The formal grievance procedure is a key component in attaining sound industrial relations practices. The proper utilisation of this procedure by employees and management has the potential to obviate unnecessary confrontation and disruptive industrial action. It is a procedure designed to minimise conflict and to ensure a speedy and effective resolution of employee grievances. The importance of the grievance procedure cannot be overstressed. To this end, it is imperative that management and employees be trained to correctly utilise the procedure.