Bumping

Meaning & Definition

Bumping is a process that allows employees with higher ranking or tenure to be placed into the job role being vacated by the employee with the lower ranking during layoffs or restructuring, or downsizing that involves eliminating positions that employ a lower-skilled worker.

Important features of Bumping

• Provides protection for long-serving employees and those with higher levels of ranking.
• Provides that excess will be planned and structured, and is transparent.
• Relocates potential legal liabilities and employee relations issues related to layoffs and excessness.
• Provides for the selection of qualified and experienced employees for vacant positions.
• Ensures that all employees are treated fairly and consistently through defined criteria for application.

Legal & Regulatory Considerations

The concept of Governance & Policy Alignment has nothing to do with any individual or group within an organisation and does not have any direct statutory requirements. 

The policies that deal specifically with bumping practices include:

• History of Continuous Employment policies.
• Role Eligibility policies.
• Union Agreements (if applicable) or Standing Orders.

It is important to provide clear documentation and to effectively communicate those policies to help minimise disagreements.