12 Things You Need To Know About The New Acas Code

1. When does it come into force?

6 April 2009

2. What does it replace?

The Acas Code (Code) will replace the statutory dismissal, disciplinary and grievance procedures which have been in place since 2004.

Unlike the statutory procedures the new Code is not legally binding and a failure to follow the Code will not automatically result in a penalty. However, Tribunals will expect parties to follow the Code.

3. What is the status of the new Code?

The Code has been approved and is now in its final form.

4. Who does the Code apply to?

As with the statutory procedures the Code applies only to employees in a legal sense (those who work for an employer under a contract of employment) and will not cover, for example, agency workers, self employed individuals or those employed under a contract for services.