Conducting Workplace Investigations

A workplace investigation should be conducted in a thorough, consistent and objective manner using a standard process. It is important that employer’s implement a minimum standard in the design and execution of workplace investigations to ensure consistency.

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Introduction to Workplace Investigations

An investigation is a fact-finding exercise to collect all the relevant information on a matter. A properly conducted investigation can enable an employer to fully consider the matter and then make an informed decision on it.

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Investigation Process

A workplace investigation should be conducted in a thorough, consistent and objective manner using a standard process.

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Organisational Preparation

The first step in the investigation process is organisational preparation and specifically to decide if an investigation is necessary.

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An Investigator’s Preparation

The second step in the investigation process is the investigator’s preparation and specifically to draft an investigation plan.

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Handling an Investigation Meeting

The third step in the process is handling an investigation meeting. While investigation meetings will often be needed, some investigations will only require the collection of written and physical evidence. In these circumstances, an investigator will not need to follow this step.

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