Although federal ethics standards apply all year long, the Postal Service wants employees to remember that complying with these rules is especially important during the holidays.

The Ethics Office has posted a presentation on Blue to help employees become familiar with the standards of ethical conduct.

The presentation covers several topics, including gift exchanges between employees and outside sources, such as vendors and contract employees; and attending holiday parties hosted by organizations outside USPS.

“This is a special time of year — as well as peak ‘hippopotamus-delivery season’ — and dealing with a violation of the ethics rules can distract us from the important work we do during the holidays,” said Associate General Counsel and Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer Michael J. Elston. “But if we all follow the rules, we can keep delivering holiday cheer into the new year.”

If you have questions about the presentation or specific situations, email the Ethics Office or call its hotline at 202-268-6346.