ATTICS International Misconduct, Grievance, and Disciplinary Policy
These policies are developed exclusively for ATTICS International. Any copying, sharing, or reuse without written consent is not permitted.
Purpose
ATTICS International is committed to maintaining a professional, ethical, respectful, and safe working environment.
- The purpose of this policy is to
- Define standards of conduct
- Provide a fair process for handling misconduct
- Provide a clear grievance reporting mechanism
- Ensure disciplinary actions are fair, transparent, and consistent
This policy protects staff, learners, clients, and organizational integrity.
Scope
This policy applies to:
- All ATTICS International employees
- Consultants and contracted experts
- Auditors, trainers, assessors, inspectors, and laboratory staff
- Administrative and support personnel
- Approved centre staff acting on behalf of ATTICS International
Policy Statement
ATTICS International shall:
- Treat all individuals fairly and respectfully
- Maintain zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, and unethical behavior
- Investigate grievances and misconduct impartially
- Apply disciplinary actions consistently
- Protect individuals raising grievances from retaliation
- Maintain confidentiality throughout proceedings
Standards of Conduct
All personnel must:
- Act honestly and professionally
- Follow company policies and procedures
- Maintain impartiality and avoid conflicts of interest
- Protect confidential information
- Respect colleagues, learners, and clients
- Follow health and safety rules
- Protect company property and reputation
Misconduct
Misconduct includes, but is not limited to:
- Dishonesty or fraud
- Breach of confidentiality or data protection
- Harassment, bullying, or discrimination
- Conflict of interest violations
- Examination or certification malpractice
- Negligence or repeated failure to follow procedures
- Misuse of company resources
- Damage to company reputation
Gross Misconduct includes:
- Fraud or corruption
- Disclosure of confidential client or learner data
- Bribery or inducement
- Physical violence or serious harassment
- Deliberate compromise of certification integrity
Gross misconduct may result in immediate termination.
Grievance Procedure
A grievance is any concern or complaint raised by staff regarding unfair treatment, workplace conditions, harassment, or professional issues.
Informal Resolution
Where possible, concerns should first be discussed with the immediate supervisor or manager.
Formal Grievance
If unresolved, a formal written grievance may be submitted to the HR / Quality Manager.
Investigation
- Grievances are acknowledged within 5 working days
- An impartial investigation is conducted
- The complainant is given opportunity to present their case
Outcome
- Findings and decisions are communicated in writing
- Corrective actions are implemented where required
Disciplinary Procedure
Investigation
- Alleged misconduct is reported and recorded
- An impartial investigation is conducted
- The individual is informed and allowed to respond
Disciplinary Hearing
- Conducted by an authorized disciplinary panel
- Evidence reviewed objectively
Disciplinary Actions
Depending on severity:
- Verbal warning
- Written warning
- Final written warning
- Suspension from duties
- Termination of employment or contract
Appeals
Any individual subject to disciplinary action may appeal the decision through the Complaints & Appeals Policy.
Confidentiality
All grievances, misconduct reports, and disciplinary actions are:
- Treated confidentially
- Stored securely
- Shared only with authorized persons
Protection from Retaliation
No individual shall suffer retaliation, discrimination, or disadvantage for raising a grievance or reporting misconduct in good faith.
Records
All grievance and disciplinary records are retained under the Document Retention & Secure Storage Policy.
Compliance with International Standards
This policy aligns with:
- ISO/IEC 17025 – Professional technical conduct
- ISO 9001:2015 – Fair and controlled management processes
- ISO 21001:2025 – Ethical educational governance
- ISO/IEC 17024:2012 – Protection of certification integrity
Approved By: Mr. Zaib Ali
Authorized Position: Head of Operations
