Ethical Line

 The decision to report should be made consciously, thoughtfully, and honestly.

Frequently Asked Questions about BDO's Ethics Line

• Frequently Asked Questions about BDO's Ethics Line?
  
  

  The Whistleblowing Channel, also referred to as the Ethics Line, is a secure, independent, and impartial communication channel managed by BDO Portugal. It allows you to report observed or suspected situations that violate legal or internal regulations.

  We emphasize that you can choose to report anonymously. However, if you decide to disclose your identity, it will be treated with absolute confidentiality, ensuring your safety and preventing any retaliatory actions by the organization.

  
  
  
• What type of reports can I make?
  
  Irregularities include acts or omissions, whether intentional or negligent, attributed to the conduct of Employees, Workers, or members of BDO Portugal's Management Bodies, as long as they affect an individual or the organization. These may involve unethical or unlawful behavior, including violations of the values or ethical standards outlined in the Code of Conduct, as well as breaches of policies and manuals currently in effect within the organization.
  
  
  
  
  
• Can I face retaliation for submitting a report?
  
  No. The Whistleblowing Channel was designed to ensure the complete security of your data when submitting a report. Internal control mechanisms have been implemented to prevent your report from being directed to individuals involved in the reported situation.
  
  Additionally, your identification details, if provided, are properly protected. If you prefer not to disclose them, the reported facts will be investigated while maintaining your anonymity.
  
  
  
• When can I submit reports? What are the hours of operation?
  
  This platform is available to submit reports/irregularities at any time, 7 days a week.
  
  
  
• What information should I provide when submitting a report?
  
  

  It is extremely important that you provide all possible information and details in your report to enable a thorough investigation of the facts.

  Therefore, we ask that you at least include the following:

  • OThe type of event being reported;
  • A brief description of the facts supporting the reported irregularity;
  • Whether the reported situation was observed, witnessed, or suspected;
  • Whether the reported situation is ongoing;
  • Whether you have any supporting documents related to the found irregularity, which you can attach to the report (e.g., photos, reports, etc.);
  • Identifying the relationship of the individual responsible for the irregularity with our institution.

• How can I follow up on my report?
  
  Upon completing the registration of a report, an access code will be automatically assigned, allowing you to access your report and track its progress. It is important to note that without the access code, it will not be possible to access or follow up on the registered report. Make sure to keep the code in a secure location.

Policy and Whistleblowing Communication Framework