Positive Substance Tests at Work: Is Proof of Impairment Always Necessary?
Positive substance tests at work does not automatically establish that an employee was impaired while on duty. Whether disciplinary - READ MORE
Can an Employee Be Dismissed for Lying During a Disciplinary Inquiry?
Employee dishonesty during a disciplinary inquiry must be distinguished from an unsuccessful defence. An employee who denies misconduct and - READ MORE
Fixed-Term Contracts vs Probation: What Employers Need to Know
Employers sometimes use fixed-term contracts as a “trial period”, assuming that the expiry of the contract provides an automatic - READ MORE
2026 CCMA Rules Amendments: What South African Employers Need to Know
The amended Rules governing proceedings before the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) took effect on 23 October - READ MORE
Sick Leave in South Africa: Medical Certificates and Employer Obligations
Sick leave in South Africa is governed primarily by sections 22 and 23 of the Basic Conditions of Employment - READ MORE
Fixed-Term Contracts: Why “Completion of Tasks” Is Not Enough
The use of fixed-term contracts provides employers with flexibility, particularly where operational requirements fluctuate. That flexibility is, however, subject - READ MORE
Delay in Disciplinary Action Does Not Automatically Amount to Waiver
A delay in disciplinary action can create difficulties for employers, particularly where a lengthy investigation means that the underlying - READ MORE
Employment Equity Compliance in South Africa: Beyond Annual Reporting
A year into the amended Employment Equity framework, Employment Equity compliance in South Africa is no longer simply an - READ MORE
Persistent Late-Coming in the Workplace: When Can It Justify Dismissal?
Persistent late-coming in the workplace may appear to be a minor issue when individual incidents are viewed in isolation. - READ MORE
Hearsay Evidence in Dismissal Proceedings
Hearsay evidence in dismissal proceedings is often encountered in workplaces. An employee may, for example, be accused of misconduct - READ MORE
Restraint of Trade Enforceability: What South African Employers Need to Know
Restraint of trade enforceability is an important consideration for employers seeking to protect legitimate business interests following the termination - READ MORE
Fixed-Term Contracts in South Africa: 5 Mistakes Employers Still Make
Fixed-term contracts in South Africa remain an important workforce planning tool for employers. They provide flexibility where businesses require - READ MORE
Progressive Discipline: The Importance of Disciplinary Warnings
Discipline is an essential component of every workplace. Progressive discipline helps employees understand the standards of conduct expected of - READ MORE
Unauthorised Absence: Why Finding a Replacement Does Not Excuse Non-Attendance
Unauthorised absence can create significant disciplinary and operational challenges for employers, particularly where employees are required to work scheduled - READ MORE
Witness Credibility: How Chairpersons Should Evaluate Conflicting Evidence in Disciplinary Hearings
One of the most challenging responsibilities of a disciplinary chairperson is determining which version of events to accept when - READ MORE