Reesby Academy · HR & Recruitment
Workplace Investigations: An Introduction
General introduction to fair, well-documented workplace investigations.
About this course
When a workplace concern is raised, how it is investigated matters as much as the outcome. This course introduces the stages of a fair investigation, including scoping and planning, gathering information, keeping good documentation and knowing when to bring in specialist help. It is general information only and not legal advice, so involve HR, an employment lawyer or a qualified investigator where the matter is serious or complex.
What you will be able to do
- You'll be able to explain the main stages of a workplace investigation and what each one involves
- You'll be able to scope and plan an investigation so it stays focused and proportionate
- You'll be able to gather information in a fair, procedurally sound way
- You'll be able to document an investigation accurately and recognise when to seek specialist advice
Course outline
- What an Investigation Involves8 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quizA workplace investigation is a structured process for finding out the facts about a concern, so a decision can be made fairly. It is not a trial, and it should be proportionate to the seriousness of the issue.
- Scoping and Planning10 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quizA clear scope and plan keep the investigation focused. Define the questions to answer, the people to speak to, the documents to review and the timeframe before you begin.
- Gathering Information Fairly10 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quizInformation must be gathered fairly, with each person given a genuine opportunity to respond. Procedural fairness protects the employee, the complainant and the organisation.
- Documentation Standards10 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quizGood documentation records what happened, when, who was involved and what evidence supports each finding. It protects everyone and makes the outcome defensible.
- When to Seek Specialist Advice10 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quizSome investigations are too serious, sensitive or legally complex for an internal team to manage alone. Knowing when to bring in an external investigator or employment lawyer protects everyone.
- Tools you'll need6 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quizInvestigations rely on secure storage, accurate notes and clear templates more than on specialist software. Use secure systems that restrict access and keep audit trails where possible.
- Careers & next steps6 min · Lesson notes, example, action task · 2-question quizInvestigation skills are used in HR, employee relations, compliance and risk roles. This lesson sets out where they lead and how to check what the work is worth.
- Final quiz and certificate10 questions, pass mark 8 of 10. Pass to get your Reesby Academy certificate with a verification link.