Ethics Alert System – Guide and FAQ
Why an alert system?
We firmly believe that our employees are our most asset. To maintain a healthy, ethical, and safe working environment, it is essential to report any behavior or situation that violates our values or the law. The alert system allows everyone to speak up, ask questions, seek advice, or report suspicious situations – in complete confidentiality.
1. General Use of the Alert System
Why should I report suspicious behavior?
Integrity is everyone’s responsibility. By reporting inappropriate behavior, you help protect your work environment, your colleagues, the company, and yourself. Staying silent could allow harmful practices to spread.
Does management actually want me to report?
Yes. We count on you to raise any concerns. As an employee, you’re often the first to notice irregularities. Your report could help prevent serious consequences.
Who can use this system?
All employees, including temporary workers, interns, service providers, and partners in the countries where we operate.
When should I raise an alert?
As soon as you have a serious concern. You don’t need solid proof – it’s better to report a suspicious situation than to let unethical behavior continue.
2. Covered Situations
The alert system can be used to report:
- Economic violations: corruption, fraud, embezzlement, favoritism, misuse of company assets.
- Violence and discrimination: moral or sexual harassment, discrimination, unsafe working conditions, chronic stress or burnout symptoms.
- Environment: environmental threats, breaches of safety regulations.
- Code of Conduct violations: unauthorized gifts, unjustified expense claims, failure to follow internal procedures.
3. Reporting Procedure
What are the reporting channels?
- A secure alert platform, available 24/7 from any internet-connected device.
- The Ethics and Compliance department
- The Human Resources department
- Your manager
- Employee representatives
Is the system available in all languages?
Yes. The platform is available in all the languages of the countries where we operate.
4. Confidentiality and Security
Is my identity protected?
Yes. The whistleblower’s identity is strictly confidential. Only authorized personnel bound by confidentiality obligations will have access to the necessary information.
What if I’m named in a report?
You are presumed innocent until proven otherwise. If an investigation is opened, it will be conducted with full respect for your rights and confidentiality.
Are there risks of retaliation?
No disciplinary, managerial, or legal action can be taken against you if the alert is made in good faith, even if no wrongdoing is ultimately found.
What if I’m wrong or the issue is minor?
It’s better to report a doubt than to say nothing. The company prefers to look into a minor concern than miss a potentially serious problem.
5. Follow-up and Interaction
Can I add information after submitting a report?
Yes. With your unique ID, you can log back in at any time to update your report or respond to questions from the investigation team.
What happens after I report?
An investigation will be opened by authorized personnel under strict confidentiality. You can track the progress of your report through the platform.
What if I lose my password or ID?
For security reasons, no reminders will be sent. You’ll need to submit a new report and indicate that it’s linked to a previous one.
6. Compensation, Obligation, and Best Practices
Am I required to report?
No, reporting is not mandatory. But it is strongly encouraged for the benefit of all.
Can I be rewarded for reporting?
No. Whistleblowing should be motivated by integrity, not personal gain. The law prohibits financial compensation. However, whistleblowers acting in good faith are protected.
Which behaviors should be avoided?
- Using the alert system to intentionally harm someone.
- Sharing confidential information outside the secure platform.