Interview Questions for Tobacco Sales Regulations

Federal and state tobacco regulations work together, but the federal government sets the minimum standards, while states can add their own, stricter rules. Think of it like a building code: the federal government dictates basic safety requirements, but a city might add rules about building height or specific materials.

For example, the federal government sets the minimum age for tobacco sales at 18, but some states have raised it to 21. Similarly, federal regulations cover advertising restrictions, but states can impose additional limitations on the placement or type of advertising. This means a retailer needs to be aware of *both* federal and their specific state’s regulations to ensure compliance.

• Federal: Focuses on broad standards, like minimum age, warning labels, and interstate commerce.
• State: Can impose stricter age limits, taxes, advertising restrictions, and local licensing requirements. They often reflect local public health priorities.

The process for obtaining a tobacco sales license varies by state, but generally involves several steps. Let’s imagine a typical scenario: First, you would need to apply through your state’s alcohol beverage control or revenue department. The application would require detailed information about your business, including location, ownership, and employee details. You’ll likely need to undergo a background check. Then, you’ll pay the application fee and potentially undergo an inspection of your premises to ensure compliance with state regulations, including secure storage for tobacco products and age verification systems.

Once approved, you’ll receive your license, which must be displayed prominently in your business. Failure to renew the license on time can result in penalties or revocation. Each state has its own online resources and forms; it’s crucial to check your state’s specific requirements.

Current restrictions on tobacco advertising and marketing are extensive and aim to reduce youth exposure and overall consumption. The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act of 2009 gave the FDA significant power to regulate these aspects. Key restrictions include:

• Bans on certain advertising methods: This includes advertising in youth-oriented media like cartoons or video games.
• Limitations on sponsorship: Sponsoring events attractive to youth is often prohibited.
• Restrictions on marketing claims: Manufacturers can’t make misleading claims about the health benefits or reduced harm of tobacco products.
• Plain packaging requirements: Some jurisdictions mandate standardized packaging with minimal branding and prominent health warnings.
• Point-of-sale restrictions: Restrictions on displays at retail locations are common.

Enforcement varies, but violations can lead to significant fines and legal action.

Tobacco excise taxes are levied on the wholesale price of tobacco products. The calculation usually involves a per-unit tax (e.g., per pack of cigarettes or per pound of chewing tobacco) combined with an ad valorem tax (a percentage of the wholesale price). The exact rates vary considerably by state and even by product type (cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, etc.).

Collection typically happens at the wholesale level. Distributors pay the tax to the relevant state tax authority before distributing the products to retailers. Retailers then include the tax in the price paid by consumers. States employ various methods for monitoring tax collection, including tracking sales data and conducting audits.

For example, a state might have a tax of $2 per pack of cigarettes plus a 10% ad valorem tax. If a distributor purchases a pack at $7 wholesale, the total tax would be $2 + ($7 * 0.10) = $2.70 per pack.

Tobacco product labeling and warning requirements are stringent and aim to inform consumers about the health risks associated with tobacco use. Federal regulations mandate graphic warning labels depicting the harmful consequences of smoking, along with text warnings about specific health risks. These labels must occupy a significant portion of the packaging.

Specific details of labeling requirements may vary slightly among states. In addition to the federally mandated warnings, some states require additional warnings or specific information on the packaging. For example, they may include details on cessation resources or local support programs.

Compliance with labeling regulations is crucial, as violations can lead to significant penalties.

The consequences of violating tobacco sales regulations can range from warnings and fines to license revocation and even criminal prosecution, depending on the severity and nature of the violation. Selling tobacco to minors, for instance, is a serious offense with potentially severe consequences.

• Fines: Vary widely by state and offense.
• License suspension or revocation: This can put a business out of operation.
• Criminal charges: Especially for repeat offenders or serious violations.
• Civil lawsuits: If a minor suffers harm due to illegal sales.

It’s essential for retailers to have robust compliance programs in place to avoid such penalties.

Ensuring compliance with age verification laws requires a multi-faceted approach. Retailers must implement and strictly enforce a policy of checking IDs for all individuals who appear to be under 30. This might involve using scanners that verify ID authenticity and age. Training employees is crucial; they need to be able to confidently and consistently identify fake IDs and refuse sales to minors.

Regular internal audits and mystery shopper programs can help identify weaknesses in the age verification process. It’s important to document all sales and to maintain accurate records for potential audits. Finally, promoting a culture of compliance within the business is vital; employees should understand the serious consequences of violating these laws.

My experience with tobacco inventory management and tracking systems spans over a decade. I’ve worked with various systems, from simple spreadsheets to sophisticated, integrated point-of-sale (POS) systems designed specifically for tobacco retailers. These systems are crucial for maintaining accurate records, ensuring compliance with age verification laws, and preventing diversion of products to the black market. A robust system typically includes features such as:

• Real-time inventory tracking: Provides up-to-the-minute counts of all tobacco products, helping to manage stock levels and prevent stockouts or overstocking.
• Automated ordering: Triggers automatic re-ordering when stock reaches a pre-determined level, streamlining the ordering process and reducing potential delays.
• Age verification integration: Seamlessly integrates with age verification systems, such as scanner-based ID checkers, to ensure compliance with laws prohibiting sales to minors. This often involves recording the ID scan and date of sale for future audit trails.
• Reporting and analytics: Generates comprehensive reports on sales trends, product performance, and compliance metrics, enabling data-driven decision-making and identifying potential compliance issues.
• Secure access controls: Restricts access to sensitive data based on user roles, ensuring data integrity and security.

For example, in a previous role, we implemented a new POS system that reduced our inventory discrepancies by 15% and streamlined our ordering process, saving us significant time and resources. This system also provided crucial data for our compliance reporting, making audits much smoother.

The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (FSPTCA) of 2009 significantly expanded the FDA’s authority over tobacco products. It granted the FDA the power to regulate the manufacture, distribution, and marketing of tobacco products, including cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and cigars. Key provisions of the Act include:

• Mandatory health warnings: Requires larger and more graphic health warnings on cigarette packages and advertisements.
• Restrictions on marketing and advertising: Prohibits certain forms of tobacco advertising and marketing, particularly those targeting youth.
• Regulation of ingredients: Gives the FDA authority to regulate the ingredients used in tobacco products and to require the disclosure of these ingredients.
• Regulation of novel tobacco products: Grants the FDA the authority to review and approve new tobacco products before they can be marketed, including e-cigarettes and other vaping products. This includes testing for harmful and potentially harmful constituents.
• Prohibition of sales to minors: Reinforces and clarifies the already existing prohibition against the sale of tobacco products to minors. This includes requirements for age verification.

The FSPTCA has fundamentally reshaped the tobacco landscape in the US, leading to significant changes in how tobacco products are manufactured, marketed, and sold. The Act’s impact continues to evolve as the FDA issues new regulations and guidance.

Suspected underage tobacco sales are treated with utmost seriousness. My approach is based on a combination of prevention and response measures. Prevention involves rigorous training for all sales staff on age verification procedures, utilizing ID scanners and questioning techniques to determine age.

When a suspected underage sale occurs, I follow these steps:

1. Immediate intervention: The suspected sale is immediately stopped, and the situation is assessed.
2. Age verification: The individual’s ID is carefully checked using a reliable age verification method, such as a scanner or other approved methods.
3. Documentation: A detailed record of the incident is created, including the date, time, location, description of the individual, type of tobacco product involved, the method of age verification used, and the outcome.
4. Internal review: The incident is reviewed internally to determine if any violations occurred and appropriate corrective actions are taken, which may include retraining of staff or disciplinary action.
5. Reporting: Depending on the circumstances, and local and state law, the incident might be reported to the relevant authorities (e.g., the FDA, state tobacco control agency, or law enforcement).

For example, in one instance, a sales associate failed to properly verify age. Through our internal review and retraining, we ensured that this did not happen again and re-emphasized the critical nature of compliance and penalties for non-compliance. We also reviewed our processes to minimize future occurrences.

The FDA’s role in regulating tobacco products is extensive and crucial for public health. Since the passage of the FSPTCA, the FDA has broad authority over tobacco products, including:

• Premarket review: The FDA reviews and approves new tobacco products before they can be marketed, including e-cigarettes and other vaping products.
• Regulation of ingredients: The FDA can regulate the ingredients used in tobacco products and require the disclosure of those ingredients.
• Manufacturing standards: The FDA sets manufacturing standards to ensure product quality and safety, such as testing for harmful or potentially harmful constituents.
• Marketing and advertising restrictions: The FDA enforces restrictions on tobacco advertising and marketing, especially those directed at youth.
• Enforcement: The FDA conducts inspections and investigations to ensure compliance with its regulations and takes enforcement actions against violators.

The FDA’s work is constantly evolving to address the changing landscape of tobacco products and emerging health concerns. Their regulations aim to protect public health by reducing tobacco use and its associated harms.

International tobacco regulations vary widely, reflecting differing public health priorities and legal frameworks. Many countries have implemented measures similar to those in the US, such as age restrictions, health warnings, and advertising bans. However, the stringency and specifics of these regulations vary greatly.

For example, some countries have much stricter advertising bans, prohibiting all forms of tobacco advertising, while others may have more limited restrictions. Similarly, the types of health warnings required and their graphic content can vary significantly. Some countries have implemented plain packaging requirements, removing all branding from tobacco packages.

Understanding these international differences is crucial for businesses involved in international tobacco trade. It requires staying abreast of the regulations in each relevant jurisdiction and ensuring compliance with local laws. This often involves working with local legal and regulatory experts.

Staying updated on changes in tobacco sales regulations is an ongoing process requiring a multi-faceted approach. I utilize several key strategies:

• Subscription to regulatory newsletters and publications: I subscribe to newsletters and publications from relevant organizations, such as the FDA, state tobacco control agencies, and international bodies such as the WHO.
• Monitoring of legislative updates: I track legislative developments related to tobacco regulations at both the federal and state levels. This may involve using legislative tracking services or directly monitoring government websites.
• Attendance at industry conferences and workshops: Participation in industry conferences and workshops offers valuable opportunities to network with other experts and learn about the latest regulatory changes.
• Engagement with legal counsel: Consulting with legal experts specializing in tobacco regulations provides critical insights and ensures up-to-date interpretations of complex rules.

By proactively following these methods, I ensure that my knowledge of tobacco regulations remains current and accurate, allowing for timely and effective compliance.

Ensuring compliance within a sales team requires a comprehensive and ongoing commitment. My strategies focus on a combination of training, monitoring, and accountability.

• Comprehensive training program: A robust training program is paramount. This involves comprehensive training on all relevant tobacco regulations, age verification procedures, proper record-keeping, and the potential consequences of non-compliance. This training is not a one-time event, but rather a continuous process with regular updates.
• Regular monitoring and audits: Regular monitoring and audits are conducted to evaluate compliance levels. This can involve reviewing sales records, conducting mystery shopper programs, and observing sales practices in the field. This approach provides valuable feedback and identifies areas for improvement.
• Clear accountability measures: Clear and consistent accountability measures are essential for maintaining compliance. This involves establishing clear expectations and consequences for non-compliance, fostering a culture of responsibility and adherence to regulations.
• Open communication and feedback mechanisms: Open communication and feedback mechanisms allow for questions, concerns, and suggestions to be addressed quickly and proactively. This creates a culture of collaboration and allows for issues to be resolved before they escalate.

By employing these methods, we build a strong culture of compliance, minimizing the risk of violations and protecting the reputation of the organization while upholding public health.

Addressing discrepancies in tobacco sales reporting requires a systematic approach. First, I’d identify the nature of the discrepancy – is it a difference between physical inventory and sales records, a mismatch between reported sales and tax payments, or perhaps an issue with data entry? Once identified, I’d meticulously trace the sales records, checking for potential errors in data input, inventory management, or accounting processes. This might involve comparing sales receipts with delivery notes and verifying inventory counts.

For example, if there’s a significant shortfall in reported sales compared to the physical inventory, I’d investigate possibilities such as theft, unrecorded sales, or inaccurate inventory tracking. I’d then implement corrective actions, which could include retraining staff on proper inventory management and sales reporting procedures, strengthening security measures to prevent theft, and upgrading the sales reporting software to improve accuracy and reduce human error. Finally, I would document the entire process and implement measures to prevent future discrepancies.

A robust reconciliation process, potentially involving regular audits and spot checks, is crucial in preventing and identifying these discrepancies early on. This ensures compliance with regulations and maintains the integrity of the sales reporting system.

My experience with tobacco product recalls involves a multi-faceted approach that prioritizes consumer safety and regulatory compliance. I’ve been involved in recalls initiated due to manufacturing defects, such as contamination or inconsistencies in product composition. The process begins with a thorough investigation to verify the scope of the problem and identify the affected products. We’d then work with the relevant regulatory bodies, like the FDA in the US, to ensure transparent and timely communication about the recall. This includes notifying distributors, retailers, and the public through various channels, such as press releases, website updates, and direct consumer outreach.

For example, in a recall involving a specific batch of cigarettes due to a potential health risk, we would immediately halt distribution, trace the affected products through our supply chain, and work with retailers to remove them from shelves. We’d also establish a system to manage consumer inquiries and return requests, ensuring customers receive refunds or replacements as needed. Thorough documentation of the entire process is crucial for compliance and future reference. Post-recall, we would implement corrective actions to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future, potentially modifying manufacturing processes or enhancing quality control measures.

My familiarity with tobacco products and their regulations encompasses a wide range, including cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, snuff, pipe tobacco, and increasingly, e-cigarettes and vaping products. Each product category falls under specific regulatory frameworks, dictating requirements related to manufacturing, packaging, labeling, advertising, and sales restrictions.

For instance, cigarettes are subject to stringent regulations concerning tar and nicotine content reporting, health warnings on packaging, and restrictions on advertising. E-cigarettes, on the other hand, face a more evolving regulatory landscape, with rules concerning nicotine strength, flavorings, and minimum sales age. I understand the nuances within these regulations, including those related to the sale to minors, which is universally prohibited, and the requirements for age verification and appropriate point-of-sale signage.

• Cigarettes: Strict regulations on tar and nicotine content, health warnings, advertising restrictions.
• Cigars: Regulations around manufacturing, labeling, and sales to minors.
• Chewing Tobacco/Snuff: Specific labeling requirements, potentially including warnings about oral health risks.
• E-cigarettes/Vaping Products: Regulations on nicotine strength, flavorings, sales to minors, and advertising.

Keeping abreast of these evolving regulations is vital to ensure compliance and responsible sales practices.

Handling customer inquiries about tobacco regulations requires patience, accuracy, and a clear understanding of the applicable laws. I approach each inquiry with a focus on providing accurate and concise information tailored to the customer’s specific question. I would start by actively listening to their concerns and clarify their understanding. If the question relates to a specific regulation, I’d direct them to the appropriate source, such as the relevant government agency website or published regulations. For more complex inquiries, I’d provide a clear explanation, using simple language and avoiding technical jargon.

For example, if a customer inquires about the legal smoking age, I’d clearly state the age and refer them to the official source of this information. If they ask about specific health warnings, I’d explain what the warnings are and what they imply. If a question falls outside my knowledge area, I wouldn’t hesitate to admit it and direct the customer to the appropriate expert or authority.

Maintaining a respectful and helpful attitude is crucial. By doing so, I build trust and demonstrate a commitment to ethical and transparent customer service.

The Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) is a landmark agreement reached in 1998 between several states and major tobacco companies. It resolved a series of lawsuits against tobacco companies, primarily alleging fraudulent concealment of the health risks associated with smoking. The MSA is not a single, monolithic document but rather a series of individual state agreements.

Key aspects of the MSA include substantial payments to participating states over a period of years, restrictions on tobacco advertising and marketing practices (particularly aimed at youth), and ongoing reporting requirements from tobacco companies. The funds received by states are typically earmarked for healthcare initiatives and anti-smoking campaigns. The MSA significantly shaped the landscape of tobacco control in the United States, influencing regulations and public health policy.

Understanding the MSA is crucial for anyone working in tobacco sales because it shapes the regulatory environment. Compliance with the MSA’s restrictions on advertising and marketing practices is non-negotiable.

My experience with tobacco tax stamps and their verification involves ensuring that all tobacco products sold carry valid and correctly affixed stamps. This is essential for compliance with state and local tax regulations. The process usually begins by checking the physical stamps for authenticity; I would be familiar with the various security features implemented to prevent counterfeiting. This could include holographic designs, special inks, or unique serial numbers.

I’d utilize electronic verification systems, where available, to confirm the authenticity and validity of stamps by matching the serial numbers and product information. Any discrepancies would trigger an immediate investigation to identify the source of the problem, whether it’s a genuine error or potentially fraudulent activity. For example, a missing or damaged stamp would indicate a potential regulatory violation. Similarly, discrepancies in reporting between physical stamps and sales records would be investigated thoroughly.

Efficient management of tobacco tax stamps and verification is paramount for legal compliance and responsible business operations.

Managing potential conflicts of interest in tobacco sales involves maintaining strict adherence to ethical standards and legal requirements. Conflicts could arise from various sources, such as personal relationships with distributors or incentives that might compromise objective decision-making. Transparency and disclosure are key to mitigating these risks.

For example, I would promptly disclose any personal relationships that could potentially influence my decisions regarding product selection, pricing, or sales practices. Similarly, I’d avoid accepting gifts or favors from distributors that could be seen as influencing my objectivity. Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations is paramount. This includes being fully aware of and complying with any guidelines regarding bribery, corruption, or unethical business practices.

In addition, adhering to company policies on ethical conduct and conflict of interest management is equally important. A commitment to ethical sales practices safeguards the integrity of the business and maintains trust with stakeholders.

Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations concerning tobacco waste is crucial for responsible business practices and environmental protection. This involves understanding and adhering to local, regional, and national laws regarding the disposal of cigarette butts, packaging materials, and other tobacco-related refuse.

• Proper Waste Segregation: Implementing a system to separate tobacco waste from other recyclables and general waste is essential. This often involves clearly labeled bins and employee training on proper waste sorting.
• Designated Disposal Areas: Providing designated, covered receptacles for cigarette butts is vital to prevent littering and ensure proper disposal. These should be regularly emptied and cleaned.
• Recycling and Composting: Exploring options for recycling or composting appropriate waste materials, such as cardboard packaging, can significantly reduce environmental impact.
• Hazardous Waste Management: Some tobacco products or manufacturing processes might generate hazardous waste. In such cases, strict adherence to regulations for handling and disposing of these materials is paramount. This includes working with licensed hazardous waste contractors.
• Record Keeping: Maintaining detailed records of waste generation, disposal methods, and contractor information is crucial for demonstrating compliance during audits.

For instance, in a retail setting, I would ensure each store has clearly marked receptacles for cigarette butts and regularly scheduled cleanup. For a manufacturing facility, it would involve implementing a comprehensive waste management plan including contracts with certified waste disposal companies for hazardous waste components.

Training employees on tobacco sales regulations is a continuous process. My approach is multi-faceted and focuses on both initial onboarding and ongoing reinforcement.

• Comprehensive Training Modules: I develop and deliver engaging training materials covering all relevant federal, state, and local regulations. These modules use a variety of formats—videos, interactive exercises, and case studies—to cater to different learning styles.
• Age Verification Procedures: A significant portion of the training focuses on the strict procedures for verifying the age of customers. This includes detailed instruction on the use of identification documents, how to spot fake IDs, and the consequences of selling to minors.
• Point-of-Sale Systems and Reporting: We integrate training on the accurate use of point-of-sale (POS) systems to ensure accurate sales tracking and reporting, crucial for compliance audits.
• Regular Refresher Courses: Laws and regulations frequently evolve; therefore, regular refresher courses, often delivered as short online modules or workshops, are essential to keep employees up-to-date.
• Testing and Assessment: To ensure understanding and retention, we implement regular testing and quizzes to assess employee knowledge. This provides opportunities for clarification and reinforcement.

For example, I recently implemented a gamified online training program for a large retail chain. This led to a significant improvement in employee knowledge and confidence in handling age verification and compliance procedures.

I have extensive experience with tobacco sales compliance audits. My approach is proactive and collaborative.

• Pre-Audit Preparation: Before an audit, I meticulously review all sales records, inventory reports, employee training documentation, and environmental compliance records. This helps to identify and rectify any potential issues before the auditor arrives.
• Full Transparency and Cooperation: I ensure full cooperation with the auditors, providing them with immediate and unfettered access to all necessary documents and personnel.
• Corrective Action Plans: If any compliance gaps are identified, I work promptly to develop and implement corrective action plans, clearly outlining the steps taken to address the issues.
• Post-Audit Follow-Up: After the audit, I thoroughly review the audit report, implement any recommendations, and document all corrective actions. This ensures continuous improvement in compliance practices.
• Data-Driven Improvements: I utilize the audit findings to identify trends and areas for improvement. This allows for a data-driven approach to enhance the overall compliance program.

In one instance, a pre-audit review revealed a minor discrepancy in our age verification documentation. By proactively addressing this minor issue, we avoided any significant findings during the actual audit, demonstrating the importance of meticulous preparation.

I am very familiar with the evolving regulations surrounding e-cigarettes and vaping products. These products are subject to a complex and rapidly changing regulatory landscape, often differing significantly from traditional tobacco products.

• Age Restrictions: The sale of e-cigarettes and vaping products is subject to the same age restrictions as traditional tobacco products, requiring strict age verification procedures.
• Flavor Restrictions: Many jurisdictions have implemented restrictions or outright bans on certain flavors, particularly those appealing to minors.
• Product Packaging and Labeling: Regulations concerning product packaging and labeling are similarly stringent, requiring specific health warnings and details regarding nicotine content.
• Online Sales: The sale of e-cigarettes and vaping products online is subject to its own set of specific regulations, requiring verification of age and shipping restrictions.
• Taxation: E-cigarettes and vaping products are subject to various taxes, depending on the jurisdiction, adding complexity to sales transactions and record-keeping.

Staying abreast of these dynamic regulations requires continuous monitoring of legislative changes and industry best practices. I regularly consult with legal counsel and industry associations to remain informed about the latest developments.

Assessing the risk of non-compliance in a tobacco sales operation requires a systematic and thorough approach.

• Gap Analysis: Comparing current practices against all relevant regulations and industry best practices is the first step. This identifies potential weaknesses or areas of non-compliance.
• Employee Training and Knowledge: Evaluating the effectiveness of employee training programs and their understanding of regulations is crucial. Gaps in knowledge translate directly into a higher risk of non-compliance.
• Internal Controls: Assessing the strength of internal controls, such as age verification processes, inventory management systems, and sales record-keeping, helps identify vulnerabilities.
• Sales Data Analysis: Analyzing sales data can reveal patterns that might indicate non-compliance, such as unusually high sales to young adults.
• Supplier Compliance: Ensuring that suppliers comply with all relevant regulations is also crucial to mitigate risk.

For example, a high rate of failed age verification checks, coupled with a lack of employee training on spotting fake IDs, signals a significant risk of non-compliance. Implementing improved training and stricter ID verification protocols would address this issue.

Implementing new tobacco sales regulations requires careful planning and execution. My approach involves:

• Thorough Review of Regulations: I begin by thoroughly reviewing the new regulations to understand their scope, implications, and requirements.
• Impact Assessment: I assess the impact of the new regulations on existing operations, identifying any necessary changes to processes, systems, or employee training.
• Policy and Procedure Updates: I revise company policies and procedures to reflect the new regulations, ensuring that all staff understand their responsibilities.
• Employee Training and Communication: I develop and deliver comprehensive training programs to educate employees on the new regulations and procedures. This also includes clear and consistent communication through multiple channels.
• System Updates: I ensure that all relevant systems, such as point-of-sale systems and inventory management systems, are updated to comply with the new regulations.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: I establish a system for monitoring compliance with the new regulations and evaluating the effectiveness of the implementation plan.

For instance, when new flavor restrictions were implemented, we revised our inventory management system to exclude affected products and updated employee training materials to reflect the changes.

Contributing to a culture of compliance in a tobacco sales environment requires a multifaceted approach.

• Leadership Commitment: It starts with visible and unwavering commitment from leadership, demonstrating that compliance is not just a priority but a core value.
• Open Communication: Creating an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting potential compliance issues without fear of reprisal is essential.
• Incentivizing Compliance: Recognizing and rewarding employees who consistently demonstrate compliance strengthens the culture.
• Regular Compliance Audits: Conducting regular internal audits helps to identify and address potential problems early, fostering continuous improvement.
• Continuous Training: Ongoing training and reinforcement remind employees of their responsibilities and keep them updated on evolving regulations.

By fostering a culture of accountability and responsibility, we minimize the risk of non-compliance and create a workplace where everyone is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards.