Progressive Discipline Policy

PURPOSE

KBD Transportation has adopted a Progressive Discipline Policy to ensure that all employees have the opportunity to correct any performance or behavioral problems that may arise.  KBD Transportation has established a set of reasonable rules and guidelines for employees to follow.  These have not been put in place to restrict the freedom of our employees, but rather they are in consideration of their safety and their overall protection, the protection of our property and of our business practices.


SCOPE

In the event that an employee of KBD Transportation violates company policy or exhibits problematic behaviour, a system of progressive discipline will be utilized where possible.  Employees will be given opportunities to correct the unwanted behaviour as follows:  First offence: verbal warning; Second offence:  written warning; Third offence: one day suspension; Fourth offence:  three day suspension; Fifth offence:  5 day suspension.  If there is no improvement at this point, the employee is subject to dismissal.
Degrees of discipline shall be used in relation to the problem at hand.  As the situation dictates, based on past performance of the employee and the seriousness of the violation, KBD Transportation reserves the right to skip the six-step disciplinary process and move straight to termination where necessary (in the case of severe misconduct- ref. Category 2 Offence).  On the other hand, they also reserve the right to enforce additional verbal warnings before moving on to the next step.
Category 1 Offence:
(Subject to Progressive Discipline)

  • Violations of state or provincial laws which are a direct result of neglectful behaviour.
  • Arriving to work late without reasonable cause.
  • Failure to provide reasonable cause for an absence from work.
  • Disorderly, immoral or indecent conduct on KBD premises.
  • Failure to comply with safety regulations and company policies.
  • Failing to fulfill job elements.
  • Creation of unsanitary work conditions.
  • Engaging in malicious gossip and/or spreading of rumours.

Category 2 Offence:  Severe Misconduct
(Subject to Progressive Discipline and possibly immediate suspension or dismissal.)

  • Theft, including physical and intellectual properties.
  • Dishonest, illegal or improper activities.
  • Possession of alcohol, illicit narcotics, or non-prescribed pharmaceuticals while on company property, or use thereof while operating KBD equipment.
  • Negligence resulting in damage to company property.
  • Workplace violence, including but not limited to:  fighting, assault, harassment or possession of a weapon.
  • Disorderly, immoral or indecent conduct at a customer.

The Management of KBD Transportation will:

  • Properly investigate and document all violations or alleged violations of company policy.
  • Conduct fact-based decisions, treating everyone fairly. 
  • Attempt to help the employee improve their performance by providing appropriate direction through reasonable supervision, training and instruction.

Mitigating and Aggravating Factors

The following factors will be taken into consideration when basing decisions on Progressive Discipline:

  • Was the conduct intentional?
  • Is the employee accepting responsibility for his/her actions?
  • Was the infraction an isolated incident?
  • Is this a long-term employee?
  • What is the work history of the employee?

DEFINITIONS

Incompetence             Employee lacks the skills or ability needed for the job.                                  
Misconduct                Employee breaks rules for keeping workplace safe and efficient.