This prevents a panic reaction, Hamer thinks. “We see companies and organizations immediately panic when such a report is made and often don’t know what to do,” he told BNR. “That’s because they didn’t think about it or talk about it within the organization. And then very often they opt for an external expert, even if they don’t know what the best solution would be.’
“People often quickly opt for an external solution, even if they don’t know what the best solution is”
But that’s easier said than done, thinks Jan den Boon, chairman of the board of Medisch Spectrum Twente. He believes hospitals are high-risk institutions. “It’s a 24-hour company with a lot of reporting lines in terms of training,” he says. “And it’s also often exciting work.”
Accidents
And so there are accidents, says Den Boon, who also admits that more accidents are reported than talked about. “So we have a lot in order in terms of structure, but we’ve been emphasizing psychological safety lately,” continues Den Boon. ‘That people within the team also care about each other and can address questions and concerns to their direct colleagues, because there is often a fear of moving into higher management. I’m very sorry about that, and I want to work hard on it, but it still is.’
Social affairs minister Karien van Gennip calls Hamer’s leadership a step in the right direction that “puts things right”. In addition, he urges business owners to be prepared in case no reports of transgressive behavior are received. According to the minister, this should lead to closer scrutiny, because that also says something.