Rio Tinto has published the findings of an ongoing independent progress review on its work to deliver sustained workplace cultural change across its global operations.
An initial ‘Everyday Respect’ report was initially undertaken in 2022, which outlined 26 recommendations for Rio Tinto to improve workplace culture.
Two years into a long-term cultural change program, a review has found that progress is being made with promising signs of improved culture, innovation, and performance.
The latest progress review found the 26 recommendations have been largely implemented with longer-term actions ongoing.
Around half of the 11,600 survey respondents reported a perceived improvement in relation to bullying (50 per cent), sexual harassment (47 per cent) and racism (46 per cent).
A majority of respondents expressed confidence the company will make a meaningful difference in these areas in coming years and felt Everyday Respect is now widely considered a normal conversation within the company, which is a critical step for culture change.
However, the review also revealed mixed results, with concerning behaviours persisting in some areas and requiring sustained attention to address effectively.
“People are still experiencing behaviours and attitudes in our company that are unacceptable and harmful,” Rio Tinto chief executive Jakob Stausholm said.
“I am greatly troubled by this and sincerely apologise on behalf of our leadership team to anyone affected.
“I want to thank everyone across our business who has shown the courage to speak up, as your honesty will guide our ongoing efforts to become an organisation where every day is safe, respectful, and productive for everyone.”
Stausholm said he is proud and greatly encouraged by the genuine effort across Rio Tinto to change and to make Everyday Respect part of daily conversations, and by the fact that this progress review shows the majority of the company’s people believe it is heading in the right direction.
“The review also shows that while progress is being made, achieving the sustained change we want to see in our culture will require ongoing focus and effort,” he said.
“My message today is that we will stay the course.”
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