The importance of conducting office disciplinary hearings correctly

The importance of conducting office disciplinary hearings correctly
Podcast
The importance of conducting office disciplinary hearings correctly
Podcast
Yvonne explained that a disciplinary hearing is held when an employee is believed to have committed an act of misconduct. This typically involves a breach of a known workplace rule, either one that the employee was aware of or reasonably should have been. Yvonne emphasised the need to distinguish disciplinary hearings from those held for incapacity, such as poor performance or ill health, which do not involve wrongdoing by the employee.
Yvonne further highlighted that when an employee receives a disciplinary notice, it’s crucial to read it carefully. The notice communicates key information, such as the charges of the specific misconduct the employee is expected to respond to, and the date and time of the hearing. Employees are generally given two to three days to prepare, which may not be much. They must understand their rights during this period, including who may represent them in the hearing.
Yvonne stressed that every employee has the right to a fair hearing. This means being informed of the case they need to meet and being given a proper opportunity to present their side. This includes presenting their own evidence or that of witnesses and the right to challenge the evidence brought against them by the employer. The process must be fair, efficient, and handled without unnecessary delay to avoid frustration. Additionally, the chairperson overseeing the hearing must remain impartial at all times.
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