Section 1404. (a) A workers' compensation judge shall conform to the following code of ethics: (1) Avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety in all activities. (2) Perform duties impartially and diligently. (3) Avoid ex parte communications in any contested, on-the record matter pending before the department. (4) Abstain from expressing publicly, except in administrative disposition or adjudication, personal views on the merits of an adjudication pending before the department and require similar abstention on the part of department personnel subject to the workers' compensation judge's direction and control. (5) Require staff and personnel subject to the workers' compensation judge's direction and control to observe the standards of fidelity and diligence that apply to a workers' compensation judge. (6) Initiate appropriate disciplinary measures against department personnel subject to the workers' compensation judge's direction and control for unethical conduct. (7) Disqualify himself from proceedings in which impartiality may be reasonably questioned. (8) Keep informed about the personal and fiduciary interests of himself and his immediate family. (9) Regulate outside activities to minimize the risk of conflict with official duties. A workers' compensation judge may speak, write or lecture, and reimbursed expenses, honorariums, royalties or other money received in connection therewith shall be disclosed annually. A disclosure statement shall be filed with the secretary and the State Ethics Commission and shall be open to inspection by the public during the normal business hours of the department and the commission during the tenure of the workers' compensation judge. (10) Refrain from direct or indirect solicitation of funds for political, educational, religious, charitable, fraternal or civic purposes: Provided, however, That a workers' compensation judge may be an officer, a director or a trustee of such organizations. (11) Refrain from financial or business dealings, which would tend to reflect adversely on impartiality. A workers' compensation judge may hold and manage investments, which are not incompatible with the duties of office. (12) Conform to additional requirements as the secretary may prescribe. (13) Uphold the integrity and independence of the workers' compensation system.
(b) Any workers' compensation judge who violates the provisions of clause (a) shall be removed from office in accordance with the provisions of the act of August 5, 1941 (P.L.752, No.286), known as the "Civil Service Act."

(1404 added June 24, 1996, P.L.350, No.57)