The importance of a code of conduct

What is a code of conduct

The importance of a code of conduct desired behavior and integrity, complaint procedure and reporting system

A good code of conduct can contribute to a safe working environment in which employees feel supported and undesirable behavior is not tolerated. A good code of conduct of desired behavior and integrity can contribute to the prevention of undesired behavior by setting clear rules of conduct in the workplace and norms and values within the organization. Such a code of conduct provides the organization, management and supervisors with tools to properly assist employees if undesirable behavior or integrity issues do arise. Code of conduct example: a code of conduct can include guidelines on respectful manners, reporting incidents and promoting an inclusive work atmosphere.

Creating a code of conduct for desirable behaviour and integrity can be a challenging task, but it can be worth investing in. Here are some steps you can take as an organization to establish a code of conduct:

1. Identify which topics, values and procedures should be included in the code of conduct.
2. Determine who is responsible for drafting the code of conduct and who should be involved in the process.
3. Prepare a draft code of conduct and submit it to stakeholders for feedback.
4. Update the code of conduct based on the feedback and get approval from all parties involved.
5. Ensure that the code of conduct is regularly reviewed and updated if necessary.

A good code of conduct for desired manners and integrity includes

• A clear definition of the various forms of undesirable behavior, such as sexual harassment, intimidation, discrimination, aggression and bullying.
• A clear definition of the norms and values and rules of conduct employees within the organization.
• A description of what is considered desired behavior by the organization and employees.
• the confidant as well as a description of the purpose and function of the confidant.
• The duties and responsibilities of the confidential advisor. This may include, for example, having confidential discussions with employees, supporting employees in the complaints procedure or reporting system, and contributing to the prevention of undesirable behavior by, for example, providing information to employees and management.
• A description of the reporter’s confidentiality and privacy. It is important that employees have confidence that their confidential information will be handled securely and that their privacy will be respected.
• A reference to the complaint procedure and reporting system.
• A description of opportunities for additional or outside support. This could include a social worker (complaints officer, psychologist, occupational health physician, company social worker, lawyer, police etc).

Example corporate code of conduct: many companies establish a code of conduct that focuses not only on the workplace, but also on external behavior, such as dealings with customers and business partners.

Establish code of conduct

However, drafting a good code of conduct desired manners and integrity can be challenging and requires commitment and cooperation from both employer and employees.

In addition to the code of conduct, a complaint procedure and a reporting arrangement should also be established. These regulations can describe how employees can file a complaint, who handles the complaint and how the confidential advisor supports the employee during the process. The grievance procedure can also describe the maximum length of time a complaint can be handled. The same applies to the reporting procedure; how can an employee report an integrity issue, who handles it and how long does this take, and how can the confidential advisor support the employee in this process and what can and cannot remain confidential. A code of conduct, clear complaint procedure and reporting arrangement can contribute to a safe working environment for employees, the prevention of legal problems and the improvement of the organization’s corporate culture and image.