The objective of any disciplinary program is to provide an effective means for enforcing reasonable company rules and policies. To be effective, the administration of discipline to employees must be consistent. By consistent application of disciplinary measures an employer can reduce its exposure to litigation and develop a positive working relationship with its employees.
A disciplinary program sets various steps an employer should go through in handling a violation of company rules. Of course, there may be steps that are not applicable to each employer and adjustments in the disciplinary procedure may be necessary in particular cases. An employer should also use the program to obtain the thoughts of its supervisors with respect to the consistent application of rules, which should contribute to ensuring uniform discipline and fundamental fairness to employees. Following the procedures outlined below should lead to complete and accurate records of all disciplinary actions, which will in turn prove valuable if an employer’s disciplinary decision is called into question.