Suspension Letter for Health And Safety Reasons

The Suspension Letter – Health and Safety should be used where an employer needs to suspend an employee on health and safety grounds, for example where continued exposure to hazardous substances could put employees’ health at risk.

It is intended as a precautionary step while the position is investigated. The purpose is to protect health and safety, not to treat the employee as guilty of misconduct.

When to use this health and safety suspension letter

This letter can be used where the employee’s continued presence at work may create a health and safety risk, including where exposure to hazardous substances could damage the health of the company’s employees.

It should be read alongside the Disciplinary Policy and Disciplinary Procedure and the Guidance Notes: Disciplinary Procedure.

What the letter covers during suspension

The letter explains that the suspension is a precautionary measure only. It is not disciplinary action and should not be treated as a presumption of guilt.

It also sets out the practical arrangements that apply during the suspension period, including:

- that pay and benefits should remain unchanged; and
- what the employee should and should not do while suspended.

Why suspension must be justified

Suspension should be used carefully and only where justified by the circumstances. An unjustified suspension period may amount to a breach of the implied term of trust and confidence.

In serious cases, that could lead to the employee resigning and bringing a claim for constructive unfair dismissal.

Suspension Letter for Health And Safety Reasons is part of Employment. Just £38.50 + VAT provides unlimited downloads from Employment for 1 year.