Workplace Investigations
It is essential for the working environment to remain professional and civil; however, employee disputes and misconduct in the workplace is not uncommon.
Allegations of bullying, harassment and discrimination can make it particularly difficult for employees to focus on their jobs. These situations can quickly become complicated and personal and will often have serious ramifications for all involved. If situations like this are ignored, they can have consequences for the entire company. Continual problems could result in employee morale suffering and the potential for a loss of profit for the business.
However, few managers are experienced or qualified to deal with workplace complaints and workplace investigations. It can also be difficult for managers to remain impartial in these types of proceedings due to their relationships with employees.
This is why outsourcing workplace investigations to a qualified specialist is often the most practical, effective and reliable option.
Workplace investigators
Our workplace investigators have the ability to conduct an impartial investigation into formal complaints about bullying, harassment, discrimination, fraud or any other unethical behaviour in the workplace. Our qualified workplace investigators can also make observations in regards to any potential breaches of policy.
This process is undertaken in order to improve the working environment and resolve any issues. Therefore, a workplace investigator may also recommend post investigation support strategies that will help you and your employees move forward.
During the process of a workplace investigation, communication and feedback with all relevant parties is essential. An experienced workplace investigator will help you and your employees with:
- Addressing the complaint
- Conducting an investigation in a fair and unbiased manner
- Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks
- Minimise confusion and the impact on staff
- Prevent the management team from being distracted from their responsibilities
- Establishing all the facts
- Giving you the confidence to make well-informed decisions.
The procedure of a workplace investigation is a four step process. This involves:
- Preparation for the investigation
- Interviewing all relevant parties
- Creating a report
Conflict resolution activities
It is important to recognise that the process of conducting a workplace investigation can be complicated and time consuming. Therefore, this is not something that should be undertaken by a manager or other member of staff. Instead, you should think about hiring a qualified and experienced workplace investigator from O’Sullivan Mediation.