A working environment that is respectful and based on trust is the most important prerequisite for preventing violations of integrity. Where cooperation is characterised by openness, tolerance and respect, violations of integrity occur less frequently.

Have a written policy stipulating that your company does not tolerate violations of personal integrity. The set of instructions can be integrated into the conditions of employment, the HR policy or other policies. Ensure that all employees are aware of the instructions. You should also draw up rules that define the various forms of integrity violations and provide information on the responsible contact persons, consequences and sanctions relating to violations. These rules should also provide information on the procedure to be followed in the event of complaints.

Designate who can be contacted if a violation of someone’s personal integrity is suspected. At one level, these should be contact persons who are obliged to take action if a violation is reported (duty to intervene). At the same time, a confidential point of contact (with no obligation to intervene) should also be available to those affected to provide the minimum level of support, i.e. giving information and indicating possible courses of action.

Specify how to proceed in the event of complaints or suspected cases. Make sure that those responsible understand their role and remit and are able to perform their duties.

Managers should be trained in dealing with conflicts and signs of behaviour that violates boundaries. Ensure that conflict situations are addressed at an early stage and that action is taken immediately in the event of behaviour that violates boundaries. Inform managers about the applicable policies and the procedure to be followed in the event of suspected violations of integrity and if complaints are filed.

Employees need to know that violations of personal integrity will not be tolerated, behaviour that violates integrity will be sanctioned and that those affected will be protected. Employees should be aware of the forms of integrity violations (bullying, sexual harassment, discrimination and threat and violence). Inform employees of what to do in the event of a violation of their personal integrity, where they can seek confidential advice, report an incident or file a complaint.