Our detection system
Strict compliance with the law is very important to us. That's why we systematically ensure compliance with all laws and internal rules. However, we are aware that even the best compliance management system cannot prevent individual breaches. However, this does not mean that we condone violations. On the contrary, we want to identify them, stop them and learn from them for the future, as this is the only way to improve our compliance management system and reduce non-compliance.
We support whistleblowing on such irregularities, but on the other hand, whistleblowers are afraid of the consequences. That is why we have started working with Grant Thornton AG, and in the future they will receive whistleblowers' tips on irregularities in confidence. Information given in good faith must not be sanctioned. Whistleblowers acting in good faith must not be disadvantaged or penalised.
Detection system
The following link takes you to Grant Thornton's web-based whistleblowing system:
Through the system, irregularities can be reported confidentially (and anonymously if necessary). In order to allow for the quickest possible investigation of the tip-off, the underlying irregularities should be described as precisely as possible. The whistleblowing system will request this necessary information by means of precise questions. The anonymity system also allows for communication between the whistleblower and Grant Thornton to clarify details. The whistleblower will be informed of the progress made in resolving the report on the basis of the information processed.
The whistleblower can also contact Grant Thornton through the whistleblowing system to discuss these matters in person.
Abuse of the whistleblowing system
The whistleblowing system must not be misused. Please note that intentionally providing false information about third parties is a criminal offence.
Data protection
We are committed to ensuring data protection, which means that the rights of the data subject (including the rights of any person reported to the whistleblowing system who is alleged to have acted in breach of the rules) are safeguarded. This includes the right to be informed about the processing of the data subject's personal data related to the whistleblowing. The data subject's interest in receiving such information is usually secondary during the investigation. However, once the investigation is closed, such a request for information must be complied with. Whistleblowers are recommended to take this aspect into account, in particular if they wish to remain anonymous.
For more information on data protection, please refer to the Privacy Policy on this website.
Seizure of data
Please note that Grant Thornton is bound by confidentiality obligations with regard to the information provided by the whistleblower. However, such information is generally subject to seizure, i.e. investigating or other authorities may seize such information by court order and thus have access to it.
Options
In addition to the whistleblowing system, our employees can also report irregularities by contacting our compliance officer or a supervisor.