In March 2000, Faber-Castell and the IG Metall trade union ratified an agreement they had worked out jointly and which applies in all countries. The Faber-Castell social charter is one of first of its kind in the world. The company voluntarily commits itself to assuring, in all subsidiaries, the terms of employment and working conditions recommended by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The charter includes, amongst other things, a ban on child labour, a guarantee of safe and hygienic working conditions, and also equal opportunities and treatment, regardless of race, religion, sex, or nationality. A committee checks at regular intervals that the terms are being complied with.
As one of the oldest industrial companies, Faber-Castell has shown a high degree of social commitment for many generations. As long ago as the mid-19th century it set up one of the first company health insurance schemes in Germany, and one of the first children's crèches; it founded schools and built houses and apartments for employees.
