Global Ethics Hotline FAQs – EthicsPoint (NAVEX)
Thermo Fisher strive to provide a secure atmosphere for colleagues, customers, suppliers, workers in the supply chain, and other third parties to report any concerns. If any stakeholder believes a violation of law, our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, or any company policies or procedures has occurred, we encourage them to promptly report the matter.
About EthicsPoint
What is EthicsPoint?
EthicsPoint is the secure reporting and case management platform provided by NAVEX that supports Thermo Fisher’s Global Ethics Hotline.
Why do we need a system like EthicsPoint?
The Global Ethics Hotline provides an easy-to-use, reliable and anonymous communication tool to report any issues, concerns or violations of law or company policies in a safe and confidential manner which;
- Offers an additional reporting channel when someone is not comfortable using standard management or local reporting routes.
- Supports confidential handling of reports and appropriate follow-up through a structured review process.
- Helps the company identify and address issues early, strengthen integrity, and reduce risk.
Reporting – General
May I report using either the Internet or the telephone?
Yes. You can submit a report through the Global Ethics Hotline website or on a mobile telephone device using the QR code. Telephone reporting is also available in some locations.
What type of situations should I report?
Use the Global Ethics Hotline to report suspected ethical misconduct or potential violations of the Code of Conduct and company policies including but not limited to:
- Fraud, theft, or misuse of company resources
- Harassment, discrimination, or other workplace misconduct
- Conflicts of interest (concerns about undisclosed conflicts)
- Data privacy or information security concerns
- Regulatory or compliance concerns
- Retaliation for raising a concern in good faith
If you are unsure whether something is a violation, you can still submit a report or ask for guidance.
If I see a violation, shouldn’t I just report it to my manager, security, or human resources and let them deal with it?
If you are comfortable doing so, raising concerns with your manager or appropriate internal teams is encouraged. The Global Ethics Hotline is available as an alternative channel, including confidential and (where permitted by law) anonymous reporting. Although reports can be made anonymously, where legally permitted, in certain cases, Thermo Fisher Scientific may request that you identify yourself so that the company can obtain all facts and properly investigate allegations.
Why should I report what I know? What’s in it for me?
Everyone has the right to work in a respectful and compliant environment. Speaking up helps protect colleagues, supports a positive culture, and reduces the risk that misconduct harms people or the organization.
Does management really want me to report?
Yes. Thermo Fisher encourages reporting so concerns can be reviewed and addressed appropriately, and so potential issues can be identified early.
Where do these reports go? Who can access them?
Reports are routed through a controlled case management process and reviewed by designated individuals responsible for evaluating and addressing concerns. Access is limited to those who need to know, to assess and respond to the report, with an emphasis on confidentiality. Escalation and resolution processes differ depending on the type of issue raised.
Isn’t this system just an example of someone watching over me?
No. The Global Ethics Hotline is intended to help colleagues raise concerns and support an ethical and compliant workplace through effective communication and appropriate follow-up.
Reporting Security & Confidentiality
It is my understanding that any report I send from a company computer generates a server log. Won’t this identify me as a report originator?
EthicsPoint does not generate or maintain any internal connection logs with IP addresses, so no information linking your PC to EthicsPoint is available. In fact, EthicsPoint is contractually committed not to pursue a reporter’s identity. The Hotline process is designed to support confidential and anonymous reporting.
Can I file a report from home and still remain anonymous?
Yes. You can submit a report from home via the web portal or any Internet portal and this will remain secure and anonymous. An Internet portal never identifies a visitor by screen name and the EthicsPoint system strips away Internet addresses so that anonymity is totally maintained. Plus, EthicsPoint is contractually committed not to pursue a reporter’s identity.
I am concerned that the information I provide will ultimately reveal my identity. How can you assure me that will not happen?
The system supports confidential reporting, but anonymity can be unintentionally compromised by details included in the report narrative. If you want to remain anonymous, avoid including information that could identify you (for example, unique role details, attachments revealing your name, or highly specific personal history). For some anonymous reports, investigators may need additional information or clarification to proceed—please check back in your case periodically to see whether there is a request for further information or your participation. Information you provide will be shared only on a need-to-know basis.
Is the telephone toll-free hotline confidential and anonymous too?
Yes. Telephone reports are handled using the same confidentiality principles as online reports.
What if I want to be identified with my report?
You may choose to identify yourself. Identifying yourself can make it easier to follow up, clarify facts and resolve the concern more efficiently. Information you provide will be shared only on a need-to-know basis. Thermo Fisher does not tolerate retaliation against anyone who raises a concern in good faith.
Tips & Best Practices
I am aware of some individuals involved with unethical conduct, but it doesn’t affect me. Why should I bother reporting it?
Misconduct can harm colleagues and the organization even if it does not affect you directly. Reporting concerns helps prevent escalation and supports a safe and ethical workplace.
I am not sure if what I have observed or heard is a violation of company policy, or involves unethical conduct, but it just does not look right to me. What should I do?
Submit what you know. Provide objective facts (who, what, when, where), how you learned about the issue, and any relevant documentation. It is better to raise a concern in good faith than to stay silent when something may be wrong.
What if my boss or other managers are involved in a violation? Won’t they get the report and start a cover-up?
Reports are handled through a controlled process and reviewed by designated personnel. Distribution is managed to help protect confidentiality and support an appropriate investigation and response. Investigations emphasize confidentiality and non-retaliation.
What if I remember something important about the incident after I file the report? Or what if the company has further questions for me concerning my report?
Use the report identifier and any login details provided at submission to return to the system, add information, and respond to follow-up questions. Timely follow-up helps the company assess and address the concern.
Are these follow-ups on reports as secure as the first one?
Yes. Follow-up communications are handled within the same controlled case management process and are treated with the same confidentiality principles.
Can I still file a report if I don’t have access to the Internet?
Telephone reporting is available in some locations. If telephone reporting is not available where you are, contact your local HR for alternative reporting options.