ABSTRACT
To be disciplined for an act of misconduct or poor performance can have a serious effect on the employee concerned. At best, it acts as a 'black mark' and at worst it could lead to dismissal. Disciplinary rules and procedures are necessary for promoting orderly employment relations as well as fairness and consistency in the treatment of employees. They also enable companies to influence the conduct of employees and deal with problems of poor performance, thereby assisting companies to operate effectively. The Disciplinary Procedures should be applied consistently because an employment tribunal may view inconsistency without good reason as unfair. This chapter discusses the six stages of discipline, namely, investigation, invitation, adjournment before a decision, further hearing(s), decision, given in writing, and appeal. For any disciplinary action to have a chance of a successful outcome, there are a number of essential ingredients.
