HR Glossary  >   Suspension

Suspension

What is Suspension?

Suspension is a scenario where an employee who is still employed by an organization, is asked not to attend work or participate in any work-related activities for a temporary period. This action is often a disciplinary measure against the employee for any misconduct being investigated or needs a time off for health reasons. Suspension aims to make a space for an overall examination of employee misconduct or to allow employees to take a rest without worrying about regular work responsibilities.

Having someone suspended is a big decision, typically involves careful consideration of the circumstances surrounding the individual’s behavior or health condition. Suspension can prove to be a valuable measure to maintain order within the workplace and lift organizational behavioral standards. It also acts as a protective measure for employees and their colleagues, ensuring that a harmful or disruptive situation is taken seriously and addressed promptly.

For suspension to be fair and transparent, organizations have guidelines about when and why they should suspend someone. This includes mentioning the specific reasons for suspension, the procedural steps to be followed, and the consequences that come after the suspension period ends. Clarity in the policy is must to avoid any ambiguity and ensure employee’s understanding regarding the circumstance in which suspension was implemented.

For example, if an employee acts badly towards their bosses, the company might decide to suspend them for a week. This gives time to check what happened and show that such behavior is not okay. This example shows that suspension is not just a way to punish; it's also about keeping a good work atmosphere and reminding everyone to be professional and respectful.

HR

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the reasons for suspension?

Suspension can be given for the following reasons:

  • Misconduct
  • Not obeying the companies code of conduct
  • Damaging the company property and assets
  • Pending inquiry into serious accusations
  • Non-compliance with safety regulations
  • Accommodation of medical needs or health issues

2. What are the rules for suspension?

Suspension rules can differ from company to company, but here are some of the common rules

  • Payment of suspension allowance during the suspension period.
  • Employees should only be suspended after a completed inquiry into the situation.
  • The outcome of the inquiry must be determined before implementing the suspension.
  • These rules aim to ensure fairness and transparency in the suspension process.
  • The suspension allowance serves as compensation for the period the employee is not working.
  • Variances in suspension rules may exist among different companies.

3. Is suspension shown in the work records?

If someone is suspended for a short time, people may not pay much attention. But if the suspension lasts longer, it could show up in work records. Short suspensions might not have a big impact, but longer ones can affect how others see the person at work. Work records, like files that keep track of what happens, may reflect the extended suspension, making it more noticeable and potentially influencing how the person is perceived in the workplace.

Modify your HR and payroll tasks with factoHR today

Let your HR and workforce focus on most important business decisions while factoHR can reduce the burden of daily activities of the organization.

Request Free Trial