The Confidentiality of Client Information

In carrying out assignments, Balardo Group consultants are privy to confidential client information.  Additionally, they often use this information in the analysis of current data, and, as well, they create information that becomes client-confidential and proprietary.  It is critical that such information remains confidential both during the execution of the engagement and following completion, and - as the majority of information is transported and exchanged electronically - extreme vigilance is needed to maintain such confidentiality.   Described below are Balardo Group’s guidelines with respect to ensuring confidentiality of client information.  It should be noted that such guidelines are periodically reviewed and updated as necessary

• Balardo Group consultants are governed by an agreement that they sign on commencement of their association with Balardo Group. A significant portion of this agreement relates to maintaining the confidentiality of client information
• Balardo Group consultants will not disclose confidential information except as such disclosure is necessary for the successful execution of a project. Such information includes, but is not limited to, corporate policy plans, corporate financial information, as well as information about individuals who are employed by the client or who are customers or suppliers of the client. Where there might be a confidentiality conflict, the consultant will obtain approval from the Project Sponsor prior to disclosure.
• Balardo Group consultants are obligated to install virus protection on any laptop that is used for client business (and therefore is likely connected to a client’s network)
• Where appropriate, Balardo Group enters into a Non-Disclosure Agreement with the client. All Balardo Group consultants are bound by the conditions of this Agreement. In many instances, long-standing Non-Disclosure Agreements are in place that cover current, and any future, engagements with that client
• On conclusion of an assignment, the Balardo Group consultant will – depending on the information in his/her possession - either return the information to the client or, for information in electronic form, erase the relevant files and emails.
• Balardo Group has established a process for reviewing these guidelines with clients, and for resolving any issues when a client may feel that such guidelines have not been fully adhered to. These are addressed directly by the President of Balardo Group.
• Balardo Group endeavors to follow and uphold (and ensures that its consultants also follow), the guidelines that have become ‘best practices’, including but not limited to:
   
  
  • Personal Information Protection and Electronic Document Act - PIPEDA
  • Personal Health Information Protection Act (Ontario) - PHIPA
  • The protection of Personally Identifiable Information - PII
  • The protection of Health Information - PHI