Written Warning at Work

[A1Mikey]

If you get a written warning at work (which I am sure we have all had at one time or another) and the warning states that it is for a period of 12 months - what does this mean? Does it mean that if you break that particular work rule again you can be dismissed, or does it mean that if you break any work rule within the next 12 months you can be dismissed (even if it is totally unconnected with the initial disciplinary hearing). Any ideas??

[dothawkes31]

yes it is probably a kind of probationary period to make sure that you follow your company policy and adere to the guidelines in your staff handbook. If you read your staff handbook it wil outline the company's disciplinary procedures and your right to fair treatment and representation.

[craft1948]

sorry Mikey but I've never had a verbal or written warning at work.......

[dothawkes31]

oh yes forgot to add, I have never had one either, though i have had to issue similar to staff but only after Records of Coversations have taken place to try to offer support and re-training to staff misinterpreting or misunderstaning company policy and procedures.

[buildersmate]

I'm afraid I don't agree with Dot on this one.
Warnings are invariably given for either Conduct or Capability. The former is 'your behaviour is not good enough' and the latter is 'your performance ain't up to the mark (including 'you keep being off sick')
If someone was given a warning for, saying, fighting, that's Misconduct. That person gets a written warning for misconduct and the letter will say something like in the event of your misconduct in the next 12 months, further disciplinary action may be taken that may lead to your dismissal.
So if 6 months later they get up to some silly or dangerous prank, that's also misconduct. Two events, and the potential for dismissal, but very dependent on the circumstances.