A circulating memo sparked debate about whether workplaces can ban Valentine's Day gifts. Labor law expert Anton Myburgh weighs in on the legality and implications of such policies.
Valentine's Day is approaching, and South Africans may be thinking about what they will be sending their loved ones to show them love. While people may be expecting gifts, the question of whether workplaces will ban employees from getting gifts from their loved ones on Valentine's Day may also arise. A memo circulating on Facebook stated that no Valentine's Day gifts are allowed within the premises of a company.
This memo, although circulating on Facebook, suggests a company policy prohibiting Valentine's Day gifts on company grounds. While this may seem unusual, ultimately, the workplace can decide on what is and is not allowed at the workplace. Personal items that are not work-related delivered to the company's premises may be blocked.According to labour law expert, Anton Myburgh, those expecting a gift should not worry if their spouse sends them a bouquet of red roses or a box of chocolates on Valentine's Day. If your spouse sends something at work, the company can block it, but they can't take any action against the employee. Even if the employee sent something to themselves, the company will be limited in the actions they choose to take. Any action taken must be fair, and questions like what the operational impact of a contravention is and whether the rule is reasonable need to be taken into account.Myburgh explained that workplaces can impose limits on what is allowed to be brought onto the premises but not outside of the workplace in general. What needs to be taken into account is whether the gifts are welcomed, or could there be potential harassment? The purpose of the gift could also be to gain some favour or advantage in the workplace, which could constitute bribery.
Valentine's Day Workplace Gifts Company Policies Labor Law Bribery
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