Workplace policies and procedures for employers and employees

Workplace policies and procedures are dynamic tools that benefit both employers and employees.

Workplace policies communicate standard procedures applicable at a workplace to employees, whilst assisting employers to discharge their legal obligations in relation to:

workplace health and safety;
discrimination;
workplace bullying; and
sexual harassment.

Workplace policies clarify a company’s culture, employee entitlements and expectations relating to behavior and performance of employees in the workplace.

How can we help you?

Talk to us today and our employment team will provide you with expert legal advice about the following:

What policies should you introduce in your business;
Common types of workplace policies;
Drafting policies and procedures to suit your needs;
Reviewing existing policies to comply with legislative obligations; and
Communicating policies to your employees.

Why are policies and procedures important?

Well written policies assist you to effectively manage employees, as they outline a company’s standard procedures and processes. Most importantly, workplace policies assist you to maintain uniformity, fairness, and consistency in decision-making processes. Although workplace policies will not automatically protect you from an unfair dismissal claim, such a claim is more likely to fail if appropriate company policies are followed.

What are common types of workplace policies?

The following types of workplace policies are very common for most businesses:

Code of conduct;
Workplace health and safety;
Anti-discrimination;
Workplace bullying and harassment;
Privacy;
Employee entitlements;
Discipline and termination of employment;
Complaints and grievances;
Internet, social media and email;
Smoking, drug and alcohol; and
Use of company property.

What are common mistakes?

A common mistake is when an employer fails to advise their employees about a new or reviewed policy. Policies and procedures, to be effective, should be published and distributed to all employees (including casual or part-time employees). Best practice is to communicate policies to employees during a training session and to offer the opportunity for questions to be answered.

Another mistake occurs when employers maintain policies that no longer comply with legislation or are not up to date with the company’s structure. Regular review of your policies is necessary to ensure that they are fully compliant.

In addition, employers must ensure that their company’s policies and procedures are followed. It is important to apply policies and procedures consistently throughout the organisation. Any breach should be handled in a timely matter whilst following your own procedures. Failure to do so can be a big mistake.