What is Disciplinary Action?
Disciplinary Action is the corrective measures taken by an employer in response to an employee's violation or insubordination of company policies, rules, or standards of conduct. These actions are intended to address and rectify behavior or performance issues and may range from verbal warnings to written reprimands, suspension, or, in severe cases, termination of employment.
If an employee repeatedly arrives late to work despite previous verbal warnings, the employer may escalate to written warnings or even suspension as a form of disciplinary action.
Purpose of disciplinary action in the workplace:
The purpose of disciplinary action is to correct behavior or performance issues, maintain a productive and professional work environment, and ensure that employees understand and adhere to company policies.
Steps in the disciplinary action process:
The steps in the disciplinary action process typically involve:
· Verbal counseling
· Following a fair procedure
· Investigating thoroughly
· Communicating the outcomes to employees
· Issuing warning
· Following up on the disciplinary procedure
What should be included in a written warning for disciplinary action?
A written warning should include a detailed description of the employee's behavior or performance issue, specific policies violated, any prior verbal warnings, and expectations for improvement.
How should employers handle sensitive disciplinary situations?
Employers should handle sensitive disciplinary situations with empathy and professionalism. This may involve providing additional support or resources to help the employee improve their performance.
The legal considerations for disciplinary action in the UAE and Saudi Arabia:
In the UAE and Saudi Arabia, employers must consider due diligence and adhere to local labor laws when implementing disciplinary actions. This may include providing written notifications, offering opportunities for the employee to respond, and following established procedures.
In conclusion, disciplinary action is a crucial tool for maintaining a productive and professional work environment. It allows employers to address behavior or performance issues while providing employees with opportunities to improve. In the UAE and Saudi Arabia, understanding and adhering to local labor laws is essential when implementing disciplinary actions to ensure fair treatment and compliance with legal requirements.
