Q: A new machine operator is making the workplace unbearable. I have been tolerant because the quality of the pieces he makes is good. He has had several screaming arguments with co-workers. People that have been with me for 10 to 15 years are thinking of quitting or retiring solely because of this person. Even though we have been documenting his transgressions lately, I am still worried about the risk the business could face if I let him go. Can you help me?

A: "To maximize the opportunity to defend a challenged termination, management should address the concepts of notice (Did management warn the employee of problems?) and fairness (Did the worker have a sufficient opportunity to improve his or her performance?)," says employment attorney Howard Wexler.

Next, when conveying termination decisions, employers should try to have two management representatives present - one to convey the decision and one to witness the discussion, Wexler said. At that meeting, you should also have all appropriate forms and information regarding severance, benefits, future references and outplacement help, he said.

- Newsday