................................14• Payments or Reimbursements to Government Officials ...............................................14• Accuracy of Books and Records....................................................................................15• Actions of Agents and Representatives.........................................................................15• Political Contributions ..................................................................................................15• Lobbying Activities .......................................................................................................15• Taxes, Tariffs and Duties...............................................................................................16

• Competitor Relations........................................................................................................16• Antitrust and Competition Laws...................................................................................16• Competitive Information ...............................................................................................16

• International Trade Law...................................................................................................17• Economic Sanctions and Export Control ................................................................. 16-17• Anti-Boycott .................................................................................................................17• Diversion........................................................................................................................17

• Protection and Proper Use of Company Assets..............................................................18

• Intellectual Property and Confidential Information .............................................. 18-19

• Quality and Regulation of Medical Devices ..................................................................19

• Health, Safety and Environment.....................................................................................20

• Accuracy of Financial and Other Information......................................................... 20-21

Voicing Questions and Concerns ............................................................... 21• Office of Ethics and Business Practices and BD Ethics Helpline....................................... 22• Equal Application of this Guide......................................................................................... 22• No Retaliation..................................................................................................................... 22• Ethics and Policy Information on BD Intranet................................................................... 22

Waivers and Amendments ........................................................................ 23Staying Informed and Measuring Progress ................................................. 23• Training............................................................................................................................... 23• Periodic Audits and Certifications ..................................................................................... 23


INTRODUCTIONBD has always sought professional, competent people who will make the right decisions indifficult situations. How we do business, and how we treat others, will define BD to the rest ofthe world. It is important that BD be known for the quality of its products, the integrity of itspeople, and its high standards of business conduct. This matters greatly to:

• patients who will be treated with the help of our products,• customers we service and the suppliers we do business with,• our fellow associates worldwide,• shareholders who have invested their money with us, and• communities where we live and work.

We are a global company, and the world grows more complex every day. It is not always easy todecide what is “right.” Laws and business practices vary in different countries. The BusinessConduct and Compliance Guide explains BD’s basic expectations for professional and personalbehavior that each and every one of us around the world should follow. No document like thiscould possibly describe every problem or dilemma you may encounter in your work. But the BDCore Values, this Guide, your management and the resources of staff experts such as HumanResources, Law, Regulatory Affairs and the Ethics Office should be your compass to help yousteer the right course.

Because these issues are important, we have created the Office of Ethics and Business Practices asa specific resource for you to contact to raise concerns or ask advice. The Ethics Office maintainsa page on the BD Intranet to provide more detailed information and references on particular areas.To further assist you, BD has also set up the ETHICS HELPLINE (see "Voicing Questions andConcerns" Section ).


SCOPE AND APPLICATION OF THE GUIDEThis Guide applies to all directors, officers and employees of BD.

OUR BASIC POLICY: “WE DO WHAT IS RIGHT”It is BD’s policy to comply with all laws, rules and regulations pertaining to its businesses aroundthe world and beyond this to act in an honest and ethical manner at all times. You should never“assume” or “read between the lines” that BD ever wants you to violate a law or regulation, or toact unethically in your work even if asked or ordered to do so by your supervisor.

A CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENTAll directors, officers and employees are responsible for complying with this Guide. Theappropriate members of management shall determine the actions to be taken in the event ofviolations of this Guide. In the event of a violation by any director or executive officer, the Boardof Directors shall make such determination. Respecting and following the principles of this Guideis a condition of your employment with BD. You will never advance your career with BD byviolating these principles – but you could end it. Any associate who fails to meet the standards ofbusiness conduct described in this Guide, and any manager or supervisor who attempts to punishan associate for raising questions or trying to follow the principles of this Guide, will be subject todiscipline. Such discipline shall be reasonably designed to deter wrongdoing and to promotecompliance with this Guide, and may include without limitation, corrective actions up to, andincluding, termination of the individual’s employment.

PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR LEGAL COMPLIANCEEthical behavior means more than complying with the law - but it starts there. Each of us mustlearn the basic legal and regulatory requirements that pertain to our jobs, because compliance withlaws and regulations is the responsibility of each and every BD associate and director. Noemployee, officer or director of BD shall commit an illegal or unethical act, or instruct others to doso, for any reason.

A LIVING DOCUMENTIf there is anything in the Guide you do not understand, or you think any important subjects werenot discussed, please bring it to the Company’s attention in a way most comfortable for you. Thedifferent ways you can do so are explained in the section “Voicing Questions and Concerns.” ThisGuide and explanatory material will be updated from time to time to stay current withdevelopments both inside and outside BD. We want it to truly reflect your comments and values.


BDCore Purpose:

Helping all people live healthy lives

Core ValuesWe treat each other with respectWe act with respect towards each other and towards those with whom we interact. We disagreeopenly and honestly, and we deal with our differences professionally. Once we have made adecision we act together in harmony.

We do what is rightWe are committed to the highest standards of excellence in everything that we do: on behalf of ourcustomers, our shareholders, our communities and ourselves. We are proud to work for a healthcare company whose products and services make a difference in people’s lives. We derive ourgreatest sense of accomplishment from doing what is right – not what is expedient. We are reliable,honest, and trustworthy in all our dealings. We keep our promises and if we make a mistake weput it right.

We always seek to improveSuperior quality is the “ground floor” of our organization. Upon it we continually strive toimprove by developing, manufacturing and supplying products and services superior to ourcompetitors’ and better than the previous one. We study our progress and learn from others andourselves how to do things more effectively and efficiently. Our commitment to quality goesbeyond how well we serve our customers to include the way we deal with all people. How we dothings is as important to us as what we do.

We accept personal responsibilityWe consider individual involvement and accountability to be both a right and a privilege andaccept personal responsibility for everything that we do. We treat the company's reputation asour own and try to make wise use of our time and the company's resources. We expect access tothe tools and information necessary to participate in any decisions that will reflect on ourcollective or individual reputations.


WORKPLACE ISSUES

DiversityAt BD, we embrace the spectrum of people that make up our Company and the world we serveas we help all people live healthy lives. We have a culture of inclusion that welcomes people ofdifferent ethnicity, gender, religion, age, personal style, sexual orientation, appearance and tenure,as well as people with diverse opinions, perspectives, lifestyles, ideas, thinking and being. As BDstrives to become a great company, we respect each individual as we celebrate the richness of ourdiversity. Always seeking to improve, BD becomes more innovative as different ideas andthinking are exchanged. Striving toward our common goal, our differences form the basis for ourstrength.

Equal Employment OpportunityIt is the policy of BD to provide equal opportunity to all applicants and associates without regardto their race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, marital status, familial status,affectional or sexual orientation, disability, military eligibility or veteran status. Mistreatment ofor discrimination against a fellow associate is unacceptable. We also expect all vendors and guestsvisiting our facilities to behave appropriately. If you have any questions or concerns about yourjob or workplace, please consult your Human Resources professional.

HarassmentIt is the policy of BD to maintain a workplace free of harassment. We do not tolerate harassmentof an individual because of that person’s race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin,ancestry, marital status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, disability, militaryeligibility or veteran status. Harassment by co-workers, customers, vendors, agents or any otherthird parties is forbidden. Harassment as defined above includes, but is not limited to: (1) verbalharassment, such as epithets, derogatory comments or slurs, based on the categories identifiedabove; (2) visual forms or harassment, such as derogatory or explicit pictures, cartoons ordrawings, based on the categories identified above (3) physical harassment, such as unwantedtouching or other offensive, unwanted physical contact, impeding or blocking movement, or anyphysical interference with normal work or movement; and (4) sexual harassment, such asunwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, physical or visualconduct based on sex, as described in BD’s Policy on Harassment. Any associate who engages inany form of harassment is subject to discipline, up to and including termination of employment.

Any associate who believes that he/she has been subjected to harassment, or has seen someoneelse harassed, must report it immediately to his/her supervisor or the local Human ResourcesDepartment. Associates with concerns may also call the BD Ethics HELPLINE at 1-800-821-5452. All reports of harassment will be investigated and, where appropriate, corrective action willbe taken to end such harassing conduct and prevent it from recurring. Please be assured that BDforbids retaliation against anyone that reports harassment in good faith or cooperates in aninvestigation.


Workplace ViolenceBD is committed to maintaining a work environment free from violence, threats of violence,harassment, intimidation and other disruptive behavior.

Violence, threats of violence, harassment, intimidation and other disruptive behavior in ourworkplace are prohibited. All reports of incidents will be taken seriously and will be dealt withpromptly and appropriately. Such behavior can include oral or written statements, gestures orexpressions that communicate a direct or indirect threat of harm. Individuals who commit suchacts may be removed from the premises and may be subject to disciplinary action (up to andincluding termination), criminal penalties or both. Retaliation against persons who reportincidents will not be tolerated.

We need your cooperation to maintain a safe working environment. Do not ignore violent,threatening, harassing, intimidating or other disruptive behavior. If you observe or experiencesuch behavior by anyone on BD premises or at a BD function, whether or not he or she is aBD associate, report it immediately to a supervisor, manager, Human Resourcesprofessional or Security (where available). Employees who receive such reports should seekadvice from their local HR professionals and Security, as appropriate.

Acceptable Use of Information TechnologiesIn accordance with its relevant IT Acceptable Use policies, BD encourages the responsible use ofBD Information Technologies (e.g., computers, networks, e-mail, Internet) as a valuable andeffective business tool. The following guidelines apply in the use of these technologies.

Authorized Usage: BD Information Technologies are to be used only for business activities.However, limited personal use of BD Information Technologies is allowed provided that it doesnot interfere with user productivity or job requirements, does not interfere with any businessactivity, and does not consume an unreasonable amount of resources. Any such personal usemust comply with all applicable laws and BD policies.

Access to Computer Files: BD Information Technologies are the property of BD. As such, BDreserves the right, consistent with applicable laws, to monitor the use of BD computer systemsand any other electronic communication systems and services.

Confidentiality: Due care should be taken with respect to the transmission of confidential and/orprivileged information. Users have a duty to maintain the confidentiality of privileged orconfidential communications and information. At no time should this information be posted tothe Internet. When using BD Information Technologies, users must maintain the confidentialityof “material, non-public information” in accordance with the Company’s Policy Statement onInsider Trading and Securities Transactions.

Prohibited Activities: Prohibited use of BD Information Technologies may include, but is notlimited to: harassment; theft; attempting unauthorized access to data or attempting to breach any


security measures on any electronic communication system internal or external to BD; attemptingto intercept any electronic communication transmissions without prior approval; and anyviolations of law. In addition, BD’s IT Acceptable Use Policy prohibits BD associates fromtransmitting, copying or storing profane, obscene, pornographic or sexually explicit material ormaterial which is or could be deemed to be degrading, derogatory or offensive.

Public Representations: No media advertisement, Internet home page, electronic bulletin boardposting, e-mail, or any other public representation about BD may be issued unless it has first beenapproved by the applicable department head in the Intellectual Property, Law, Marketing,Medical, Customer Service, Investor Relations and/or Public Relations Departments.

Security and Incident Reporting: Users must promptly report all information security alerts,warnings, suspected vulnerabilities, and the like to Corporate Information Security.

Company Access/ Privacy of Associate and Customer InformationBD is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of personal information about associates andpersonal or other information about customers, former customers and product users. We restrictaccess to this information as appropriate and use it only as necessary for legitimate businesspurposes, such as the administration of human resources programs or to fulfill a transactionrequested by a customer. Our collection, maintenance and use of such information will comply inall respects with the laws of the jurisdictions where we operate.

FAIR DEALING

You should endeavor to deal fairly with customers, suppliers, competitors, the public and oneanother at all times and in accordance with ethical business practices. No one should take unfairadvantage of anyone through manipulation, concealment, abuse of privileged information,misrepresentation of material facts or any other unfair dealing practice. No payment in any formshould be made directly or indirectly to or for anyone for the purpose of obtaining or retainingbusiness or obtaining any other favorable action. You or BD may be subject to disciplinary actionup to and including termination, as well as potential civil or criminal liability for violation of thispolicy.

CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

All of us need to avoid conflicts of interest. This means that we should not place ourselves insituations that might force us to choose between our own personal, business or financial interestand the interests of BD.

Here are some basic principles to guide your conduct in this area:


We always act in the best interests of BD.

We never allow personal financial interests to compromise, or appear to compromise, ourloyalty and dedication to the best interests of BD.

We disclose potential conflicts, seek advice and err on the side of caution.

At times, potential conflicts of interest or the appearance of a conflict of interest may arisedespite your best efforts. For example, your spouse may work for a competitor, or a relative maytake a job with one of BD’s suppliers. Such situations may not be a problem, provided that youdisclose any such potential conflict of interest, so that BD has the information to decide whetheran actual or potential conflict exists, and how to address it.

In addition, the CEO, and each of the executive officers and senior financial officers shall discloseto the General Counsel any transaction or relationship involving any of them, whether directlyor indirectly (i.e., through family relationships), that reasonably could be expected to give riseto such a conflict or to the appearance of such a conflict, and the General Counsel shall work toresolve such conflict in consultation with the CEO and CFO (provided such persons are notinvolved in the transaction or relationship). If such conflict cannot be resolved satisfactorily, thematter shall be referred to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors for resolution, unlessthe conflict involves a management director, in which case it shall be referred to the CorporateGovernance and Nominating Committee of the Board.

In the event of any such conflict of interest (or appearance of conflict of interest) involving theGeneral Counsel, the General Counsel shall disclose such conflict to each of the CEO and CFO(provided such person is not also involved in the transaction or relationship). If the CEO andCFO are unable to resolve such conflict satisfactorily, the matter shall be referred to the AuditCommittee for resolution. If the CEO and CFO also are involved in the transaction orrelationship, the General Counsel shall refer the matter directly to the Audit Committee.

In the event of any such conflict of interest (or appearance of conflict of interest) involving anon-management director, such director shall refer the matter directly to the CorporateGovernance and Nominating Committee and to the Chairman.

Investments and Financial InterestsYou are permitted to invest in BD securities. You may also invest or have other financial interestsin other business organizations (including public or privately held companies or other forms oforganization), with certain restrictions.

As a general rule, neither you nor a member of your immediate family may invest or have anyother financial interest in any organization that does, or is likely to• compete with or buy from BD, or distribute our products;• supply products or services to BD; or• be a joint venture or other business partner.


However, you may invest in such an organization in the following cases:1. You invest through a mutual fund or similar vehicle, and you do not influence specific investment

decisions.- OR -2. Your investment is modest and routine (i.e. less than 1% of the outstanding securities; you purchase your

interest in an arms length commercial transaction; and you do not participate in or influence its businessrelationship with BD or have inside knowledge of its activities or relationship with BD).

- OR -3. Appropriate company management, in advance, decides this financial interest does not impair, or appear toimpair, your loyalty and dedication to the best interests of BD.

You may not act as a broker, finder, or intermediary for a third party in any transaction with BD.

Insider TradingYou may not buy or sell BD securities based on material information about BD not available tothe general public or buy or sell securities of any other company based on non-public informationknown to you because of your work at BD. In addition, you may not provide such "inside"information to anyone else so that they can profit from it. This includes transfers into or out ofthe BD stock funds in the SIP program.

Such "inside" information could include, for example, knowledge about:

- unreleased financial results or projections;- confidential business plans or results;- upcoming business transactions, acquisitions or divestitures;- pending new products or regulatory approvals/disapprovals; or- anticipated publicity, favorable or unfavorable.

Violation of these legal requirements could subject you to refund of profits, additional largemonetary penalties, and even criminal liability, including imprisonment. BD has establishedspecific “blackout periods” when most transactions related to purchase or sale of BD securities orexercise of BD stock options are prohibited, and all associates are expected to comply. If youneed advice in this area, you should consult the Office of the Corporate Secretary.

A more detailed discussion of these restrictions is contained in the BD Policy on Insider Tradingand Securities Transactions (Revised May 25, 2004) , which is available on the BD intranet site(http://bdone.bdx.com/corpcounsel/).

Business Relationships with Family Members or RelativesYour family members or relatives may work for, or have business relationships with, BD.

However you should avoid certain situations and relationships:• Supervising, influencing, hiring, or being involved in the promotion, compensation, work assignments or

performance evaluation of a family member or relative who works for BD.• You must disclose and refer to your supervisor any decision within your area of responsibility that affects BD’s

business relationship with an organization that employs a family member or relative.• You should take special precaution to avoid the disclosure of confidential information to or receipt of

confidential information from a family member or relative.• If there is a demonstrated business need, associates should seek approval from local Human Resources and

Management.


Outside EmploymentYou may have outside employment, or maintain your own business. However:• You may not work as an owner, employee or consultant for any organization that does, or is likely to, compete

with or buy from BD, distribute our products, or be a business or joint venture partner; nor any organization thatsells to BD, or is likely to.

• Your outside work should not keep you from devoting the required time and effort to your BD responsibilities,and should be disclosed to your manager in advance.

• You may not use any BD facilities, personnel, supplies or services to support outside work.

Participation in Civic, Political and Volunteer ActivitiesYou may participate in civic, political and volunteer activities of your choosing, provided you dothis on your own time and use your own resources, and such activities do not create an actual orpotential conflict with your responsibilities as a BD associate.

Outside AffiliationsYou may serve as a director, trustee or in a similar capacity for outside organizations, includingfor-profit and not-for-profit organizations and trade or professional associations, with priorapproval from appropriate management.

Corporate OpportunitiesYou are prohibited from taking for yourself, or for any entity with which you have an affiliation,business opportunities that arise through the use of corporate property, information or position.You may not use corporate property, information or position for personal gain, and you may notcompete with BD. Competing with BD may involve engaging in the same line of business as BD,or any situation where you take away from BD opportunities for sales or purchases of products,services or interests.

BUSINESS HOSPITALITY ANDCUSTOMER/SUPPLIER RELATIONS

Business Courtesies

BD does not want business obtained through the improper use of business courtesies. You shouldnot entertain lavishly or give expensive gifts to suppliers, customers or others with whom you dobusiness, and they should not expect such treatment from you. Neither should you receive lavishentertainment or expensive gifts from suppliers, customers or others with whom you do business.We never pay or accept bribes or kickbacks, or create the impression or suspicion that we mayhave done so.

Many countries in which BD does business have special laws, regulations, and industry codesthat govern the interactions of medical technology companies and healthcare professionals. Forexample, in the U.S., BD must comply with laws and regulations that make it illegal to provideinappropriate inducements to recipients who purchase or recommend BD products that are paidfor in whole or in part under a government healthcare program. In the U.S., BD has adopted theAdvaMed Code of Ethics (http://www.advamed.org/publicdocs/code_of_ethics.pdf ) on


Interactions with Health Care Professionals effective as of January 1, 2004.

In countries other than the U.S., local laws, regulations, and industry codes may differ. Local BDmanagement is therefore responsible for establishing local guidelines that address meals,entertainment, transportation and lodging, and gifts in accordance with local laws, regulations andindustry codes. Nonetheless, the following fundamental rules apply to our interactionswith all of our customers and suppliers in all countries:

You should politely refuse any offer of an inappropriate gift, or politely return any inappropriategift you receive, with an explanation of the Company policy. If a return of the gift isunacceptable under local custom, you should forward the gift to BD for disposition to charity,and advise the giver that you have done so with an explanation of the Company policy.

We buy and sell based solely upon quality, performance and cost.

We abide by legal and policy restrictions on business courtesies that apply to us as well asto the individuals and organizations with whom we deal.

Gifts should never be intended to influence or appear to influence specific businessdecisions.

Gifts of cash or equivalent may never be given or accepted. You should never accept animproper gift or personal benefit as a result of your position at BD.

To the extent permitted by local guidelines, all business courtesies must be reasonableand customary in accordance with local customs. Entertainment of a sexual or prurientnature is never appropriate.

Discounts, Rebates, Credits and AllowancesDiscounts, rebates, credits and allowances can be legitimate offers or payments to customersprovided that:• they are lawful, reasonable, competitively justified, documented, and made to the original entityshown on the agreement or invoice;• they are made only in the country of the entity's place of business; and• no payments are made to individual officers, employees, or agents of the entity.These precautions are necessary to ensure compliance with various currency exchange controlsand tax regulations, among others. Moreover, in the U.S., some discounts and rebates must bereported, and others may be illegal, under the Medicare "Safe Harbor" regulations, which wereenacted to deter fraud against government healthcare reimbursement. You should not make anyexception to these precautions unless you have obtained the prior approval of the LawGroup.


Purchasing Policies and Supplier RelationsWe deal with many suppliers. Our policy is to select suppliers fairly on the basis of price,quality, and performance or suitability of their product or service for the overall benefit of BD.This means that you should:• always follow the applicable purchasing policies; this includes policies that may affect our

individual decisions in areas such as travel, office and computer equipment purchases, etc;• reject side agreements (such as an agreement to keep business away from another supplier); and• never accept a bribe or kickback.

Doing business solely on the merits will help us maintain the quality of our relationships—andour products.

Charitable ContributionsContributions of funds or product for charitable purposes are allowed. Examples of charitablepurposes are to support independent research, indigent care, education, and sponsorship of eventsintended to raise funds for charitable purposes. Contributions may not be made to induce acustomer to buy BD products. All contributions must be appropriately documented and complywith the BD Charitable Contributions Policy(http://bdone.bdx.com/PolicyManual/Policies/Charitable_Contributions.pdf) as well as applicablelocal laws, regulations and industry codes.

Please consult the Law Group for guidance in these areas.

DEALING WITH GOVERNMENTS AND OFFICIALS

Dealing with government officials is not the same as dealing with private parties. This is truewhether the government is acting as a customer, a supplier, or a regulator. For instance, in theU.S., the U.S. federal government requires detailed pricing disclosure data when competing forcertain types of contracts—something commercial customers do not expect from us. Failure tokeep this information current, accurate and complete can subject BD, and individuals, to severepenalties. Please ensure you contact BD Government Sales or the Law Group before entering intoany U.S. federal government contract.

Business courtesies or entertainment that might be appropriate when you are dealing with privateparties, like paying for lunch or dinner, are not appropriate or legal when you are dealing withgovernment (local, state, federal, or even international) officials. And, needless to say, gifts andcourtesies not appropriate for private parties are certainly not appropriate for governmentofficials either. In countries other than the U.S., local laws regulations and industry codes maydiffer. Local BD management is therefore responsible for establishing local guidelines that addressmeals, entertainment, transportation and lodging and gifts in accordance with local laws,regulations and industry codes.


We do not, either directly or through intermediaries, offer money, favors or employmentopportunities or anything else of value to a government official to obtain proprietary ornon-releasable competitive information, or to influence or reward an official decision.

Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA)A U.S. law, the FCPA, makes it illegal for a U.S. company or any of its worldwide subsidiaries oraffiliates to pay money or make some other form of bribe to any government official worldwide inorder to get, or keep, business. This is true whether the payment is made directly by an associateor through someone not employed by BD. The FCPA also makes it illegal to set up situationswhere there is deliberate ignorance of illegal payments, for example, giving money to a third partyor intermediary and instructing them not to tell you where the money will go. Such payments arealso usually illegal under the laws of the country where the bribe is paid or accepted.

Payments or Reimbursements to Government OfficialsYou may never offer money, favors or anything else of value to a government official in order toinfluence or reward an official decision, either directly or through an intermediary. When workingwith U.S. federal government procurements, regulations require that employees who participate inthe preparation or submission of an offer must certify that they do not and will not a) discuss oroffer future employment to a U.S. federal government procurement official; b) offer, give, orpromise anything of value to a procurement official, and c) request or obtain from the governmentproprietary competitive information, or the government’s own source selection information, or todisclose such information to any unauthorized person.

If you are solicited for money, favors or anything else of value by or on behalf of a governmentofficial in order to influence or reward an official decision, either directly or through anintermediary, you must report the incident immediately to senior country management.• The term "government official" is applied very broadly under U.S. law and most local laws that

apply to public corruption. Basically, it includes any government employee or representative,elected official or candidate, or employee of a state-owned business, who is in a position toinfluence a business or regulatory decision affecting BD or any affiliated individual ororganization.

You may make payments or reimbursements to non-U.S. government officials for meals,entertainment, transportation or lodging expenses in connection with product promotion orcontract performance, but only if they are allowed under U.S. and local law and are within thelimits of local policy for dealings with private, commercial customers. U.S. federal governmentofficials are covered under the Procurement Integrity Act and coordination with the local FederalEthics Office is required for reimbursements. Such payments and reimbursements must bepreapproved by BD Law Group and the Ethics Office at the federal facility or the agencyinvolved, if any.

• While you may, under certain limited circumstances, comply with demands by governmentofficials for "facilitating payments" in connection with the performance of routine official acts(for example, processing permit applications; issuing driver's licenses, visas, passports or customsclearances), you are discouraged from doing so.


You may make such “facilitating payments” only if:1. The payment is approved in advance by senior country management, in consultation with the Law Group, as

necessary to protect the Company’s interests and permissible under applicable law;2. This is a typical type and amount of payment under local custom and practice; and 3. The transaction is accurately reported in company records.

Accuracy of Books and RecordsUnder the FCPA, BD must keep accurate financial books and records. This means that even ifsmall payments must be made, all financial entries should reflect the true nature, amount, andpurpose of all monies spent. It also means that you should never establish any kind of "slushfund," or any other pool of monies not shown on BD’s books.

Actions of Agents and RepresentativesYou should be diligent to avoid improper payments to government officials or agents by agents orrepresentatives on behalf of BD.

• You should review the background and qualifications of agents and representatives to sell and distribute BDproducts. This review should include the reputation of the organization and its principals for ethical businesspractices and the presence of any linkages (financial, family or other) to government officials.

• You should require agents and representatives by written contract to follow all applicable legal requirements andcompany policies, including our standards for ethical business conduct, in their dealings on behalf of BD.

• Senior country management should investigate any unusual transactions or arrangements such as extraordinarycommission levels, requests for payment in different currencies or third-country locations, or loosely defined anddocumented categories of expense reimbursement, to assure the business purpose is legitimate and controls toprevent improper payments are adequate.

Political ContributionsBD supports each associate’s individual right to participate in the political process. Each BDassociate may make whatever personal contribution of time or money they wish to the politicalprocess so long as it does not interfere with their responsibilities at BD. In the U.S., eligible BDassociates may also, but are not required to, contribute to the BD Political Action Committee(BDPAC), which makes contributions to candidates for federal office who share our policyinterests. However, BD may not directly or indirectly contribute Company funds or assets for orto any political committee, organization, candidate or campaign unless such a contribution isconsistent with Company Policies and is permitted by applicable law in the jurisdiction inquestion. Each such contribution must be approved by the Chief Executive Officer or ChiefFinancial Officer, and for contributions outside the U.S., also by the president or chief financialofficer of the country in question. In every such instance, clearance from the Law Group also isrequired.

Lobbying ActivitiesWe conduct legitimate lobbying and information activities to promote legislation, regulations andgovernment policy favorable to our interests, both directly and through industry associations. Wereport all such lobbying and informational activities to the appropriate authorities.


Taxes, Tariffs and DutiesWe respect and comply with the laws of the various countries where we operate with regard totaxation of company activities and tariffs and other duties or charges relating to import and exportactivities. We take personal responsibility for reporting and payment of any proper taxes relatedto our BD employment and income.

COMPETITOR RELATIONS

Competition is the heart of business. BD competes by making superior products, selling them at afair price, and providing value to our customers. As described in BD’s Policy on Antitrust andCompetition Law Compliance (http://bdone.bdx.com/PolicyManual/Policies/Antitrust.pdf) it isBD’s policy to comply fully with the antitrust and competition laws of the U.S. and every state,country, and jurisdiction whose laws apply to our business.

Antitrust and Competition LawsThroughout the world, BD’s business efforts must comply with antitrust and competition laws ofvarious countries and jurisdictions. These laws are designed to ensure that businesses can competefairly. They prohibit agreements among competitors that restrain trade or reduce competition,such as agreements to:• fix, stabilize, or control prices;• limit output levels or the sale of products;• allocate customers or geographic territories; or• boycott certain suppliers or customers.

Most antitrust and competition laws also prohibit the use of a dominant market position to drivea competitor out of business, independent of natural market forces. Antitrust and competitionlaws are not exactly the same around the world. That is why you should participate in theperiodic training that will be offered to those associates for whom such training is appropriate. Ifyou are not sure whether a business action you intend to take raises antitrust issues, you shouldfirst consult the Law Group for guidance.

Competitive InformationAn important part of competition is knowing what your competitor is doing. While it isimportant to remain informed regarding the competitors and the businesses in our industry, youshould always observe the following principles in the event you do so:

• No illegal methods (such as trespass or theft) should ever be used.• No information considered to be or identified as confidential should ever be accepted without

the knowledge of the party who owns it and without the Company’s specific authorization.• No deceptive or dishonest methods should ever be used.• Former employees of competitors should not be hired in order to get access to their

proprietary knowledge.

You should consult the Law Group for additional guidance in this area.


INTERNATIONAL TRADE LAW

It is the policy of BD that all entities and employees of the BD corporate family must complyfully with all applicable laws, including those concerning U.S. economic sanctions and exportcontrol, anti-boycott, and the diversion of products. BD does business all over the world, and thelaws of one country or jurisdiction sometimes apply to transactions or activities that occurelsewhere. Failure to comply with these laws can subject BD and its employees to civil andcriminal penalties, including suspension or denial of export privileges.

The following laws regulate transactions and activities both in the U.S. and elsewhere, and thereforegovern the conduct of BD associates and representatives both within and outside the U.S.:

(1) Economic Sanctions and Export Control Laws - The U.S. and other countries have adoptedeconomic sanctions laws that restrict activities and transactions with, in or involvingcertain specified sanctioned countries, their nationals, and other designated entities andindividuals. The restrictions on the sale and/or shipment of products, as well as relatedactivities, often apply regardless of the type of products being sold or shipped, or thelocation from which the sale or shipment originates. Complementing the economicsanctions laws, the U.S. and other countries have adopted export control laws that regulatethe export and re-export of goods, software and technology to specified destinations andend-users and for specified purposes and applications. These laws apply to intra-company transfers as well as to dealings with third parties. Export control laws mayprohibit a particular export or re-export of goods, software or technology. In addition,governmental authorization might be required before selling or shipping BD products (aswell as supporting data and know-how) to specified destinations or end-users on variousgovernment lists, particularly if the products contain sophisticated technology.

(2) Anti-boycott Laws - A “boycott” occurs when one person, group or country refuses to dobusiness with certain other people or countries. The U.S. export control laws contain anti-boycott provisions generally prohibiting U.S. persons and certain of their non-U.S.affiliates from cooperating in boycotts that the U.S. does not support, such as the Arabboycott of Israel. The scope of these provisions is broad and complex, prohibiting forexample: (i) agreeing not to do business with certain parties; (ii) providing informationabout business relations with certain parties; and (iii) discriminating against, or providinginformation about, individuals or companies based on race, religion, gender, national originor nationality. In addition, under certain circumstances even the receipt of a request tocooperate in a boycott must be reported to the U.S. Government.

(3) Diversion - In addition to requiring compliance with U.S. and other laws regulatinginternational business transactions, the BD trade compliance policy prohibits diversion ofBD products, which occurs when a customer does not honor its representationsconcerning the customer trade channel, country, area, region, or use for which thepurchased goods will be used or resold (for example, representing that products will besold in the Middle East but selling them instead in the U.S.). Diversion hampersregulatory compliance by interfering with our ability to track our products and to complywith export and other legal requirements.


BD has adopted internal procedures for complying with the aforementioned international tradelaws. These laws carry severe penalties for BD, and possibly for the individuals involved in anyviolation. Please contact the Law Group for guidance any time you: (1) are considering engagingin a transaction that may be subject to U.S. economic sanctions and export control laws; (2) areasked to honor a boycott; or (3) become aware of a diversion of BD products.

PROTECTION AND PROPER USE OF COMPANY ASSETS

Protecting BD assets against loss, theft or other misuse is the responsibility of everyemployee, officer and director. Loss, theft and misuse of BD assets directly impact ourprofitability. Any such loss, misuse or suspected theft should be reported to amanager/supervisor or the Law Group.

The sole purpose of BD’s equipment, vehicles and supplies is to conduct our business.They may only be used for BD business consistent with BD’s guidelines.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTYAND CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION

Each of us has the responsibility to make sure that company assets, including confidentialinformation, are only used for BD business. You must not use BD facilities, materials, equipment,or services for any purpose not related to our business without proper approval.

"Assets" means more than buildings or desks. Most of the information that you conceive ordevelop as part of your job is proprietary - that is, a valuable company asset. Such informationcould include technical, strategic, financial, employment, and business plans, documents,databases or drawings. Please keep in mind that much of our confidential information is storedelectronically. You should protect electronic data just as carefully as you would protect any paperdocument.

You must not share company proprietary information with others, or proprietary informationprovided to you by others including fellow associates, unless they need to know it for a legitimatebusiness reason. Unauthorized disclosure could destroy its value, and give unfair advantage toothers outside BD. Please also remember that unintentional disclosure (for example, throughindiscreet conversations in public places such as planes, elevators, restrooms, or restaurants) canbe just as damaging to BD. All proprietary information must be maintained in strict confidence,except when disclosure is authorized by BD or required by law.

Just as we value and protect our own proprietary information and trade secrets, it is also ourpolicy to respect the intellectual property rights of others. We respect patent, copyright,trademark, trade secret and other intellectual property rights held by others and we seek and


obtain licenses, if necessary, to avoid the violation of these rights in conducting our business. Weneither plagiarize nor publish material without proper attribution.

Some of you may have come to BD from other companies, and some of you may leave BD towork for someone else during your career. If you leave BD, you may not take any confidentialinformation from BD and reveal it to your new employer. Likewise, you may not reveal aprevious employer's confidential information to BD.

You should ask the Law Group for guidance should any issues arise in this area.

QUALITY AND REGULATION OF MEDICAL DEVICES

Many of the products that BD makes and sells are used to diagnose and treat patients all over theworld. To help successful diagnosis and treatment, these products must be medically safe andeffective for their intended use. The Food and Drug Administration in the U.S. and similaragencies in other countries and regions have established requirements to ensure the safety andeffectiveness of medical products. These requirements have the force of law in most countries;the regulatory agencies that enforce them are recognized by the public for protecting the health ofthe population.

BD has always believed that quality management and product quality are among our mostimportant values, along with the prevention of regulatory violations. We help to ensure productquality by:• adhering to regulatory and generally accepted good manufacturing and laboratory practices,

and quality system requirements;• conducting product clinical trials in accordance with regulatory and ethical standards;• making accurate product claims, supporting them with product testing and clinical trials where

appropriate;• properly registering all products by submitting true and complete information; and• properly labeling, advertising, and promoting our products; and• responding to complaints and other indicators of potential problems and taking timely and

appropriate corrective action.

Paying attention to quality is good for the patient, good for BD, and good for our personalsatisfaction in our work. Failure to meet product quality requirements can expose the patient topossible harm, and can expose BD, and you, to serious civil and criminal fines, and evenimprisonment. If you have any questions or issues in this area, please contact Corporate QualityManagement or Corporate Regulatory Affairs or, if applicable, your regional Regulatory Affairsassociate.


HEALTH, SAFETY AND ENVIRONMENT

Our job is to make medical technology products that will be safe and effective for the people whouse them. It is also our job to make sure that in doing so, we do not harm our fellow associates,communities, or the environment. The Corporate Safety and Environmental Policy states ourgoals:• To provide a safe and healthy workplace.• To comply at a minimum with legal standards and establish our own standards where

regulations are inadequate or do not exist.• To minimize the use and discharge of hazardous substances and promote recycling of

resources.Over the past several years, governments in many countries have established very strict andcomplex laws regulating health, safety, and environmental concerns. These laws carry serious civiland criminal penalties, both for companies and individuals. That is why it is important to attendthe safety and environmental training sessions which will be offered to some of you from time totime.

It is also important for you to advise BD of any serious workplace injury, the discharge of anyhazardous substances into the environment, or any situation presenting a danger of injury ordischarge. In many instances, we must report such events to governmental authorities quickly andaccurately. This information will also help us prevent such incidents either from happening -- orfrom happening again.

If a release or injury occurs, or if you are not sure how to handle a particular situation, pleasecontact the Corporate Safety and Environment Department for guidance.

ACCURACY OF FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION

Each of us records or prepares information of some kind during our work: financial reports,accounting records, business plans, regulatory submissions, expense accounts, and so on. Manypeople, inside and outside BD, are relying on those reports to be truthful and accurate - theyinclude our independent auditors, your fellow associates, our shareholders, government agencies,and our communities.

BD has set up accounting procedures to protect company assets and ensure the accuracy andreliability of its financial reports so that they may be reviewed by outside auditors. We may haveequally important obligations to report non-financial information accurately to regulatoryagencies, the investment community, and others. You should not, and no fellow associate shouldever ask you to, deviate from BD’s commitment to state necessary information truthfully andaccurately.


Our reports and documents filed with or submitted to the U.S. Securities and ExchangeCommission and our other public communications must include full, fair, accurate, timely andunderstandable disclosure. The BD Information Disclosure Policy also sets forth certainrestrictions regarding who is authorized to disclose information on behalf of BD and theconditions under which such disclosure may be made. A copy of this disclosure policy isavailable on the BD intranet site (http://bdone.bdx.com/corpcounsel/).

VOICING QUESTIONS AND CONCERNS

BD cannot meet the principles in this Guide without your help. Situations which may involve aviolation of ethics, laws or this Code may not always be clear and may require difficult judgment.In addition, you may have questions or encounter situations not covered in this Guide. If you feelyou are being pressured to violate the law, or observe anything else that concerns you, pleasebring it to BD's attention. Generally, you may do so through your supervisor, your localmanagement, your Human Resources representative, an appropriate staff department, the Officeof Ethics and Business Practices, a local ethics contact or committee or any Corporate Officer.

In the case of complaints or concerns regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditingmatters, you should report them promptly to the Director, Business Ethics and Practices and/orthe General Counsel. You may do so by mail, addressed to: Director of Business Ethics andConduct, 1 Becton Drive, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417, or by calling the BD Ethics Helpline, anindependent toll-free service, at 1-800-821-5452 (available seven days a week, 24 hours a day).Callers outside North America should use "AT&T Direct" to reach AT&T in the U.S., and thendial toll-free 1-800-821-5452. Translation services are available.

The Director, Business Ethics and Practices, and General Counsel, with the Internal AuditDepartment, will investigate the matter and report on such investigation. If he cannotsatisfactorily resolve the issue (or, even if resolved, the issue is material), the matter will bereported to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors in accordance with the proceduresestablished by the Audit Committee.

Any concerns about violations of this Guide by the CEO or any executive officer or seniorfinancial officer should be reported promptly to the General Counsel. If the General Counselcannot, after consultation with the CEO and CFO (provided such persons are not the subject ofthe allegation), satisfactorily resolve the issue, or if the General Counsel believes there has been aviolation of this Guide, the General Counsel will refer the matter to the Audit Committee; if theviolation involves a management director, the matter shall be referred to the Corporate Governanceand Nominating Committee of the Board.

Any concerns about violations of this Guide by a non-management director of BD should bereported promptly to the General Counsel, who shall promptly refer the matter to the CorporateGovernance and Nominating Committee and to the Chairman.


Office of Ethics and Business Practices and BD ETHICS HELPLINE

If you are not comfortable with any of these options, BD has established the ETHICSHELPLINE, run by an independent contractor, which is available to all associates worldwide,7 days a week, 24 hours a day. All HELPLINE inquiries are forwarded to the Director, BusinessEthics and Conduct within 24 hours (except for emergencies, which are forwarded immediately).The Ethics Office will either answer the inquiry directly, or make the appropriate referral so thatthe Company can follow up and respond. No action will be taken against you for bringing such amatter to BD’s attention, regardless of the outcome. And you may raise such questions withoutgiving your name, if you prefer.

The HELPLINE is available to every associate worldwide. In North America (Canada, U.S., andMexico) the HELPLINE may be reached toll-free at 800-821-5452. Callers from outside NorthAmerica should use “AT&T Direct” to reach AT&T in the US, then dial toll-free 800-821-5452.If you do not speak English, translation services are available. All inquiries will be kept strictlyconfidential. You will be able to follow up on the status of your inquiry through the HELPLINE.

Equal Application of this Code

BD recognizes the need for this Code to be applied equally to everyone it covers. The GeneralCounsel, with the Director, Business Ethics and Conduct, will have primary authority andresponsibility for the enforcement of this Code, subject to the supervision of the Audit orCorporate Governance and Nominating Committees of the Board of Directors, as describedin this Guide.

No Retaliation

BD wants you to know that you can raise any question or voice any concern about any legal orethical issue without fear that you will be disciplined or lose your job as long as you are acting ingood faith. "Good faith" does not mean that you need to be right - but it does mean that youshould be telling the truth as you know and believe it.

Ethics and Policy Information on BD Intranet

The BD Ethics Office maintains an ethics page on the BD Intranet that provides further informationon the policies and guidelines described in this Guide. This includes references to more detailedpolicy documents, links to other sites with related information, and “Questions and Answers” and“Quick Reference Guides” that address situations or concerns that frequently arise from associates.


WAIVERS AND AMENDMENTS

Amendments to this Guide must be approved by the Board of Directors; provided however that, with the approval of the Director, Business Ethics and Conduct and the General Counsel, implementation of this Guide in one or more countries outside of the United States may be made subject to local amendments or modifications in connection with circumstances or requirements in such country or countries. Waivers of one or more provision of this Guide with respect to a single employee or group oremployees may only be granted by the Director, Business Ethics and Conduct, in consultationwith the General Counsel. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any waiver of or amendment to the provisions in this Guide inrespect of executive officers or directors may only be granted by the Board of Directors or a committee thereof with the authority to grant such waivers, and will be promptly disclosed to BD's shareholders.

STAYING INFORMED AND MEASURING PROGRESS

TrainingAs you can see from the information in this Guide, your common sense and good intentions alonecannot always ensure that you will act ethically and comply with the law. That is why BD offerstraining to all of you about the principles in this Guide, and to some of you in more detail aboutsubjects, such as antitrust, safety and environment, employment, and device regulation, relatedmore specifically to your jobs. In addition, BD provides training on how to apply some of thebasic principles of ethical reasoning to help address ethical issues at work, discuss them withcolleagues, and resolve them.

Periodic Audits and CertificationTo measure our progress, BD will also be conducting ongoing audits in these important subjectareas. In addition a group of associates in managerial and other particularly sensitive positions willbe asked every year to certify their understanding of and compliance with the principles of thisGuide and related BD policies.

All of us have many demands on our time. But this training will only be effective if you are thereto hear it, and audits and the certification process will only be effective with your help. If you area manager, you are responsible for making sure that your people attend training sessions, andprovide honest responses to any audit or request for certification. Any notion that ethics orcompliance training and performance measurements do not go "directly to the bottom line" couldnot be more wrong. Failure to meet the standards in the Guide could hurt BD financially, hurtindividuals, and destroy one of BD’s most valuable assets - its reputation.


Department Contact Numbers

• Ethics Office 201.847.6866

• Law 201.847.3223

• Audit 201.847.5751

• Human Resources 201.847.6255

• Corporate Secretary 201.847.7102

• Intellectual Property 201.847.5317

• Environment & Safety 201.847.6974

• Quality 201.847.6987

• Regulatory Affairs 201.847.7429

• Medical Affairs 201.847.7438

• Corporate Security 201.847.7136

• Government Affairs 201.847. 4718

ETHICS ARE EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY

Know Our Responsibilities

• BD Core Values

• Business Conduct and Compliance Guide

• Legal Requirements

All associates should be familiar with our Core Values, with the provisions of the Business Conduct and Compliance Guide and other company policies, and with legal requirements that apply to their responsibilities and roles.

Get Help and Advice

• Local Contacts

• Ethics Office

If you need advice or assistance, discuss the matter with your colleagues, your local management, appropriate staff experts such as Quality or HR, or the Ethics Office. Many businesses and countries have also designated a local ethics contact (or contacts) to help and advise you.

If you have a concern or observe possible compliance or ethics problems, raise the issue with your local management or ethics contacts, staff experts or the Ethics Office.

Lead by Example

We are all leaders in this area. People will follow what we do, not what we say.

1 Becton Drive Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417www.bd.com

BD and BD Logo are trademarks of Becton, Dickinson and Company. ©2005 BD. BD 03/06 0623

BD Office of Ethics and Business Practices

Phone: 201-847-6866Fax: 201-847-5476E-mail: “Ethics Office” Confidential ETHICS HELPLINE: 800.821.5452

Economy & Finance

business_conduct_compliance_guide