The ACAS Code Of Practice

The ACAS Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures sets out the main principles for handling disciplinary and grievance issues in the workplace.

It provides basic guidance for employers, employees, and their representatives, and is an important reference point when reviewing or using workplace disciplinary and grievance procedures.

The Code does not apply to dismissals for redundancy or to the non-renewal of fixed-term contracts on expiry.

All businesses are required to provide employees with written disciplinary and grievance procedures and policies.

Why the ACAS Code Matters

Although the ACAS Code itself is not legally binding, it carries real practical significance. Employment Tribunals will consider whether an employer has followed it when deciding relevant cases.

Where an employer has unreasonably failed to comply with the Code, a tribunal may adjust any award by up to 25%.

What the ACAS Code Covers

The Code is structured in four main sections:

• Foreword;
• the Code of Practice itself;
• discipline; and
• grievance.

When to Use This Document

This document is useful for employers reviewing their disciplinary and grievance arrangements, checking alignment with accepted workplace practice, or supporting the drafting and use of related internal procedures.

It should be used as a companion document when considering how workplace concerns, misconduct issues, and employee complaints should be handled.

The ACAS Code Of Practice is part of Employment. Just £38.50 + VAT provides unlimited downloads from Employment for 1 year.