Absent Without Leave (AWOL)

Definition and Meaning:

AWOL stands for Absent Without Leave. A situation where an employee does not report to their job without any prior indication that they will not come in. AWOL has been viewed as an unapproved absence, and it can affect attendance records, payroll, and disciplinary actions according to the organisation’s policy.

Workplace Discipline 

• Attendance, presence, and payment effects from unauthorised employee absence
• Attendance tracking and Payroll processing.
• Possible loss deductions from a salary or leave.
• Impacts work force planning/ Productivity
• Documented through attendance systems used by HRMS only.

Legal Obligations

Any Absence Without Leave (AWOL) incident must adhere to all relevant HR Regulations as well as local and national law concerning:

• The Industrial Disputes Act: 1947 (Misconduct & Disciplinary Procedures)
• The Shops & Establishments Act: working hours and attendance records
• Certified Standing Orders and Attendance Policy

Documentation must be kept, and the correct process followed before taking subsequent steps.