Whistleblowing management system a must
Whistleblowing management system a must
“Whistleblowing has the potential to prevent and eliminate corruption, fraud, and illegal or wrongful acts that can save companies millions of rand. The act of whistleblowing can, in some cases, be daunting and life threatening. It is important that organisations are cognisant of the need to design systems that can protect the identity of whistleblowers,” says Sadhvir Bissoon, acting CEO of the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS).
The SABS has published the South African National Standard (SANS) 37002 Whistleblowing management systems – Guidelines. This document provides the framework and guidelines for any organisation to implement a whistleblowing management system based on the principles of trust, impartiality, and protection.
Bissoon explains that the guidelines contained in SANS 37002 are generic and intended to be applicable to all organisations, regardless of type, size, nature of activity, and whether in the public, private, or not-for profit sectors. The document is adopted from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and is the internationally accepted standard for organisations anywhere in the world to deal with whistleblowing.
The document includes guidelines on how to reduce and prevent detrimental treatment of whistleblowers and others involved, as well as demonstrate leadership commitment to prevent and address wrongdoing. It encourages people to blow the whistle and establish a culture of openness, transparency, integrity, and accountability. A practical framework for receiving, assessing, addressing, and concluding whistleblowing cases is also included.
Organisations can email info@sabs.co.za if they would like to receive training on SANS 37002 or visit the SABS webstore to purchase a copy of the national standard.
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