CPM Workplace Investigation & Documentation 2

Question 1

When a manager receives a harassment complaint, what is the FIRST action they should take?

Accepted Answer

Notify HR and preserve all relevant evidence

Answer

The first step is to notify HR and preserve evidence to ensure a proper, unbiased investigation can proceed.

Question 2

Which documentation practice best protects an employer during a workplace investigation?

Accepted Answer

Creating contemporaneous written records with dates and signatures

Answer

Contemporaneous records created at the time of events with proper dating and signatures carry the strongest evidentiary weight.

Question 3

A witness refuses to cooperate with a workplace investigation. What should the investigator do?

Accepted Answer

Document the refusal and explore other evidence sources

Answer

Documenting the refusal and pursuing alternative evidence sources keeps the investigation thorough and legally defensible.

Question 4

What does 'chain of custody' mean in the context of a workplace investigation?

Accepted Answer

A documented record of who handled evidence and when

Answer

Chain of custody tracks every person who handled evidence, ensuring it has not been tampered with or altered.

Question 5

An employee claims their termination was retaliatory after filing an internal complaint. Which document would MOST help defend the company?

Accepted Answer

Performance records predating the complaint

Answer

Pre-existing performance documentation demonstrates that termination was based on legitimate, documented concerns unrelated to the complaint.

(CPM) Certified People Manager Practice Test