Restrictions OK
Jurisdiction Employment Relations Authority - Auckland
Reference No [2013] NZERA Auckland 376
Hearing date 19 Aug 2013
Determination date 22 August 2013
Member R Larmer
Representation J Noble ; R Harrison
Location Auckland
Parties Kumar v Spotless Facility Services (NZ) Ltd
Summary UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL – Serious Misconduct – Applicant claimed unjustifiably dismissed by respondent – Applicant left outdoors barbecue unattended at rest home resulting in fire - Applicant claimed raised safety concerns about barbecue with respondent - Applicant claimed Manager said would be no adverse consequences as result of fire - Chef
Abstract AUTHORITY FOUND –;UNJUSTIFIED DISMISSAL: Applicant did not update accident register to reflect safety issues or highlight safety concerns during disciplinary meeting. Applicant’s evidence regarding incident contradictory. Unlikely Manager would have told applicant no consequences as result of fire. Respondent genuinely considered applicant’s explanation and had good reason for not accepting it. Respondent’s process fair and reasonable in circumstances. Incident occurred in aged care facility and respondent justified in concluding leaving fire unattended serious misconduct warranting summary dismissal. Dismissal justified.
Result Application dismissed ; No order for costs
Main Category Personal Grievance
Statutes ERA s103A;ERA s103A(3)(d)
Number of Pages 11
PDF File Link: 2013_NZERA_Auckland_376.pdf [pdf 234 KB]