Gross Misconduct | Meaning and Definition

What is Gross Misconduct?

Gross Misconduct, meaning, in simple terms, is the engagement of an employee in any form of unprofessional or unethical behaviour. It results in harming the relationship between the employer and the employee and also might end up in a suspension letter to the employee for the negligence of duty even if it is the first offense.

In a workplace, it can adversely affect the health, safety, and reputation of the company.

Employees should have a basic idea of Gross Misconduct during the employment contract as discussed by the employers from the employee handbook in order to protect the company. An employee can be dismissed if there is a breach of the terms of conduct. This makes the employees aware of what is required of them and what can cause their immediate termination.

Examples of Gross Misconduct

It involves a certain set of actions, some mild whereas some extreme. Many of them are listed below:

•  Theft
•  Violence, fighting, or threats
•  Alcohol or drug use during work
•  Absence or repeated tardiness
•  Vandalizing or harming the company property
•  Assault or sexual harassment
•  Fraud
•  Abuse and abusive disobedience

Define misconduct

Misconduct is a mild form that is also paid by consequences but is not as serious as Gross Misconduct. Misconduct punishment does not include firing an employee. Misconduct involves situations like:

• Rudeness towards clients and colleagues
• Tardiness
• Incomplete submission of work
• Personal use of company’s equipment without permission

It involves a verbal or written warning from the employer. When the misconduct becomes a behaviour, it is considered Gross Misconduct, leading to instant warrant dismissal.