True or False: Personal relationships with coworkers that negatively impact the work environment may lead to disciplinary actions.

The statement is true because personal relationships with coworkers can significantly influence the work environment, particularly in a team-oriented setting like a fire department. If these relationships lead to conflicts, favoritism, or a breakdown in communication and teamwork, they can undermine the effectiveness and safety of the operations.

Disciplinary action may be warranted when the negative impact of such relationships is observed or reported. This is especially crucial in a profession where collaboration and trust among team members are vital for safety and performance. The organization has a responsibility to maintain a professional atmosphere, and when personal relationships disrupt this, they can create grounds for disciplinary measures.

Other options do not adequately capture the wide-ranging implications of personal relationships in a workplace. While reporting can certainly trigger an investigation, the potential for consequences exists regardless of whether an issue has been formally reported. Similarly, while probationary periods are critical evaluation times for new employees, negative personal relationships can affect all employees and are not limited to those undergoing probation.