Code of Conduct

IAFN is committed to maintaining an inclusive, safe, and respectful environment. IAFN will not tolerate any behavior that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. This applies not only for our members and staff, but for everyone with whom we engage. This Code of Conduct outlines IAFN’s expectations and governs interactions with, or between members, vendors, staff, guests, and anyone who does business with IAFN, whether at IAFN-hosted events, interactions prompted by our events, or online. For more information specific to our online community, see our Community Guidelines.

By becoming a member of IAFN, providing services or products to IAFN, or by attending an event or participating in any IAFN activity, you agree to adhere to this Code of Conduct. This Code of Conduct is subject to periodic review and may be updated as needed to reflect the evolving needs and values of IAFN. You agree to comply with the most current publicly available version of this Code of Conduct.

Behavior: We expect you to treat one another with respect, courtesy, and professionalism. IAFN has a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment of any kind, including bullying, offensive language, inappropriate gestures, acts of violence, or any other form of harassment. We also require that you refrain from any disruptive behavior that, although not targeted at any individual specifically, undermines our constructive and inclusive environment. In digital interactions, carefully consider the potential impact of sharing sensitive or triggering content. Be mindful of cultural differences and diverse perspectives. Treat others with respect.

Diversity: We value diversity, equity, and belonging in all that we do. We seek to celebrate the contributions of all people – regardless of race, color, ethnicity, sex, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), socioeconomic status, religion, creed, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or intellectual disabilities, military and veteran status, genetic information, medical condition, sexual orientation, or any other protected class, characteristic, or consideration. We expect you to value and celebrate the contributions of all people as well.

Alcohol and Substance Use: We expect you to consume alcohol and legal substances responsibly. Anyone found to be impaired or acting inappropriately as a result may be asked to leave.

Compliance and Ethics: We expect you to adhere to all applicable laws and regulations. Any engagement in illegal activities, including discrimination or harassment based on a protected class or characteristic, is strictly prohibited. Further, we expect you to conduct yourselves with honesty and integrity. Avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential conflicts that may arise during IAFN events, meetings, discussions, or other activities.

Confidentiality and Resources: We expect you to respect the confidentiality and intellectual property of others and to use IAFN resources responsibly and for the benefit of IAFN and its mission. Do not use or disclose confidential information without proper authorization. Unauthorized use of resources or activities that may harm IAFN’s reputation are not allowed.

Public Representation: While we welcome members into this community, we expect you to represent only your personal views publicly and not act or characterize that you are representing IAFN, its community, staff, or IAFN’s Board of Directors. We expect you to avoid making misleading statements or misrepresentations, whether intentional or otherwise, and to take prompt and full action to rectify any inaccurate or overly broad statements. Speak only on your own behalf unless you have express authorization from IAFN to speak on behalf of the organization.

Reporting Violations: See something, say something! We ask you to report any suspected violations of this Code of Conduct promptly to reporting@forensicnurses.org. IAFN is committed to investigating and addressing reported violations and will maintain confidentiality and reporters’ anonymity as best as possible. IAFN reserves the right to take any action it deems necessary and appropriate in response to a suspected violation, including immediate removal from an event without warning or refund, removal from our membership or from our online platforms, and IAFN reserves the right to prohibit attendance at future events.

Disciplinary Procedures: Upon receipt of a report of a possible violation of this Code of Conduct, the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors will promptly initiate an investigation. Depending on the circumstances, the Executive Committee may delegate its investigatory responsibility to a third-party investigator or other designee. Members have a duty to cooperate with and participate in an investigation into any reported violation of this Code when asked by IAFN, to do so in good faith, and to provide complete and truthful information to IAFN. During the investigation, IAFN will involve only those deemed necessary to the investigation, and disclosures will only be made on an as-needed basis. Any disclosure to those without a need to know or other breach of confidentiality will generally be deemed to be a violation of this Code and subject to disciplinary action.

If it is determined that the investigation substantiates that a violation of this Code has occurred, the Executive Committee will make recommendations regarding any disciplinary action to the full Board of Directors. Any disciplinary actions will be communicated to IAFN’s leadership team, and if necessary, IAFN’s legal counsel. IAFN reserves the right to take any necessary and appropriate action against a member who engages in any violation of this Code, up to and including expulsion from the membership.

IAFN strictly prohibits all individuals from retaliating against any person who in good faith reports, or participates in the investigation of possible violations of this Code.

To the greatest extent allowed by law, IAFN is not and will not be held responsible for any member’s alleged violation of this Code or otherwise inappropriate or unlawful act.