When Does Misconduct Become “Gross”?
When Does Misconduct Become “Gross”? Recently, I was the Chairperson of a Disciplinary Hearing, and the question that the Accused’s Representative raised was “when does the specific misconduct (dishonesty) become gross in nature, and why?” I, of course, needed to answer this question, and thought it appropriate to write an article on the topic. The […]
The Importance of Effectively Handling Grievances in the Workplace
The Importance of Effectively Handling Grievances in the Workplace In any workplace, disagreements and dissatisfaction are bound to arise – what truly matters is how they’re handled. A grievance isn’t something to fear or avoid; it’s an opportunity to strengthen communication, trust, and fairness within your team. In South Africa, the Code of Good Practice […]
Incompatibility – What is it, and what does it mean?
Incompatibility – What is it, and what does it mean? The issue of incompatibility in the workplace refers to situations where an employee’s approach, attitude, lack of diplomacy, manipulative behaviour, or general inability to foster positive relationships disrupts the working environment. Even if these employees meet their work objectives, their behaviour or conduct may still […]
The Principle of Progressive Discipline, Fairness Before Dismissal
The Principle of Progressive Discipline, Fairness Before Dismissal In the world of employment relations, few topics create more confusion and sometimes conflict than discipline in the workplace. Employers often ask, “When can we dismiss someone?” or “Do we always have to issue warnings first?” The answer lies in one of the cornerstone principles of South […]
Discipline and Trade Unions: Why Employers Fear It and How to Handle It Fairly
Discipline and Trade Unions: Why Employers Fear It and How to Handle It Fairly Managing discipline in a unionised workplace can be challenging for Employers. Concerns about potential disputes, strikes, or CCMA referrals often lead to hesitation in addressing misconduct; however, South African Labour Law provides clear guidelines to ensure that discipline is both effective […]
Can You Dismiss Someone for Being Under the Influence on the First Offence?
Can You Dismiss Someone for Being Under the Influence on the First Offence? With December just around the corner, workplaces are busier than ever – and with the festive season approaching, the issue of employees being under the influence at work becomes particularly relevant. We all know that alcohol and drugs have no place at […]
Outsourced Labour: The New Norm in Global Business Operations
Outsourced Labour: The New Norm in Global Business Operations Outsourcing labour has become a core part of modern business strategies. It allows companies to access a bigger talent pool, operate with greater flexibility, and reduce costs. This trend is transforming industries locally and internationally and raising important questions about workers’ rights and employment laws at […]
Labour Law Reform: New Code of Good Practice on Dismissal – Effective September 2025
Labour Law Reform: New Code of Good Practice on Dismissal – Effective September 2025 South Africa has entered a new era of workplace regulation. With effect from 4 September 2025, the long-standing Schedule 8 of the Labour Relations Act (LRA) has been repealed and replaced by a completely new Code of Good Practice: Dismissal. This […]
Human Resources’ Role in Organisational Sustainability: A South African Perspective
Human Resources’ Role in Organisational Sustainability: A South African Perspective In recent years, the role of Human Resources (HR) in organisational sustainability has become increasingly important. Sustainability encompasses economic, social, and environmental dimensions, and HR plays a pivotal role in integrating these elements into organisational strategies. This article explores HR’s impact on sustainability from a […]
What Remote Work Means for South African Employers
What Remote Work Means for South African Employers The world has changed a lot in the last 10 – 15 years, and what I mean by that is that a few years ago, you would only be able to do business or work within a 30 – 50km radius of where you were located. Now, […]