Employee Termination for Absenteeism: How Often Should Warning Letters Be Sent?

Dear all,

As we all know, an employee whose services have been confirmed shall not be terminated without three warning letters. Can someone please tell me what should be the frequency of sending these letters? Are there any laid-down labor laws/rules, or is it a thumb rule?

Regards.

There is no thumb rule regarding the frequency of sending warning letters. For the first offense (unauthorized absenteeism), you may issue a caution memo. If the offense is repeated, then you issue a warning letter. For the 3rd offense, you can initiate strict disciplinary procedures like issuing SCN or a charge sheet.

What is your policy regarding absenteeism? Does your establishment have certified standing orders? What is laid down in the standing order for long absences, frequent absences, and absenteeism, as well as the conditions that lead to termination?

In the absence of the above instrument, you should provide an explanation and a warning letter to employees with a habit of absenteeism. Further occurrences could lead to termination.