ABB blogging and web posting policy

Here is the "final" version of our blogging policy that has been in the works for some time:

"In general, the company views employees' web involvement positively, and respects the right of employees to use the web as a medium of self-expression. However, if you choose to identify yourself as an ABB employee or to discuss matters related to our technology, business or activities, please bear in mind that, although you and we view your web postings as a personal project and a medium of personal expression, some readers may nonetheless view you as a de facto spokesperson for the company. In light of this possibility, we ask that you observe the following guidelines:

1. The principles and guidelines that apply to ABB employees at work also apply to their on-line activities. Know and understand ABB's Code of Conduct and relevant Group directives and instructions. Please contact Group Function Legal and Compliance in case of doubts.
2. ABB strives to compete fairly and thus the web should not be used for covert marketing or public relations. This is especially important if you post anonymously to third party web sites. Remember: No-one is truly anonymous on the web and your postings may be tracked back to you or the company and damage our reputation.
3. Make it clear to your readers that the views you express are yours alone and that they do not necessarily reflect the views of ABB. If you have a blog or personal website, reduce the potential for confusion by putting the following notice – or something similar – in a reasonably prominent place: "The views expressed on this website/blog are mine alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer."
4. The best way to be interesting is to write about what you know. Try to add value by providing worthwhile information and perspective. If you have a deep understanding of something, talk about the challenges and issues around it. Respect your audience.
5. Be careful to avoid disclosing any information that is confidential or proprietary to ABB or to any third party that has disclosed information to us. Do not publish specifics about ABB's relationship to customers or partners without their explicit consent. Be extra careful with information related to financial performance to make sure you are in compliance with financial disclosure regulations.
6. Be as respectful to the company, our employees, our customers, our partners and affiliates, and others (including our competitors) as the company itself endeavors to be. Show proper consideration for others' privacy and avoid comments which may be derogatory in nature. This includes material that relates to aspects of gender, race, age, nationality, sexual orientation, politics, religion or physical ability.
7. You may not attack personally fellow employees, customers, competitors, vendors, or shareholders. You may respectfully disagree with company actions, policies, or management.
8. Remember that what you publish will remain public for a long time.
9. Be the first to correct your own mistakes, and don't alter previous posts without indicating that you have done so.
10. Respect the copyright of others.
11. You may provide a link from your site to the corporate website. However you will require permission from Corporate Communications to use company trademarks or reproduce company material on your site.
12. If a member of the media contacts you about an ABB-related blog posting or requests ABB information of any kind, contact Corporate Communications. Do not convey information to any outsiders that should not be made public.
13. Ensure that your blogging activity does not interfere with your work commitments.
14. Finally, please be aware that the company may request that you temporarily confine your website or weblog commentary to topics unrelated to the company if it believes this is necessary or advisable to ensure compliance with securities regulations or other laws. "