Mastering Progressive Discipline in South African Labour Law

Mastering Progressive Discipline in South African Labour Law

AF Consulting

Image

Mastering Progressive Discipline in South African Labour Law

It’s surprising how many don’t know that South African Labour Law prioritizes correcting behaviour over immediately resorting to dismissal. In fact, termination should only be considered when it’s truly impossible to continue the working relationship - like when the situation becomes intolerable or when it’s unreasonable to expect the company to keep the employee on board. This is why it's so important for managers to understand the right process when dealing with workplace discipline. Knowing the steps can save a lot of stress and even prevent costly legal disputes.

Practical tips:

What is Progressive Discipline:

A good place to start is by using progressive discipline, where employees are given chances to correct their behaviour through verbal or written warnings, counselling, and performance improvement plans before more serious action is taken. This encourages growth and improvement rather than immediate dismissal.

The Importance of Documentation:

It’s also crucial to document every step of the disciplinary process. Not only does this protect the company, but it shows transparency and fairness to the employee, which is important if the situation escalates.

Training for Managers:

Managers should be trained on the proper procedures for discipline to ensure they’re not making hasty decisions. This could prevent costly CCMA cases and preserve the work environment.

Legal Consequences:

Skipping the right steps can result in unfair dismissal claims, putting your business at risk of fines or reinstating the employee. Knowing the law means protecting your company.

Mastering Progressive Discipline in South African Labour Law

AF Consulting

AF Consulting in Hermanus specialises in human resources, recruitment, labour relations and training in the workplace. Human Resources Consultant, Arina Fyfer, is available to personally assist you in a focused recruitment process when hiring employees. AF Consulting’s HR service packages are tail...

View Profile

What is Xplorio?

Xplorio is your local connection allowing you to find anything and everything about a town.

WATCH THE VIDEO: Welcome to Kleinmond!
Read More

Other Articles

Embrace the Bigger Picture

Embrace the Bigger Picture

To achieve the life you envision, you must recognise that you are the change that will make it possible.

Beste Biltong, Droëwors en Beskuit

Beste Biltong, Droëwors en Beskuit

Jan Biltong t/a Suidwes Biltong het nie net biltong en droëwors beskikbaar nie, maar ook heerlike beskuit!

Overcome Anger: Transformative Coaching for Lasting Calm

Overcome Anger: Transformative Coaching for Lasting Calm

Anger is one of the most destructive forces we possess as humans.

Comfy Cargo Pants and Sandals for the Ultimate Chill Look!

Comfy Cargo Pants and Sandals for the Ultimate Chill Look!

Get ready for the ultimate chill vibe with The Holmes Brothers' Cargo Pants!

Reclaim Your Focus: Let Go of Micromanagement

Reclaim Your Focus: Let Go of Micromanagement

When we lose touch with who we truly are, we often fall into the habit of micromanaging, trying to control each detail.

Reclaim Your Confidence: Transform After Narcissistic Abuse

Reclaim Your Confidence: Transform After Narcissistic Abuse

Escaping from a narcissist is the first step. Sometimes, however, we cannot escape and need to find ways to survive.

See All Articles