Dear colleagues,
Regarding the events on the weekend of 25-27 Nov 2022, we have learned about series of events that resulted in a physical altercation among some of our colleagues occurring on the company premises in Taulov. We have thoroughly investigated the incident and our conclusions are the following:
- The root causes of these series of unfortunate events are, once again, the breach of the zero-tolerance alcohol and drugs consumption policy on the company premises. As a result of this breach, the behaviour exhibited by one of our new colleagues was characterised by a lack of professional courtesy towards you, the other colleagues. The involvement of authorities (the Police) has further affected the reputation of Anneberg Transport since this was the second such incident.
- As per our current understanding, during a screening of a sporting event, one of the new colleagues, has become intoxicated and ended up engaging in a behaviour more suitable for a stadium than a workplace. The plethora of harsh words and swears were used and as a result some colleagues, not attending the screening took offence. A number of colleagues ended up signing and submitting to management a declaration that they do not want the new colleague as part of the collective.
- Since the screening and the event after-party was taking place in the common kitchen... the access and usage of the premise by other colleagues was severely restricted. As a result of the subsequent protest from group of colleagues which just arrived for the airport after a long trip, the new colleague was ‘helped out’ of the kitchen, after an intense verbal conflict. The new colleague, decided to take a stand and called the police.
- The next day, since the new colleague did not agree with the results of the summary visit of the police officers, he decided to clarify the situation and make it right by his own standards. While the accounts of the events, left a number of details intentionally unclear, the new colleague ended up being tackled, fell on the floor, and got taught (by physical means) a lesson on collective courtesy.
We strongly condemn any form of workplace violence and recognize the serious consequences that can result from it. As shown repeatedly, the recreational consumption of alcohol on company premises, can impair judgment, lead to inappropriate behavior, and contribute to a hostile work environment. It is essential for all employees contributes to maintain a safe and respectful workplace for the well-being and productivity of all individuals, including outside working hours. We are committed to providing a safe and secure workplace for all employees. Any form of physical violence, including but not limited to hitting, pushing, shoving, kicking, or throwing objects, is strictly prohibited. Such behaviour will not be tolerated under any circumstances, and any employee found engaging in physical violence will be subject to immediate disciplinary action, up to and including termination. Additionally, any employee who witnesses or becomes aware of physical violence in the workplace must report it to management immediately, including through anonymous complaints and whistleblowing. It takes everyone’s efforts to maintain a pleasant and productive workplace and ensure the safety and well-being of all employees, but only one delinquent act to ruin it.
After a careful consideration, we decided to apply a series of disciplinary actions, to some of the colleagues according to their involvement as follows:
- A verbal warning for 12 colleagues who assisted the two events in which physical altercation occurred, for failure to adequately deescalate or at least intervene to stop the assault. We recognize that the unacceptable behaviour exhibited into an enabling environment, as a result all of you, the employees which were present in Taulov during the incident will have to attend a 90-minute, (i) cultural awareness; and (ii) work environment sensitization seminar.
- Three colleagues will receive a written warning, including the new colleagues who was at the core of the events.
- The new colleague will receive a one-year ban from Taulov premises, and two of the colleagues who were directly involved in the physical altercation will receive 12 weeks ban from the premises on Taulov.
- All those involved will be required to issue a public apology towards you, their fellow colleagues; As part of their professional development plan, they will be required to attend an individual anger management seminar or individual philological counselling.
- We are condemning in the strongest terms, the incident. It goes without saying that such a further escalation will result in immediate termination of employment for any of the colleagues involved.
We want to particularly mention and commend the colleagues who refrained from responding or engaging in a destructive manner with the situation. As per the collected statements, quite a number of colleagues on site acted proactively and repeatedly in deescalating the various situations. We trust that everyone will learn the proper lessons and we can only aim that such incidents will no further occur.