1.17 Insubordination
Failure or refusal to follow a Supervisor/Manager's instructions to perform assigned work or otherwise comply with applicable established policies, rules, General Orders, General Instructions, General Notices, Memorandums, or other SOP's will result in disciplinary action up to and/or including termination.
This is the reason we have to sign for every new change, we are acknowledgi...ng receipt and understanding of the rule. Or, if it is a verbal order, the Supervisor will ask, "Do you understand," or "are you refusing to do it?" These are keywords that they use to set you up for a charge of Insubordination. Officially, insubordination is when you have received and understood a direct order, but refuse to obey. Either you specifically say you refuse or simply do not complete the task. Even if you think it is unfair or improper, it’s still your responsibility to comply, you should be prepared to first complete the work, then file a formal grievance later. If you believe that fulfilling the order is illegal or will immediately endanger yourself or others, you should contact your Union Representative.
Everyone makes mistakes, even supervisors. An employee with a grievance over orders and procedures has the right to voice it without retaliation as long as you follow correct procedures. You should not hesitate to report anything illegal or discriminatory. However, protected activity does not give you the right to openly taunt your supervisor or refuse to follow orders. Never act upon emotion, and substantiate any report with evidence.
Everyone makes mistakes, even supervisors. An employee with a grievance over orders and procedures has the right to voice it without retaliation as long as you follow correct procedures. You should not hesitate to report anything illegal or discriminatory. However, protected activity does not give you the right to openly taunt your supervisor or refuse to follow orders. Never act upon emotion, and substantiate any report with evidence.