General Workplace Policies

Workplace policies are important for a number of reasons. They provide a foundation for encouraging productivity through understanding performance standards, and framework for developing an employee handbook. Workplace policies also protect a company's assets.

Benefits

• Workplace policies benefit an organization's workforce because they establish work rules, procedures and processes that foster productivity. Workplace policies also support the employer's performance management system by explaining job expectations and performance standards. The most important benefit of workplace policies is, however, the support they lend to human resources staff in carrying out employment actions.

Types

• Policies concerning recruitment and selection processes demonstrate the employer's commitment to equal employment opportunity and fair employment practices. Workplace safety rules ensure the safe handling of equipment, machinery and hazardous materials. Other policies establish guidelines for employee behavior, attendance and conduct.

Insight

• Employee handbooks should contain up-to-date workplace policies, and every employee should sign an acknowledgment form for receipt and understanding of policies. This practice ensures employees adhere to the policies and provides the employer with proof of understanding of the workplace policies, should conflicts arise.