Whistleblower Policy
Author: Wayne D. Garris
When to Use
A Whistleblower Policy lets employees know that an employer is committed to conducting business legally and ethically. By providing the means for employees to air their concerns or lodge complaints, the employer shows its willingness to act responsibly and transparently. The policy should emphasize the importance of complying with the organization's Code of Ethics and with all laws and regulations.
Several federal laws overseen by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) protect whistleblowers, including the Dodd-Frank Act, the False Claims Act, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, and provisions of the US Tax Code, among many others. Publicly traded corporations may have a legal obligation to have a Whistleblower Policy and to maintain a hotline for anonymous reporting. Other organizations may find it prudent to have one. Employers should share this policy with all employees and management and reassure employees that they can disclose misconduct without fear of retaliation.
