The BKW Group’s whistleblowing system is a confidential communication channel for employees, customers, business partners and other individuals or organisations that are in contact with BKW. Via the «Integrity Line», you can anonymously report suspected, observed or experienced behaviour that breaches applicable law, company-specific guidelines or ethical principles.Compliance with legal and company-specific regulations, as well as adherence to the principles set out in the Code of Conduct is a top priority at BKW. To safeguard our integrity and compliance, we rely on the early identification and prevention of possible misconduct by our employees and partners. To this end, we provide all employees and third parties connected with our Group with our whistleblowing system, the «Integrity Line», as our reporting channel for reporting experienced or observed misconduct securely and – if desired – anonymously.The independent and neutral Compliance department of the BKW Group investigates every report with the necessary care. Compliance is committed to establishing the truth of the report and, in each case, seeks both incriminating and exonerating grounds for both parties equally. Whistleblowers, persons concerned and employees who contribute to clarifying the reported misconduct will not be disadvantaged as a result of their involvement. All data and information – especially the identity of whistleblowers – are treated as strictly confidential and anonymous.

Processing reportsHow we proceedAs soon as a report has been received by us, our Compliance Team checks its veracity and assesses the potential risk to employees, individuals involved, the company and the public. If necessary, an investigation is also initiated. If this is the case, the report is objectively examined from all perspectives. If misconduct is confirmed, appropriate measures are taken and implemented.
Our procedural principlesWe investigate every report without exception, regardless of who is accused of a breach. The following principles apply to every investigation:Presumption of innocenceAny person accused of possible misconduct or a possible irregularity is considered innocent until it is established that they are responsible for a breach of the rules.Protection of contributorsWhistleblowers and persons assisting must not suffer any disadvantages as a result of their report and cooperation.ConfidentialityMaintaining anonymity, confidentiality and the protection of the personal data of the persons involved is a priority and is ensured.IndependenceEvery report is handled objectively and impartially. Conflicts of interest are disclosed at all times.Equal treatmentInvestigations are based on incriminating and exculpatory facts and evidence. Influence by a particular position or functional level is not accepted.Appropriate hearingEmployees affected by an internal investigation are given the opportunity to comment on the allegations.

Report misconduct

Reports of possible rule violations, whether against applicable law, company-specific guidelines or ethical principles, can be submitted via the BKW Group whistleblowing system.

Integrity Line

If you have any questions about the Code of Conduct, the whistleblowing system or the procedure for investigating reports, you can contact the BKW Group Compliance Team directly.