15 Nov What do we do if an employee refuses to sign a written warning?
When an employee refuses to sign a warning, we recommend writing “refused to sign” at the bottom of the notice. It is best if you have more than one person witness and attest to this refusal. Ideally, you and another manager would sign under this notation.
The employee’s refusal to sign the warning does not negate what was written. The employee still needs to comply with the requirements set out in the written warning.
The decision about whether to take additional action for refusal to sign is case-specific. In many instances, it is best to stick with the disciplinary procedure of whatever the written warning was about and take no further disciplinary action based on their refusal to sign.
In some instances, however, an employee’s refusal and surrounding actions (i.e., yelling, cursing, etc.) may constitute insubordination, and make additional discipline appropriate. Either way, upper management should review the write-up and circumstances and make the call.
Original content by HR Ministry Solutions. This information is provided with the understanding that Payroll Partners is not rendering legal, human resources, or other professional advice or service. Professional advice on specific issues should be sought from a lawyer, HR consultant or other professional.