Trauma Association of Canada (TAC)

Code of Conduct for Meetings

Guidelines for fostering an inclusive, respectful, and productive environment in all TAC meetings.

Meetings & Conduct

Purpose

This code of conduct establishes guidelines for the conduct of meetings of the Trauma Association of
Canada (TAC), fostering an inclusive, respectful, and productive environment for all participants.

All TAC members and attendees are expected to uphold the professional and educational purposes of
meetings by respecting the rights, privacy, safety, and dignity of all persons.

This Code applies to all TAC meetings and related activities, whether held in person, virtually,
or in a hybrid format.
  1. Respect & Inclusivity
    • Treat all meeting participants with respect and courtesy.
    • Embrace and celebrate diversity of thought, opinion, and background.
    • Avoid discriminatory language, gestures, or behaviour.
  2. Active Listening
    • Listen attentively to others and avoid interrupting while someone else is speaking.
    • Allow each participant to express their views without judgment.
    • Consider diverse perspectives and seek to understand different opinions.
  3. Constructive Communication
    • Express thoughts and opinions in a clear and constructive manner.
    • Use professional language and avoid offensive or inflammatory remarks.
    • Focus on the issues at hand rather than personal attacks.
  4. Time Management
    • Adhere to the allocated time for each agenda item.
    • Be mindful of other participants’ time and avoid unnecessary prolongation of discussions.
    • If a topic requires additional discussion, propose a specific plan for follow-up.
  5. Decision Making
    • Participate actively in decision-making processes.
    • Respect the outcome of collective decisions, even if they differ from individual preferences.
    • Encourage open dialogue but defer to the established decision-making procedures.
  6. Confidentiality
    • Respect the confidentiality of sensitive information discussed during meetings.
    • Refrain from disclosing confidential information outside the designated group.
  7. Accountability
    • Take responsibility for assigned tasks and deadlines.
    • Communicate any challenges or obstacles that may affect commitments.
    • Collaborate with others to achieve common goals.
  8. Orderly Conduct
    • Follow the meeting agenda and adhere to established meeting protocols.
    • Raise hands or use designated methods to indicate a desire to speak.
    • Avoid side conversations and distractions during discussions.
  9. Resolution of Conflicts
    • Address conflicts respectfully and seek resolution through open communication.
    • Utilize established grievance procedures* if conflicts cannot be resolved informally.
    • *See TAC Grievance Procedure for Meetings.
  10. Continuous Improvement
    • Provide constructive feedback on meeting processes to enhance future sessions.
    • Collaborate on finding ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of meetings.
  11. Enforcement
    • Violation of this Code of Conduct may result in measures such as verbal warnings,
      temporary suspension of meeting participation, or, in extreme cases, expulsion from the
      association. The TAC Board reserves the right to determine appropriate consequences
      based on the severity and recurrence of the violation.

By participating in TAC meetings, members acknowledge their commitment to upholding this Code of Conduct.
Date of Adoption: March 22, 2024