The written warning is the second stage of progressive discipline. Relevant information from previous verbal warnings and counseling sessions can be used to substantiate the written warning. The request for a predisciplinary hearing is the third step in progressive discipline. The supervisor requests that an impartial third party from Human Resources conduct a hearing to investigate the matter to determine what discipline, if any, should take place. Predisciplinary hearing decisions can range from no discipline to termination.
Progressive discipline can be a frustrating, lengthy, time-consuming, yet necessary, process.
You gave him a project to complete, but he is telling you that his trick knee has flared up and he can't do it. It really does give him problems, and he can't help that. Perhaps you should reassign him to easier tasks. To lessen your expectations of Kent's performance could cause you to discriminate against his coworkers. Performance expectations should only be changed for physical limitations upon the recommendation of Human Resources in conjunction with a physician.