Policies are an essential resource for both management and employees as they help set the right expectations and prevent conflict in the workplace. Here are 5 reasons why it is important to have updated policies:
1) Compliance with Law
Policies help employers stay compliant with legislation and reduce risk. For example, the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 requires that employers maintain a safe working environment. By creating and implementing a health and safety policy an employer ensures that staff executes duties in a safe manner.
2) It Helps Protect You Against Claims of Unfair Labour Practices
Have a clear disciplinary process documented and ensure your staff have read and understood it. By following fair procedures an employer can avoid paying hefty amounts to an employee who has been terminated for a substantially fair reason. In contrast, not following fair procedure could result in a costly CCMA case.
3) Policies Set Standards of Behaviour
Consistency, communication and clear expectations are important to ensure a happy, productive workforce. Policies communicate expectations regarding what is considered appropriate behaviour at work and during working hours. It ensures consistency around how matters are dealt with.
4) It Helps Management
Policies give guidance to management on how to act. This in turn further enforces consistency throughout the business and reduces the chances of double standards arising when management engages with staff.
5) Guidance for Employees
Policies provide guidance to employees on how to act in a manner that ensures the physical and emotional wellbeing of colleagues and clients. It also provides information on how business should be conducted in the most cost effective manner.
No one expected the Coronavirus outbreak and its impact on business, yet it has become important for employers to implement a COVID-19 policy. Download your free COVID-19 policy here or contact Leapfrog HR for a customised policy.
Don’t delay, get your policies sorted today!