As of October, all businesses regardless of size will be obliged to apply new documentation to manage disciplinary, dismissal and grievance procedures. The new steps-system will mean that employers will be exposed to costly Employment Tribunal claims if they fail to follow the correct procedures when dismissing staff.

Bristol-based human resources specialists, Crescent HR say that the new regulations will impose most pressure on small and medium sized businesses (SMEs).

“The new regulations could increase the number of industrial tribunal cases where firms are either unaware of the new requirements, or find it difficult to implement them,” comments Kevin Gould of Crescent HR.

“Many businesses do not have staff responsible for human resources or personnel issues, and we are handling an increasing number of enquiries from firms seeking guidance and advice.”

The warning comes on the back of findings by Peninsula employment law firm which show that 97% of businesses are unaware of the implications of the new statutory regulations.