Frequently Asked Questions: Employee Review of Personnel Files
Q: Which offices maintain personnel files for Vanderbilt employees?
A: The office of Human Resource Records Management maintains the official employment records for Vanderbilt employees.
Q: Can an employee see their personnel file?
A: Yes. An employee who wishes to see their personnel record should contact the Human Resources Consultant for their area to arrange for a mutually convenient time to review appropriate material.
Q: When can the file be reviewed?
A: An employee may review their record in the presence of a Human Resources staff member during regular business hours.
Q: Can a staff member receive a copy of their personnel record?
A: Yes. An employee may review or receive a copy of their personnel file free of charge. Once a Personnel File Request form is completed and an employee specifies the type of documents that they would like to receive a copy of. Human Resources will coordinate a pick up time for copies of all requested documents with the employee’s personnel file.
Q: What is the appropriate material available for review?
A: The following material is available for review by an employee: Vanderbilt application form, offer letter, performance plans, discipline letters, authorization for deductions, employment history – including salary information. Required certifications, performance development documents, including orientation records. Mandatory continuing education records, benefits information (maintained in separate record) and job related certifications.
Q: What material is excluded from review?
A: The following material is excluded from review by an employee: Documents relating to the investigation of possible criminal offenses or violation of university policy, letters of reference, medical information related to leave certification, I-9 documentation, and any other documents that Vanderbilt considers confidential, proprietary or privileged.
Q: Can a manager who is considering hiring an employee review the employee's record prior to making a decision?
A: Yes. Again the manager should contact the Human Resources Consultant to arrange for the review. The reviewing of the record does not substitute from speaking with the current manager and giving the required reference checks.
Q: Can a manager review a current employee’s record?
A: Yes. The manager should contact the Human Resources Consultant to make the arrangements.
Q: Can records be removed from the record?
A: No. Records cannot be removed from a file; however, an employee may submit a rebuttal if they disagrees with material found in the record.
Q: Can a former employee view their personnel record?
A: A former employee cannot view their personnel record, but a copy of the entire personnel file can be purchased by signing a release form and providing a duplication fee of $2.00/page.