1. Purpose

VZ Lines LTD, VZ Lines Motoring school & Institute (MFHEA Licence Number: 2024-013) is committed to maintaining a workplace in which every employee, trainee, instructor, contractor, customer and other person dealing with the Institution is treated with dignity, respect and professionalism.

VZ Lines operates a strict ZERO-TOLERANCE policy towards harassment, bullying, intimidation, abuse, violence and threatening or degrading behaviour.

2. Prohibited Conduct

Harassment or abuse of any kind is prohibited, whether occurring at VZ Lines’ premises, during driving lessons or training, in vehicles, at work-related events, through telephone or electronic communications, or in any other situation connected with VZ Lines.

Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:

Conduct may constitute a breach of this Policy even where it occurs only once and regardless of whether the person responsible intended to cause offence.

3. Reporting

Any person who experiences, witnesses or becomes aware of conduct which may breach this Policy is encouraged to report it promptly to Management or the designated person responsible for complaints.

Reports will be treated seriously, handled as confidentially as reasonably practicable, and investigated fairly and without unnecessary delay.

4. Protection from Retaliation

VZ Lines strictly prohibits retaliation, victimisation or adverse treatment against any person who, in good faith, raises a concern, makes a complaint, assists an investigation or refuses to participate in prohibited conduct.

5. Disciplinary Action

Any substantiated breach of this Policy will be treated seriously and may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or engagement, subject to applicable law and the appropriate procedure.

Where conduct may constitute a criminal offence, VZ Lines reserves the right to refer the matter to the relevant authorities.

6. Management Responsibility

Management has a duty to take complaints seriously, act promptly and take reasonable measures to maintain a safe, respectful and professional environment.

There is no acceptable level of abuse at VZ Lines. Abuse, harassment, bullying, intimidation or violence will not be excused, normalised or tolerated.

This Policy shall be read in conjunction with applicable Maltese legislation and VZ Lines’ other employment policies and procedures.