Template Code of Conduct & Complaints Process
We launched the APA template Code of Conduct and Complaints Process and here it is for our members to adopt as their own.
If any APA members wish to do so, please read it and add your company logo in the space provided. You can do this by adding your logo on pages 1 and 2 using the placeholder icon – which is visible only once you download the file – and then your logo will populate throughout the document. You will then have a Code of Conduct and Complaints Process. Please note this Code & Process does not apply to your business automatically- you need to adopt it.
Production Code of Conduct Initiative
The Code & Process is put into practice through the APA / IPA / ISBA Initiative and Appendix templates, which are aimed at fostering a safe and respectful working environment within our industry.
The Appendix templates reference the Code of Conduct and inform any persons you are working with that they must adhere to it.
The Appendix contains templates for the following:
-PPM documents
-Production Conduct Initiative actions for call sheets
-Text for PIBS Section J (Additional Contractual Requirements)
For editing, post, audio and music companies, you can reference the Code and this Initiative in your quote or any contractual document.
The APA, the IPA and ISBA encourage the use of this Initiative, so when you are working with agencies and advertisers you should incorporate the Code of Conduct using the Appendix templates.
You can use the Code of Conduct on its own, or along with any processes and policies you already have in place.
Why Do You Need a Code of Conduct?
Most people know how to behave toward other people they work with but some don’t and by telling them and making complying with the Code of Conduct a condition of engagement, the prospect of someone behaving inappropriately on your shoot or at your studio or office are reduced.
While we hope that having a Code of Conduct will reduce incidences of inappropriate behaviour it will not eliminate them. So having a Complaints Process is critical in dealing with complaints efficiently and fairly. With the Complaints Process, complaints- of inappropriate sexual behaviour or racism, for example, will still be difficult to deal with but the Process ensures that you can deal with a complaint fairly and with a structure for doing so. Without a complaints process, a business is often overwhelmed in seeking to deal with the allegations, to the detriment of the business and the complainant and the person accused- so not having a complaints process does everyone a disservice.
If you have any questions about the Code of Conduct or the Initiative, or- more likely- want our assistance if there is a complaint as to a breach of the Code, we will help you with the implementation of it and the Complaints Process. If needed, we will also provide you with additional resources to support you throughout any challenging situations which may arise.