Intuitive Surgical implements conflict minerals policy
Intuitive Surgical has established a due diligence process to ensure minerals used in its products do not finance armed groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo region.
New York – Medical device manufacturer Intuitive Surgical has implemented a policy to comply with U.S. regulations on conflict minerals. The company has formed a cross-functional working group comprising representatives from global supply chain operations, corporate finance, legal, and global public affairs.
This team will evaluate suppliers to ensure that materials used in Intuitive Surgical products do not originate from the Democratic Republic of Congo and adjoining countries. This region has been identified as a source where profits from certain minerals may finance armed groups and contribute to human rights violations, under the "Conflict Minerals Rule" included in the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act.
Intuitive Surgical requires its suppliers to establish their own due diligence programs for monitoring and reporting the origin of minerals. The company stated it will reassess relationships with suppliers whose supply chains are found to include minerals from conflict sources that benefit or finance armed groups.
The regulations aim to increase transparency in the sourcing of minerals from regions experiencing conflict.