what is gross misconduct

Gross misconduct is a serious violation of workplace rules or policies that may result in immediate termination of employment. It is an act or omission that is flagrant and deliberate, and that substantially deviates from the standards of behavior that are commonly accepted within the workplace. Gross misconduct refers to employee behaviors that are so severe that they irreversibly damage the employer-employee relationship, thereby necessitating immediate gross misconduct dismissal without notice or pay in lieu of notice. Gross misconduct can be defined as any act or behavior that is considered to be serious enough to warrant disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Examples of gross misconduct include theft, fraud, physical violence, bullying, damaging company property, health and safety breaches, incapacity in the workplace due to drugs or alcohol, and serious insubordination. Outlining gross misconduct in writing helps employees understand what is expected of them and what would cause immediate termination of their employment.