Before you develop specific whistleblowing procedures, it may be useful to consider:
- What can go wrong in our organization?
- What consequences might matters of concern entail?
- How often do such situations happen?
- What can we do to prevent matters of concern?
- What can we do to mitigate the consequences if matters of concern occur?
The risk assessment should be conducted together with employees, safety representatives, and elected representatives. The following are typical situations that can be discussed in connection with a risk assessment:
- Events where alcohol is consumed
- Gifts from customers or others
- Use of the company's premises for private purposes
- Undeclared work
- Harassment or discrimination at the workplace
- Use of the company's areas
- Use of company cars for private purposes
Such an assessment can provide a good basis for developing ethical guidelines and whistleblowing procedures for the company. What can happen? Which rules apply to whom? What are the consequences of breaking the rules? The rules should be easy to understand, and all employees should be aware of the consequences of breaking them.