CSA Group publishes free guide on whistleblowing systems

CSA Group has published a new guideline on whistleblowing systems to help organizations empower employees to report suspected issues at work around corporate ethics, compliance and health and safety.
Whistleblowing, which is the act of reporting suspected wrongdoing, mismanagement and unethical conduct in an organization, is one of the most effective methods for identifying activities that could potentially cause harm to an organization, the public interest or the health and safety of the environment, said CSA. The information gained from whistleblowing activities can be invaluable to organizations.

Government bodies, corporations and non-profit associations are looking for ways to proactively encourage a “speak-up” culture that enables their employees to voice any concerns.

“Promoting and maintaining ethical practices can help organizations create an innovative workplace where employees actively contribute to the advancement of the organization. This helps improve the overall performance of the company and creates a positive workplace,” said Gianluca Arcari, executive director, standards and vice -president, CSA Group.

Whistleblowing Systems – A Guide was developed to help organizations establish and manage an effective mechanism for whistleblowing activities. The guideline provides a background on existing Canadian laws and codes related to whistleblowing as well as a summary of the key performance benefits associated with a whistleblowing system.

In order to help organizations develop internal systems specific to their operations, the guideline also highlights key planning considerations and identifies the target outcomes of a successful system. The guide also addresses the most critical issues in developing an effective system, including the challenge of protecting whistleblowers from reprisals.