It is important to recognize that these activities are subject to certain legal limits imposed by state and federal antitrust laws.

One central concern of these laws is with combinations or agreements in restraint of trade whereby competition is reduced by design. Business people generally are cognizant of the restrictions on price fixing imposed by the law. In addition, there are many other areas in which legal implications are raised. For example, agreements to reduce prices, standardize discounts, divide territorial markets or customers, or to promote group boycotts are illegal.

Consequently, in the course of all trade association activities, discussions among members involving pricing, sale terms, territories, production or other aspects of competition, must be avoided. In the event any member ever feels that the course of association activities or statements or actions in association meetings is headed into such an area, members should raise the issue immediately so that further discussion of such matters can be suspended pending receipt of advice satisfactory to the members that the topics addressed do not give rise to antitrust problems.

PAFED CODE OF ETHICS

We, as active members of the Pennsylvania Association of Fire Equipment Distributors, recognize that the products and services we provide have a significant impact on the quality of life for the entire public. As we perform our services, we will demonstrate the highest level of professionalism, personal integrity, and competence. Accordingly, we adhere to the PAFED Code of Ethics, which states:

1. We will fulfill our obligations to our clients in an efficient and competent manner and with complete honesty.
2. We undertake to provide only those services for which we are competent by way of education, training, and experience.
3. We strive to maintain our proficiency by a process of continually updating our knowledge and skills.
4. We strive to adhere to all established codes and standards relevant to the products and services we provide. We do not attempt to misuse codes and standards, or the process by which these codes and standards are created.
5. We strive to follow all instructions established by the manufacturers of the equipment we provide or service.
6. We will analyze the needs of our clients completely and professionally, and make honest recommendations to fulfill those needs based on all available information.
7. We strive to warn of any condition we notice that may affect the safety, health, and well-being of our clients, their property, and their employees.
8. We will keep confidential and will not misuse the proprietary business information and trade secrets of our clients.
9. We will conduct ourselves in a dignified and professional manner. We will admit and accept our own errors when proven wrong. We will not distort or alter the facts in an attempt to justify our decisions.
10. We recognize that we are invited into our clients' facilities and will conduct ourselves in a safe and professional manner. We will treat our clients' goods and property with the highest regard.

Adopted 01/21/2020