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The Global Insight

What are the disciplinary action against employees?

Author

Christopher Davis

Updated on March 30, 2026

Article shared by : ADVERTISEMENTS: Discipline particularly positive discipline follows a typical sequence from mild to harsh: These vary from oral warning, written notice, suspension, demotion, pay cut and dismissal in that order.

What should you do if faced with disciplinary action at work?

Top 10 Tips if you have a Disciplinary at Work

  1. Use the time to think.
  2. Use witnesses for the disciplinary hearing.
  3. Gather documents.
  4. Read the ACAS Code of Practice.
  5. Comply with the ACAS Code of Practice.
  6. Get trade Union Representation.
  7. Get a copy of the notes/minutes of the disciplinary hearing.
  8. Fair decision making.

How do you respond to a disciplinary action?

First, say nothing about the facts of your case to the person serving you with the notice. Sign that you received the Notice (this does not mean you agree with it) and politely leave. Do not engage in a question and answer session. This almost always hurts your case.

What are the stages of disciplinary procedures?

How disciplinary procedures work

  • A letter setting out the issue.
  • A meeting to discuss the issue.
  • A disciplinary decision.
  • A chance to appeal this decision.

    How do you stay calm in a disciplinary?

    Try to remain calm and stick to the facts at your disciplinary meeting:

    1. Arrive on time and presentable – you want to make a good impression.
    2. Stick to the facts.
    3. Don’t be hurried into an answer.
    4. Remain calm and polite.
    5. Don’t tape the meeting without permission – doing so could be a disciplinary offence.

    Can a employer take disciplinary action against an employee?

    There are actions that an employer can take against employees who have been errant or unmanageable, which includes dismissals. But, any action taken must follow the right disciplinary procedure.

    What should be the philosophy of disciplinary action?

    The philosophy behind administering disciplinary action is that a negative motivation should be handled in a positive manner, that is, it should be brought home to the employee that a negative approach does not pay. Positively-oriented managers generally feel that discipline should not punish but instead be corrective and constructive.

    How to handle disciplinary action against union reps?

    Before starting any disciplinary process, employers should: develop a communications strategy to brief both the workforce and (if appropriate) to be used externally to ensure that your approach is controlled and understood. Jamie Cameron is a senior associate with Burges Salmon LLP.

    Can a disciplinary process lead to industrial action?

    Disciplinary proceedings against trade union officials can create tensions within the workforce and can lead to industrial action (or at least the threat of it). Before starting any disciplinary process, employers should: