Suspension policy template
Our Suspension Policy Template ensures fair and consistent procedures are followed during employee suspensions, protecting both employees and the company.
5 mins
What is a Suspension policy?
A Suspension Policy outlines the procedures and circumstances under which an employee may be suspended from work pending an investigation into allegations of misconduct or other serious concerns.
It provides guidance on the steps to be taken when initiating a suspension, including notification to the employee, clarification of the reasons for suspension, and arrangements for the duration of the suspension period.
By adhering to this policy, organisations can ensure fair and transparent handling of disciplinary matters and protect the interests of both the employee and the organisation during the investigation process. It aims to uphold procedural fairness, maintain workplace integrity, and safeguard the well-being of all parties involved while investigations are conducted thoroughly and impartially.
During onboarding / after changes / planned refresher
Internally issued to appropriate recipients in your Company
Great Britain & NI (United Kingdom), Worldwide
Suspension
Overview
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines and procedures for suspending employees when necessary, ensuring fair treatment and adherence to company standards.
Scope
This policy applies to all employees of [Company Name], including full-time, part-time, and temporary employees.
General Principles
Grounds for Suspension
Employees may be suspended for any of the following reasons:
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Gross misconduct, including but not limited to theft, dishonesty, violence, harassment, or violation of company policies.
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Breach of health and safety regulations posing a risk to themselves, colleagues, or company property.
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Serious violation of company policies or procedures.
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Pending investigation of alleged misconduct.
Suspension Process
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Initiation: The decision to suspend an employee will be made by [HR Department/Management] in consultation with relevant stakeholders. The decision will be based on a thorough investigation and consideration of all available evidence.
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Notification: The employee will be informed of their suspension verbally and in writing. The written notification will include the reasons for suspension, expected duration, and any conditions or restrictions during the suspension period.
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Investigation: An investigation into the alleged misconduct will be conducted promptly and impartially. The employee will have the opportunity to present their side of the story during the investigation.
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Duration: Suspension will be for a reasonable duration, depending on the severity of the alleged misconduct and the time required for the investigation. It will be reviewed periodically, and the employee will be kept informed of any updates.
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Pay and Benefits: During the suspension period, the employee will be entitled to full pay and benefits, as per company policy and relevant employment laws. Any adjustments will be communicated to the employee.
Return to Work
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Once the investigation is concluded, and a decision is reached, the employee will be informed of the outcome promptly.
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Depending on the outcome, the employee may be reinstated with full rights and privileges, subject to any disciplinary action deemed appropriate.
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c. If the investigation reveals no wrongdoing, the employee will be reinstated without any adverse effects on their employment record.
Confidentiality
All aspects of the suspension process, including the reasons for suspension and investigation details, will be treated with strict confidentiality to protect the privacy and reputation of all parties involved.
Appeals Process
Employees have the right to appeal against the decision to suspend them. Details of the appeals process will be provided to the employee along with the suspension notification.
Compliance
All employees are expected to comply with this suspension policy. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.
Review
This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated as necessary to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
This policy [does not] form[s] part of your terms and conditions of employment.
Version: [1.0]
Issue date: [date]
Author: [name, job title]
Why buy our Suspension policy template?
- It's easily editable and implementable, saving you time and money
- It's designed by CIPD accedited Chartered HR practitioners with operational experience in this area
- You will maintain compliance with ACAS guidelines, legislation, and industry best practices
- Email notifications for any updates made to this template or its accompanying materials
- 12 months of unrestricted access without any additional costs (any update in that period is free to you)
- A 25% discount on all library, toolkit, and template purchases/renewals
