Manager who accidentally exposed himself during a virtual meeting loses his case for unfair dismissal. Alan Lewis comments on the case in People Management

A man working as a digital production manager for the Financial Services Compensation Scheme has lost his claim for unfair dismissal and race discrimination, after he accidentally exposed his genitals during a Microsoft Teams meeting.

The Claimant's argument that the usual dress code did not apply as the meeting took place during a bank holiday, was dismissed.

While the tribunal accepted that the exposure may not have been intentional, it ruled that accidental lapses can still constitute misconduct, especially when basic precautions aren’t taken.

Commenting on the case in People Management, Alan Lewis pointed out that just one lapse of judgment could have implications for an employer, especially when, as in this case, external contractors were present on the call. Alan also urged employers to ensure they have a robust working from home code of conduct policy in place.

Read the full article here.