Understanding Disciplinary Actions: What Mistakes Could Get You in Trouble at Work?

Hi,

What kinds of mistakes come under disciplinary action? Can you provide summaries and assistance?

Regards,
Lalitha

Discipline

It is the responsibility of members of an organization to follow the rules, regulations, standards, and procedures set by the organization.

Types of Punishment

- Oral Warning
- Written Warning or Pink Slip (Certain rights may be withdrawn in case of misconduct)
- Loss of Privileges (If an employee leaves work without obtaining permission from a superior)
- Fine
- Withholding Increment
- Demotion (Moving an employee to a lower grade from their current position)
- Discharge (Positive or negative)
- Dismissals (always negative/certainly punishable)

Indiscipline

- Changes in normal behavior
- Absenteeism
- Slowing down work pace
- Increase in grievances
- Persistent and continuous demand for overtime allowance
- Lack of concern for performance

Misconduct

- Violation of established rules and procedures
- It is a severe form of indiscipline, including:
a) Remaining absent without leave
b) Immoral and dishonest behavior
c) Insulting or abusing others
d) Being unfaithful, corrupt, disloyal
e) Engaging in theft, fraud, bribery
f) Not obeying orders and instructions
g) Participating in illegal strikes or damaging property

Example of Misconduct

- Leaving work early
- Absconding during working hours
- Engaging in personal activities during duty hours

Disciplinary Procedure

1. Issuance of Charge-sheet or Show-cause Notice
2. Consideration of Explanation
3. Suspension pending inquiry
4. Conducting Inquiry
5. Issuing Punishment Order

Please review the information provided and let me know if you have any questions.

Regards,
Amit

Disciplinary action can be taken for the misconducts mentioned under the Industrial Employment Standing Orders Act and state rules. The observed negative behavior must be linked to the listed misconducts, and charges need to be filed against the delinquent employee in the form of a show-cause cum charge sheet. Subsequently, a domestic inquiry conducted by an inquiry officer will determine the findings of the investigation. If the charges are proven, appropriate punishment should be imposed.

On general terms, it is not mistakes but mischiefs that entail disciplinary action. The basic requirement for any able administrator is the capacity to assume responsibility and distinguish a mistake from a mischief.

Sir,

I want to ask if the enquiry has been closed and no wages were paid before or after the enquiry, what should be done in that case?