The TNO code
We value our good name and reputation as an organization for applied research. Guided by our mission and values, we are committed to finding answers to today’s societal challenges. The TNO Code reflects what we collectively stand for and serves as a guide for our attitude and actions as employees and executives.
Values in the TNO Code
Our core values are Pushing Boundaries, Entrepreneurial, Collaborative, Integrity, and Independence. They are embedded in our daily practice and provide direction in how we pursue our mission and strategy. These values are set out in the TNO Code (pdf).
Scientific integrity
We are also committed to the Netherlands Code of Conduct for Research Integrity (NGWI). The NGWI sets out principles, standards, and institutional duties of care for scientific research. The TNO Code makes direct reference to the NGWI.
What if something goes wrong
Of course, things can occasionally go wrong. Our Regulations governing the suspicion of wrongdoing (pdf, 286 kB) describe how reports of suspected misconduct are handled. There is also an External complaints procedure (pdf, 102 kB). An overview of the difference between these regulations and the process of the Regulations governing the suspicion of wrongdoing can be found here (pdf, 326 kB).
Reports under the Regulations Governing the Suspicion of Wrongdoing can be reported to the Integrity Reporting Center, as well as to external bodies as mentioned in the abovementioned Regulations under 1.4. Reporting anonymously is also possible through TNO's central confidential counselor. Naturally, once a report has been made, the protection of the reporting person against detriment is of great importance, ensuring that no adverse consequences result from coming forward. The TNO Code describes all options for addressing questions, dilemmas, and incidents in the chapter on how we keep the TNO Code alive.
Employees’ ancillary activities
We have an ancillary activies policy, which is included in TNO’s Terms and Conditions of Employment and which is also referenced to in the TNO Code. The principle is that ancillary activities must not conflict with the interests of TNO as an organization. As part of this policy, employees are required to regularly declare their ancillary activities. Their manager(s) must grant approval for such activities, and may - in consultation - impose additional conditions or withdraw previously granted approval.