Workplace Policies and Procedures Checklist - NSW Industrial Relations (2024)

FAQs

How workplace systems policies and procedures can support effective work relationships? ›

Workplace policies often reinforce and clarify standard operating procedure in a workplace. Well written policies help employers manage staff more effectively by clearly defining acceptable and unacceptable behaviour in the workplace, and set out the implications of not complying with those policies.

Workplace policies and procedures are often developed and used together. Workplace policies are written statements that help to establish a clear understanding of the behaviour and performance standards expected of employers and employees. Workplace procedures are step-by-step instructions for routine tasks.

Your policies should align with your organization's mission, vision, and values, as well as those of your senior leadership. So any time you have a change in strategic direction, new leadership, a merger, or your company is purchased by another, you should review your policies and procedures.

When employees follow procedures, they perform tasks correctly and provide consistent customer service. This enhances the quality of your organization's products and services. And, in turn, improves your company's reputation. Employees can know they are fulfilling their roles and take pride in their work.

Workplace relationship policy example

Policy details: We understand that workplace relationships do occur, and we do not prohibit relationships between employees from different departments or between employees at the same professional level. We ask that the parties involved notify HR.

Let's look at an example, requesting vacation time, to better understand the difference between policy and procedure. The vacation policy determines how much PTO an employee is eligible to take. The procedure lists the steps involved to get PTO approval, or what factors determine who gets priority days off.

An example of a workplace policy that promotes consistency is a dress code, which describes the employer's definition of acceptable appearance for all members within the organization. By extension, such policies can also promote fairness by defining the allowances given to employees.

The policy should clearly tell the audience why it exists, who it affects, major conditions and restrictions, when and under what circ*mstances it applies, and how it should be executed. “Terms of Art” should be clearly defined for the reader under the “Definitions” section. Check for accuracy and compliance.

Human resources professionals often play a role in developing and formalizing company policies and procedures, especially in larger small businesses. This is part of why HR directors often participate as part of the company executive management team in strategy and planning meetings.

Who writes policies and procedures for a company? ›

A: The Human Resources (HR) department is typically responsible for writing employee policies and procedures for a company. They ensure that the policies are compliant with labor laws and industry regulations.

there are so many topics to choose from. But one important skill is often overlooked: policy drafting. Yes, policy drafting is a skill. Too many organizations take their Subject Matter Experts and task them with writing policies, standards, and procedures without ever providing them training on how to do that.

Examples of effective policy statements include mandating antivirus protection on all computers, restricting server configurations to designated functions, and necessitating formal approval for data access, which can influence personal behavior in the workplace.

Present the policy's primary principles and rules concisely. Use clear language to avoid misinterpretation and make it easy for readers to understand. If necessary, include detailed procedures or guidelines that help employees adhere to the policy effectively. Use bullet points or numbered lists to improve readability.

A professional work relationship is built on trust. Team members should also respect one another, and be inclusive in considering different opinions. Self-awareness and open communication are key to making this work.

There's a hierarchy. A policy sets the goal. A process provides the broad steps to get to that goal. The procedure tells us exactly how to complete each step in the process.

A procedure is the counterpart to a policy; it is the instruction on how a policy is followed. It is the step-by-step instruction for how, when, and where the policies outlined above will be achieved. A policy defines a rule, and the procedure defines who is expected to do it and how they are expected to do it.