Last weekend i was absent for two days . I have notified my supervisor that i wasn't feeling well and unable to come to work. When i arrived at work he issued me with a final written warning . Which i don't even know why it was given and i did inform them that i wasn't coming in. I have a warning for late coming but never got one for absenteeism. Is this valid? Shouldn't i be given a warning first then escalates to final written warning? Please help me as i am not very clear on how this.
The Basic Conditions of Employment Act section 22, regulates sick leave.
An employer has the right to ask an employee to provide a medical certificate if an employee has been absent for two or more consecutive days. Most companies have policies in place which deal with sick leave. With regards to your matter, the employer may issue you with a written warning as a first offence this usually stands for a period of 3 months. If you have committed a second offence the employer may issue you with a final written warning that will stand for a period of 12 month.
It is your responsibility to follow the company policies,if you have a doctors certificate that can explain your absence on those two days it is suggested you submit it to the relevant person e.g HR. The employer will therefore have to reverse the final written warning. If the employer/ manager refuses to do so and you have provided the company with a valid medical certificate and you have not used up all of your sick leave. It would then be best to draft a formal grievance letter explaining your situation.