Whistleblowing techniques for sale

Whistleblowing techniques have been transformed into a valuable product that can be sold and purchased…. writes Godfrey Sigwela.

That means the art of whistleblowing has become a sophisticated information technology tool which everyone should learn and understand.

Definitely, whistleblowing copies would sell like hot cakes as it seems everyone would like to explore what constitutes the presence of whistleblowing.

As a result the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) want each and every company in South Africa to have whistleblowing fitted in to the company’s strategic system.

According to the SABS, they have published South African National Standard (SANS) 37002 Whistleblowing management systems — Guidelines.

The SABS say this document provides the framework and guidelines for any organisation to implement a whistleblowing management system. It will be based on the principles of trust, impartiality, and protection.

Acting CEO of SABS Sadhvir Bissoon says “whistleblowing has the potential to prevent and eliminate corruption, fraud and illegal or wrongful acts that can save companies millions of rand.

“The act of whistleblowing can be daunting and life-threatening in some cases. It is important that organisations are cognisant of the need to design systems that can protect the identity of whistleblowers.”

Bissoon explained that the guidelines contained in SANS 37002 is generic and intended to be applicable to all organisations, regardless of type, size, nature of activity, and whether in the public, private or not-for profit sectors.

Bissoon emphasised that the document is adopted from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and is an internationally-accepted standard for organisations, anywhere in the world.

The document includes guidelines on how to reduce and prevent the detrimental treatment of whistleblowing and others involved.

A practical framework for receiving, assessing, addressing and concluding whistleblowing cases are also included.

Organisations can email info@sabs.co.za if they would like to receive training on SANS 37002 or visit the SABS webstore to purchase a copy of the national standard.

By Godfrey Sigwela