Whistleblowing System of GEZE Benelux B.V.

Integrity and compliance with laws and internal regulations are of utmost importance to us. Our company systematically addresses the task of adhering to both legal and internal rules – in other words, compliance. At the same time, we are aware that even the most effective compliance management cannot prevent every violation. This does not mean, however, that we would tolerate such misconduct. On the contrary, we seek to investigate it, put an end to it, and learn from it for the future. This is the only way to continuously improve our compliance management and reduce the likelihood of further violations.

We therefore encourage the reporting of potential compliance breaches. Many whistleblowers fear retaliation when pointing out misconduct. For this reason, we have engaged kombud GmbH, which is committed to receiving such reports confidentially and following them up objectively with the necessary professional expertise. It is strictly prohibited to penalize reports made in good faith. Whistleblowers acting in good faith must not be disadvantaged or subjected to any form of retaliation.

Reporting channel for whistleblowers

You can access the online whistleblowing system operated by kombud GmbH at the following link: 

To the whistleblower system

This system enables whistleblowers to report compliance violations at GEZE Benelux B.V. confidentially and, if desired, anonymously. To ensure that reports can be processed as quickly as possible, it is helpful if the underlying misconduct is described as precisely as possible. The system therefore offers optional guidance through questions to assist in providing the necessary information. At the same time, it allows for secure communication between the whistleblower and kombud GmbH, even while maintaining the whistleblower’s anonymity, for example to clarify any open questions.

This whistleblowing system is not operated by automated bots. Every report is received and assessed by qualified professionals and subsequently reviewed within an expert team. kombud GmbH is committed to the objective and fair investigation of all allegations of compliance breaches. In addition, whistleblowers will – as far as the handling of the report permits – be kept informed of the progress of the investigation. Whistleblowers also have the option of arranging a personal meeting with kombud GmbH through the system.

Abuse of the whistleblowing system

Misuse of the whistleblowing system will not be tolerated. Please note that deliberately making false allegations against others may constitute a criminal offense.

Data protection

We are committed to data protection, which also includes safeguarding the rights of all individuals concerned – including the rights of the person against whom an allegation of a compliance violation is made. This includes the right to obtain access to all personal data processed in connection with the report. As a rule, the data subject’s interest in access will take a back seat until the investigation of the report has been completed. Once the investigation is concluded, however, requests for access must generally be granted. We therefore recommend that whistleblowers bear this in mind when submitting a report, particularly if they wish to remain anonymous.
Further information on data protection can be found in the privacy policy on this website.

Non-exemption from seizure

Finally, please note that while kombud GmbH is bound to confidentiality with respect to all information received through the whistleblowing system or by other means, such information is generally not exempt from seizure. Investigative or other authorities may access this information on the basis of a court order.

Additional reporting channels

In addition to the whistleblowing system, employees may continue to raise concerns at any time directly with their supervisor. Irrespective of the internal whistleblowing system, employees may contact the competent national external reporting channel in their country. This obligation is based on Article 10 of Directive (EU) 2019/1937 on the protection of persons who report breaches of Union law.