Whistleblowing

Whistleblowing information must be provided in writing or verbally to the internal reporting channel. If the whistleblower requests a meeting, it must be held within 14 days. Once information is received, the allegations must be investigated promptly and thoroughly. This may include gathering additional evidence, conducting interviews and taking appropriate action to remedy any violations identified. Whistleblowers also have the right to add to or correct any information provided. Feedback must be provided to the whistleblower no later than three months after receipt of the information. This includes information on follow-up action or the reasons why the information was not followed up.

The whistleblower procedure requires – in its broad outlines – that the personal and material scope of the Whistleblower Protection Act is applicable. Assuming this, the whistleblower must have obtained information about violations in connection with his or her professional activities or in advance of professional activities. In a further step, the whistleblower must report or disclose these violations to the internal and external reporting bodies responsible. The Reporting Office will issue an acknowledgement of receipt to the person making the report within seven days. Within three months of the acknowledgement of receipt, feedback will be provided to the whistleblower on planned and already taken follow-up measures and their reasoning. This information will be documented in compliance with the principle of confidentiality. This documentation will be deleted two years after the conclusion of the proceedings.