Safeguarding means doing everything possible to prevent harm or abuse before it happens, including physical, sexual and emotional abuse, neglect, trafficking and exploitation. 

Safeguarding also refers to the actions that must be taken when there is a concern that someone may be at risk or is experiencing harm or abuse.

It is therefore about both prevention and response, and everyone has a role to play in creating environments where individuals feel safe, respected and supported.

Two-minute essentials

• Prioritise the safety and wellbeing of athletes and participants

• Recognise and respond to appropriately to signs of harm, abuse, or inappropriate behaviour, whether physical, emotional or sexual

• Follow safeguarding procedures and escalate concerns promptly

• Maintain appropriate boundaries in all professional interactions

• Report concerns through official safeguarding channels - you do not need proof

Report a concern and get support

If you have a concern about safeguarding, ethics, or clean sport, you can report it through FIS’s official channels.

FIS has established a sports integrity partnership with Global Sports Investigations (GSI), which operates the external Integrity Hotline independently.

• Online: https://fis-integrityunit.integrityline.com/

• Phone: +44 (0)207 034 3403

• Email: FIS@email-fis.integrityline.com

Reports submitted through the Integrity Hotline are handled confidentially and with care. Information is only shared where necessary to assess the concern, protect individuals, or ensure fair and appropriate handling. 

You do not need to be certain before reporting. If you are unsure, you are encouraged to seek advice or raise a concern.

To contact the FIS Safeguarding Officer directly, please email fussek@fis-ski.com. Please note communication via this channel is not anonymous.

Frequently asked questions

(last updated, May 2026)

1) What should I do if I am not sure whether something is a safeguarding concern?

You are not expected to make a judgement or investigate. If something does not feel right, you are encouraged to report the concern or seek advice.

• Concerns can be raised even if you are unsure

• A red flag is enough to report

• It is better to report early than wait

• All reports are assessed in line with established procedures

2) What happens after I report a concern?

Reports are reviewed and assessed in line with FIS safeguarding procedures.

• Information is handled confidentially and shared only where necessary

• Appropriate steps are taken to ensure safety, fairness and due process

• Temporary safeguarding actions may be put in place if needed

• You may not receive full updates due to confidentiality requirements and date protection rules

3) Will my identity be kept confidential?

FIS aims to respect confidentiality wherever possible.

• Information is only shared on a need-to-know basis; only with those responsible for managing the safeguarding response

• In some situations, information may need to be shared to protect individuals or follow legal or procedural obligations

• Independent and anonymous reporting channels are available

4) Can I report a concern about someone else?

Yes. Safeguarding concerns can be raised about any individual, including concerns affecting others.

• You do not need to be directly involved

• You do not need confirmation from others

• Concerns should be reported in good faith

• Early reporting helps prevent harm and escalation

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility.

5) What types of behavior should be reported?

This includes any behaviour that causes harm or creates a risk of harm.

Examples include, but is not limited to: 

• Abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual)

• Harassment or bullying (including online)

• Boundary violations or inappropriate behaviour

• Neglect or unsafe environments

• Abuse of authority, intimidation, or retaliation pressure

Culture, tradition or “that’s how it is in this sport” is never a justification for harm.

6) What should I do if someone is in immediate danger?

If there is an immediate risk to safety:

• Contact local emergency services immediately

• Then report the concern through FIS channels

7) Do I need evidence before reporting?

No.

• You are not responsible for investigating

• Share what you saw, heard or were told

• Reports are assessed by appropriate safeguarding experts

Your role is to report facts, not to prove intent or harm.

9) How does FIS support a safe environment?

FIS aims to promote safe sport through:

• Clear policies and standards (including Snow Safe Policy)

• Education and awareness

• Reporting and response mechanisms

• Professional safeguarding leadership

• Ongoing review and improvement

Most used resources

• FIS Snow Safe Policy (PDF)

• Safeguarding Guidance for NSAs

• Code of Ethics

• Safeguarding Training Materials

Safeguarding Training Materials

• Link to IOC Course in Safeguarding Athletes from Harassment and Abuse

• Link to free online safeguarding courses by Safe Sport International