Human Resources Policy

This Human Resources Policy outlines ASAT LABS' commitment to creating a supportive, fair, and productive work environment. It establishes the framework for managing our most valuable asset—our people—through transparent policies and equitable practices.

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, interns, and volunteers engaged by ASAT LABS, regardless of their position, location, or employment status.

ASAT LABS follows a fair and transparent recruitment process:

ASAT LABS is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion:

• Non-Discrimination: No discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic
• Merit-Based Decisions: All employment decisions are based on qualifications, performance, and business needs
• Reasonable Accommodations: We provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities
• Harassment-Free Workplace: Zero tolerance for harassment, bullying, or intimidation
• Diversity Commitment: Active efforts to build and maintain a diverse workforce
• Equal Pay: Equal compensation for equal work regardless of gender or other factors

Any employee who believes they have experienced discrimination or harassment should report it immediately to HR or management. All complaints will be investigated promptly and confidentially.

Our performance management system supports continuous growth and development:

Performance Appraisal Process:

• Annual Reviews: Comprehensive performance evaluations conducted annually
• Mid-Year Check-ins: Informal reviews at 6 months to assess progress
• Probation Reviews: Formal evaluation at end of probationary period
• Goal Setting: SMART objectives aligned with organizational goals
• 360-Degree Feedback: Input from supervisors, peers, and direct reports where applicable
• Development Plans: Identification of training and development needs

Promotion & Career Development:

• Internal promotion opportunities advertised to existing staff first
• Clear career progression pathways and competency frameworks
• Professional development support including training and conferences
• Mentorship and coaching programs
• Skills development opportunities aligned with career goals

ASAT LABS provides comprehensive leave benefits to support work-life balance:

Annual Leave:

• 25 working days per year for full-time employees
• Pro-rated for part-time staff and during first year of employment
• Leave must be requested and approved in advance
• Up to 5 days can be carried forward to the next year
• Unused leave beyond carryover limit is forfeited

Sick Leave:

• 15 working days of paid sick leave per year
• Medical certificate required for absences exceeding 3 consecutive days
• Sick leave does not accumulate year to year
• Extended illness may require additional documentation

Parental Leave:

• Maternity Leave: 12 weeks paid leave for birth mothers
• Paternity Leave: 2 weeks paid leave for fathers/partners
• Adoption Leave: 8 weeks paid leave for adoptive parents
• Additional unpaid leave may be requested
• Flexible return-to-work arrangements available

Other Leave Types:

• Compassionate Leave: Up to 5 days for bereavement
• Study Leave: Support for work-related education
• Public Holidays: All Ugandan public holidays observed
• Unpaid Leave: Available at management discretion

ASAT LABS supports remote work arrangements where appropriate:

• Application Process: Employees must submit formal request with proposed schedule
• Equipment: Organization provides necessary equipment and technology
• Work Hours: Remote workers maintain regular working hours and availability
• Communication: Regular check-ins with manager and team required
• Performance Standards: Same performance expectations as office-based staff
• Security: Compliance with data protection and security policies mandatory
• Home Office: Suitable workspace with reliable internet connection required
• Review: Remote work arrangements reviewed periodically

Remote work is a privilege that may be revoked if performance standards are not met or business needs change.

We offer flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance:

• Flexible Hours: Variations in start and end times within core hours (9 AM - 4 PM)
• Compressed Week: Full-time hours in fewer days (e.g., 4-day week)
• Part-Time: Reduced hours with pro-rated salary and benefits
• Job Sharing: Two employees sharing one full-time position
• Hybrid Work: Combination of office and remote work

All flexible working requests are considered based on role requirements, team needs, and operational feasibility. Employees should discuss options with their manager and submit formal requests to HR.

ASAT LABS offers competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits:

Compensation:

• Competitive salaries based on role, experience, and market rates
• Annual salary reviews based on performance and budget
• Transparent salary bands for each position level
• Timely payment on last working day of each month

Benefits Package:

• Medical insurance for employee and dependents
• Retirement/pension contributions as per regulations
• Professional development allowance
• Transport allowance for eligible positions
• Mobile phone allowance for work-related communication
• Lunch provision or meal allowance

We prioritize the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of our employees:

• Mental Health Support: Access to counseling services and mental health resources
• Wellness Programs: Health screenings, fitness activities, and wellness workshops
• Work-Life Balance: Encouragement to maintain healthy boundaries and take regular breaks
• Stress Management: Resources and training on managing workplace stress
• Ergonomic Workspaces: Proper equipment and furniture to prevent injuries
• Team Building: Regular social activities to build camaraderie and morale

Employees experiencing wellbeing challenges are encouraged to speak with their manager or HR in confidence. We are committed to providing appropriate support and reasonable accommodations.

All employees are expected to maintain professional standards of conduct:

Code of Conduct:

• Professional behavior and communication at all times
• Respect for colleagues, beneficiaries, and partners
• Punctuality and regular attendance
• Compliance with all organizational policies
• Protection of organizational assets and reputation
• Confidentiality of sensitive information

Disciplinary Process:

• Verbal Warning: First step for minor infractions
• Written Warning: Documented warning for repeated or serious issues
• Final Warning: Last opportunity to improve before termination
• Suspension: Temporary suspension during investigation of serious allegations
• Termination: Dismissal for gross misconduct or failure to improve

Grievance Procedure:

Employees who have concerns or complaints should first discuss with their immediate supervisor. If unresolved, formal written grievances can be submitted to HR. All grievances are investigated fairly and confidentially.

For questions about HR policies, benefits, or workplace concerns, please contact our Human Resources team: