Wrong doing by businesses, governments and companies could go virtually unnoticed without the vigilance of whistle blowers. When an employee, current or former, has knowledge that a company or its officials, usually those in positions of authority, is involved in an impropriety, the employee can report this misconduct to a person or body that has the power to investigate and take action. Many countries, including Canada and the United States have laws in place that protect whistle blowers from retaliation.

You may work in a company that has policies in place regarding the protection of whistle blowers. Where these policies are present, there are explicit rules relating to the reporting, disclosure, protection and responsibilities of the reporter. Responsibility is key. If you make a false report about someone or an organization, you could be facing serious consequences. It is imperative, therefore, that you are honest and transparent when undertaking the burdensome task of whistle blowing.

Because there are laws protecting whistle blowers who have acted in good faith, anyone feeling that they have been fired as a result of reporting wrong doing, should follow the rules laid down in their particular country or organization for issuing a complaint. Pay special attention to the deadline for filing your complaint as many regulations on whistle blowing protection include time limits within which you can appeal. It is therefore important to research your company's state, province or country's regulations carefully.

Even though there is protection in place in certain countries and companies, the company you work for may have no such protection. However, you should still make a complaint if you are convinced you are a victim of retaliation, to the body or person you made the complaint to in the first place. Check your community and legal resources for support groups or legal defense groups, human rights organizations or labor board, willing to support your cause. If in your case you are covered by protection for whistle blowers, ensure you gather all the evidence necessary to prove your allegation and follow your internal requirements for presenting your case.

Being fired for whistle blowing is a discriminatory act and considered as bullying behavior on the part of the offending employer. As a whistle blower, you may be viewed as a snitch or a hero. If your whistle blowing uncovers and proves a wrong doing, it is hardly likely you will be fired for your actions. But whether or not the accusations are irrefutable, provided that they were communicated in good faith, you must do all that is necessary to ensure that you do not become a victim for doing the ethical thing.

Learn more about this author, Joan Schroeder.
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