What to do about absent employees during protests like this last week

Lowveld businesses have been faced with a lot of uncertainty over the last few days, specifically with reference to absent employees due to ongoing transportation challenges. This led to many employers asking what action they can take in terms of absent employees. The simple answer is there is not much one can do. An employer is however, allowed to deduct these days from the employee’s annual leave or they are able to opt for unpaid leave depending on what the employee in question prefers. If the employee in question’s annual leave is exhausted, these days would be seen as unpaid leave.

If an employer does take disciplinary action, it imposes a risk on such employer as the employee can refer the matter to the CCMA, which can have a financial implication on the organisation. However, in the event where an employer is able to proof that the employee in question had access to other transport methods disciplinary action may be taken.

Please feel free to contact one of Industrial Relations Regional Advisors at nelspruitsupport@labournet.com.