You will probably be beginning your work week with discussions and possibly concerns arising from news that came out this past Saturday.
Medical-device maker Medtronics Inc. is in advanced talks to combine with rival Covidien PLC in a deal valued at more than $40 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.
This will certainly be a distraction in the work environment and we all know that distraction can have serious consequences in our EHS responsibilities. I need you to exercise leadership in assuring that you fulfill your responsibilities. In Quality and Operations we begin each meeting with our Integrity, Honesty, Safety and Quality statements.
These statements have not changed:
We will conduct business with integrity and honesty in compliance with all laws and company policy.
We are committed to produce products that are safe and of the highest quality for our customers.
The decisions that are being made are beyond our responsibility, and do not need to cause distractions. I have full faith in our executives and Board of Directors that they will make the necessary decisions, but in the meantime we need to focus on the current fiscal year and our strategies and activities to make continued improvements in employee health, safety and environmental responsibility. Your FY14 goals and objectives are in full effect. You do not need to make any changes, other than increase awareness for distracted behaviors. Where you observe distractions remind employees of the importance in focusing on their job and then raise the issue with supervision and management. Your diligence over the next few weeks will ensure that our employees focus on their work and continue to perform at a world class level.
If you have any specific concerns, please feel free to contact me and we will try to address your concerns promptly.