Dereliction of Duty is a charge that refers to an intentional or conscious failure of an employee to do his/her duty.

Examples of dereliction of duty include situations where the employee:

  • Abandons an asset of the employer in a place where it is at risk. For instance, a company driver might leave the company vehicle in order to visit a friend despite being well aware that the location is a crime-ridden neighbourhood.
  • Ignores the client he/she is supposed to be serving in order to finish off the cashing up or administrative work early.
  • Knowingly fails to switch on the safety device of a machine operated by a subordinate or colleague.
  • Downloads data from a website that the employee knows is infested with viruses.
  • Fails to implement the spyware security procedures because he/she is in a hurry to leave.
  • Deserts his/her post as a security officer without an acceptable reason.
  • Gives the strongroom keys to an unauthorised person in order to be able to go on a long lunch.

Dereliction of duty cannot simply be used in every case where employees have performed their work poorly or failed to carry out instructions. Such problems can very often result not from intentional or conscious decisions but from lack of skill, faulty equipment, misunderstanding of the instruction or other reasons.

For further information you can contact Bernard Reisner:
W. Tel: 021 423 3959
Fax: 021 423 2105
Cell: 082 433 3959
Email: bernard@capelabour.co.za

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Dereliction of duty in South Africa refers to the intentional, willful, or negligent failure of an employee or official to perform their assigned tasks. This misconduct can result in serious consequences, as it involves a conscious abandonment of responsibilities.

In South Africa, dereliction of duty is considered a serious offence that requires proof of clearly defined duties that were willfully neglected. It can apply to various sectors, including public service, where adherence to duty is crucial.

An example of dereliction of duty could be a security officer deserting their post without an acceptable reason, leaving the area unprotected. Another instance is an employee failing to implement necessary safety protocols, knowingly putting others at risk.

These actions demonstrate a willful neglect of responsibilities, which can lead to disciplinary actions. Such examples highlight the importance of adhering to one's duties, especially in roles with significant responsibilities.

Dereliction of duty involves a willful or negligent failure to perform assigned tasks, whereas poor performance might result from a lack of skill or understanding. Dereliction is a conscious choice to neglect duties, while poor performance can be unintentional.

In cases of dereliction, there is a clear abandonment of responsibilities, often requiring disciplinary action. Poor performance, on the other hand, may be addressed through training or support to improve skills and understanding.

Yes, dereliction of duty can apply to public servants who fail to perform their responsibilities intentionally or negligently. This misconduct can have severe implications, especially in public service roles where accountability is crucial.

Public servants are expected to adhere to high standards of duty, and any conscious neglect can lead to disciplinary actions. It is essential for public officials to understand their responsibilities and perform them diligently to avoid such charges.