What is Open Channel?
Open Channel is a communication tool for dealing with issues involving non-compliance with Usiminas' Code of Ethics and Conduct, acts harmful to the institution and non-compliance with legislation and Internal regulations. It is intended for internal and external audiences and is managed by Contato Seguro, which acts in a transparent, independent and impartial manner.
What can be reported through Open Channel?
Acts of fraud, corruption, bribery, harassment, misconduct, theft, etc., and other practices in disagreement with the ethical principles established in Usiminas' Code of Ethics and Conduct.
Who can use the tool?
It can be used by the people with whom the company interacts - employees, managers, customers, suppliers, investors, government, community, press and other sectors of organized civil society.
If I want to report corrupt activities, does Usiminas have a policy for consultation?
Yes. Usiminas has clear information regarding the Anti-Corruption Policy and other irregularities provided for in Law 12.846/2013.
Is there a limit on the number of reports per person?
There shall be no limit on the number of reports a person can send, but it is important that they are in accordance with the purpose of Open Channel.
Is it possible to report anonymously?
Yes. The identification of the complainant is optional. All information received is treated confidentially.
Who will be responsible for managing the complaints?
Complaints are received by Contato Seguro and managed by the Integrity Department, which will determine the methodology of investigation according to the complexity of the issue.
In which means users can make complaints?
The following means of communication are available to make a complaint: Internet (Intranet and Usiminas website), app (smartphone and tablet) and phone 0800 900 9093 (toll free).
Is it possible to follow the progress of the investigation of the complaint?
Yes. When making a complaint you will receive a protocol number that can be used to track the progress of your complaint through the site https://www.contatoseguro.com.br/usiminas. When entering the site, select the option: "Open Channel" and then "Follow your report" where you will be asked to enter the protocol number.
The status of the complaints are classified as: "Registered", "Under Investigation", “Completed” or "Disqualified".
Occasionally the Integrity Department may contact you to request additional information through messages that can be accessed only with this protocol and your contribution will be of utmost importance. Stay tuned to the progress of your protocol.
How long can it take for a complaint to be investigated?
Each complaint has a particular requirement or investigation effort. Therefore, there is no set timeframe for the investigation. It is intended to have quick investigations, with eventual intermediary reports to the complainant.
What criteria define a disqualified complaint?
A complaint may only be confirmed after it has been investigated. However, complaints without the informed message or with objectives other than the purpose established by Open Channel will be considered disqualified by the Integrity Department or those with missing information.
Is there any kind of punishment for complainants?
No. The objective of Open Channel is to facilitate the identification of irregularities that are in disagreement with the Code of Ethics and Conduct of Usiminas Companies. The identification of the complainant is optional. There are no punishments applied to complaints made in "good faith".
Does Open Channel provide all the guarantees for the protection of the complaints made by complainants?
Yes. All information is confidential and the anonymity of complainants is preserved. Usiminas Companies do not tolerate reprisals against complaints submitted in good faith. On the other hand, false accusations or untruthful information intended to harm third parties constitute a breach of the Company's Code of Ethics and Conduct.
Depending on the severity of the complaint, can the identity of the complainant be revealed?
No. All information is confidential and the anonymity of complainants is preserved. Usiminas Companies encourages the reporting of all the issues described above and assures that it does not tolerate reprisals against complaints submitted in good faith. On the other hand, false accusations or untruthful information intended to harm third parties constitute a breach of the Company's Code of Ethics and Conduct.
How do we protect your data?
Please access the protection guidelines here.
How to properly report complaints?
In the links below, essential information was gathered to make the report properly. Be sure to access!
Booklet: How to report on the Open Channel of Usiminas Companies?
Video: How to report on the Open Channel of Usiminas Companies.