Code of Conduct
According to Wikipedia a Code of Conduct can be described as – “rules outlining the responsibilities of, or proper practices for, an individual or organization.” In 2007 the International Federation of Accountants provided the following definition: “Principals, values, standards, or rules of behaviour that guide the decisions, procedures and systems of an organization in a way that (a) contributes to the welfare of its key stakeholders, and (b) respects the rights of all constituents affected by its operations.”
The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) acts as a promoter of short-term insurance companies in South Africa, which includes car insurance companies. SAIA has issued a code of conduct for all its members, it is called the “Code of Good Business Practice.” All members are required to adhere to the code which lists as part of its objectives the promotion of high ethical standards within the industry; the promotion of customer satisfaction and a dispute resolution mechanism.
It sets out requirements for its members referring to, amongst other things – acting in good faith, complying with legislation, respecting the privacy of their clients’ information and promoting the general public’s understanding of the industry. It also deals with the disclosures that have to be made to prospective clients, claims handling and claims rejection procedures and also disciplinary processes. A copy of the full code of good business practices can be obtained at the SAIA website at www.saia.co.za.