Whistleblower Protections

A Whistleblower Protections policy encourages employees to report suspected legal violations or unsafe conduct and explains your organization's commitment to non-retaliation, including any jurisdiction-specific notice or reporting steps that may apply.

How to Write a Whistleblower Protections Policy

• Start with "why" and introduce the concept, encouraging employees to speak up about suspected wrongdoing and reinforcing a culture of integrity.
• State the policy's core promise that employees may raise concerns about suspected legal or regulatory violations without retaliation.
• Define the types of concerns covered, including suspected unlawful activities, policies, or practices by your organization or performed on its behalf.
• List protected activities, including reporting concerns internally or to government bodies, cooperating with investigations, and providing information or testimony.
• Include protections for employees who object to, or refuse to participate in, conduct they reasonably believe is unlawful or improper.
• Address any special categories of protected reports recognized by applicable law, such as public safety risks or deception affecting stakeholders.
• Explain the reporting process at a high level, encouraging internal reporting and noting that some laws require internal written notice before external disclosure.
• Clarify that the policy doesn't restrict employees from contacting government agencies, law enforcement, or participating in investigations or proceedings.
• Close with a simple "questions or help" contact point for employees who need support making a report.

For advice on writing a Whistleblower Protections policy in a specific jurisdiction, see below.