Ethical safeguard
An ethical safeguard is an action, individually or in combination with others, that effectively reduces an identified threat to compliance with the fundamental principles to an acceptable level. The appropriate action depends on the threat and circumstances. Where a specific prohibition applies or the threat cannot be reduced sufficiently, the activity or relationship must be declined or ended as required.
Worked example
An independent reviewer examines work affected by a self-review threat where the relevant code permits that safeguard.
Common mistake
Do not assume a review can cure every threat or override a specific prohibition.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | AA | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |