Frequently Asked Questions
About EthicsPoint
What is EthicsPoint?
EthicsPoint is a comprehensive and confidential reporting tool created by NAVEX that enables management and employees to work together to address fraud, abuse, and other misconduct in the workplace while cultivating a positive work environment.
Why do we need a system like EthicsPoint?
- Our colleagues are our most important asset. By creating open channels of communication, we promote a positive work environment and maximize productivity.
- An effective reporting system augments our other efforts to foster a culture of trust, learning and accountability.
Reporting – General
How can I report issues that I’m concerned about?
EthicsPoint enables you to file a confidential, anonymous report via either the telephone or the Internet.
What types of situations should I report?
The EthicsPoint system allows employees to report legitimate concerns about conduct and practices which may be contrary to our codes of conduct, safety standards, policies, work protocols and procedures; or any other concern you might have about our business.
If I see a something I’m concerned about, shouldn't I just report it to my manager?
Ideally, you should bring any concerns forward to your supervisor or manager. We recognise, however, that there may be circumstances when you are not comfortable reporting the issue in this manner. It is for such circumstances that we have partnered with NAVEX, using their EthicsPoint service. We have carefully chosen the best reporting tool to meet our obligations while maintaining a positive reporting environment. We would rather you report anonymously than keep the information to yourself.
Why should I report what I know? What’s in it for me?
We all have the right to work in a positive environment and with that right comes the responsibility of acting in an ethical manner and letting the appropriate people know if someone is not acting appropriately. By working together, we can maintain a healthy and productive environment.
Does management really want me to report?
We certainly do. In fact, we need you to report. You know what is going on at Southeastern - both good and bad. You may have initial knowledge of an activity that may be cause for concern. Your reporting can minimise the potential negative impact on Southeastern and our people. Also, offering positive input may help identify issues that can improve our culture and performance.
Where do these reports go? Who can access them?
Reports are entered directly on the EthicsPoint secure server. NAVEX makes these reports available only to specific individuals within the company who evaluate the report, based on the type of concern and location of the incident. Every report recipient has had training in handling of confidential information.
Tips & Best Practices
I am aware of some individuals acting unethically, but it doesn't affect me. Why should I bother reporting it?Our company promotes ethical behavior. All unethical conduct, at any level, ultimately hurts the company and all employees, including you. You only have to consider what happened in recent corporate scandals to see the disastrous effects that a lapse in ethics can have on an otherwise healthy company. If you know of any incidents of misconduct or ethical violations, consider it your duty to yourself and your coworkers to report it.
I am not sure if what I have observed or heard is a violation of company policy, or involves unethical conduct, but it just does not look right to me. What should I do?File a report. NAVEX can help you prepare and file your report so it can be properly understood. We'd rather you report a situation that turns out to be harmless than let possible unethical behavior go unchecked.
What if my boss or other managers are involved in a violation? Won’t they get the report and start a cover-up?The EthicsPoint system and report distribution ensure that implicated parties are not notified or granted access to reports in which they have been named.
What if I remember something important about the incident after I file the report? Or what if the company has further questions for me concerning my report?When you file a report at the EthicsPoint Web site or through the EthicsPoint Call Center, you receive a unique, randomized number called a “Report Key” and are asked to choose a password. You can return to the EthicsPoint system again either by Internet or telephone and access the original report to add more detail or answer questions posed by a company representative. We strongly suggest that you return to the site in the time specified to answer company questions. You and the company now have entered into an “anonymous dialogue,” where situations are not only identified, but can also be resolved, no matter how complex.
Are these follow-ups on reports as secure as the first one?All EthicsPoint correspondences are held in the same strict confidence as the initial report, continuing under the umbrella of anonymity.
What if I lose my Report Key or forget the Password I created?To ensure that security and confidentiality is maintained, if you lose your report key or password, you will need to file a new report. Mention in the new report that it is related to a report or question you previously submitted.
Can I still file a report if I don’t have access to the Internet?You can file an EthicsPoint report from any computer that can access the Internet. You can file from home. Many public locations, including the public library, have Internet computers. If you don’t have access to or are uncomfortable using a computer, you can call the EthicsPoint free charge hotline, which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.