Independent Workplace Investigations
Independent investigations by WorkPlacePLUS ensure the proper handling of complex workplace claims such as bullying, harassment, grievances, misconduct and non-performance of legislation and/or policies. Our experienced HR consultants are trained investigators who go above and beyond the final report by supporting your organisation towards continuous improvement.
It’s important to support your employees when they make workplace allegations or when investigations are required. There are a wide range of reasons why an investigation may need to be launched. No matter the reason, however, it can be emotionally and mentally challenging for your employee. It’s important to take appropriate action on these matters and ensure your employee is protected. By responding promptly and with appropriate action, you’re telling your employees you’re taking the matter seriously and showing them respect.
Managing workplace allegations and claims appropriately is about more than just responding quickly. You’ll need a fair workplace investigation and open communication with all parties involved regarding timeframes or any major decisions made, to ensure that your employees are prioritised.
Engaging an independent workplace investigation provider, like WorkPlacePLUS, is considered best practice for a number of reasons. Taking your investigation externally is essential to ensure procedural fairness and transparency and avoid conflicts of interest.
When Would You Need an Independent Workplace Investigation?
In a workplace, when serious incidents and allegations occur, they require immediate action. This can include:
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Bullying and harassment
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Discrimination
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Victimisation
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Violence and aggressive behaviour
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Unfair dismissal
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Breach of contract or policy
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Breach of privacy or confidentiality
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Wage theft
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Complaints
And more.
When serious allegations are made, like the ones above, it is an employer’s duty to organise an appropriate investigation of the situation to protect their employees and workplace. Handling these investigations appropriately helps to improve employee satisfaction, workplace morale, and keep your business generally compliant.
Many employers may believe that investigating the incident internally is the best course of action. However, there are potential challenges and complications with doing this internally.
Why is Keeping an Investigation Internal Challenging?
Maintaining workplace investigation skills in-house can be expensive and complicated, as it can be prone to perception of bias with potential for accusations of lack of procedural fairness, lack of transparency or perceived conflict of interest.
Some risks you may be exposed to when handling an investigation internally include:
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Conflict of Interest: Existing relationships in the workplace can influence and impact the process of an investigation. When handling the case internally, it is easy to become involved and caught up in the investigation, which can significantly impact the outcome. It is important to have a non-biased and uninvolved party handle the situation so it can be viewed as completely fair.
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Lack of Expertise: Internal HR staff or managers may not have specialised knowledge or training in how to manage formal escalations or processes. This can include not knowing processes, as well as maintaining appropriate confidentiality when navigating the investigations. It is important to handle these situations with care and sensitivity, as it can be difficult for the employees involved.
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Compliance: There are legal and compliance guidelines, such as the Fair Work Act 2009, the Respect at Work Act 2022, and work, health and safety (WHS) laws that need to be followed. If handled in-house, these regulations can be missed easily and escalate the situation further. Your business or organisation could face legal repercussions if regulations are not followed. An independent provider is trained to understand the complexities of laws and regulations, so they are not missed when handling your case.
With an Independent Workplace Investigation, you can benefit from an outside party handling your case with privacy, care and sensitivity, whilst receiving transparent communication, so your employees don’t feel like you have neglected the matter. It saves you time and avoids costly legal repercussions from unfair workplace investigations.
How WorkPlacePLUS Handle Your Workplace Investigation:
If you need to navigate a workplace investigation and you don’t know where to start, that’s what we’re here for. We offer comprehensive independent workplace investigations that provide you with the expertise you need to protect your business and employees.
Our qualified team of workplace investigation consultants are experienced in navigating unbiased and evidence-based workplace investigations, so you can ensure a fair outcome for everyone involved. They’re trained to stay focused and sensitive throughout the case, so your employees don’t feel mistreated. We can work with you after the case, to ensure that your workforce and team morale is restored, and not affected in the long-term. Our experienced investigators deliver professional, evidence-based reports that ensure procedural fairness, privacy and workplace integrity.
WorkPlacePLUS will ensure that your business remains compliant with employment laws like the Fair Work Act 2009, the Respect at Work Act 2022, anti-discrimination laws and WHS laws.. When you let us handle your investigation, you can focus on running your day-to-day operations.
For more information, contact us today, and we’ll get you started.