We believe that organizations should have a tool that helps them explain their expectations to employees. A well written policy conveys the expectation, provides guidance to employees, and provides clarity to both employee and employer. Policies should be compliant with legislation and align with the culture, values, and mission of the organization.
We recommend that employers consider putting the following policies in place in order to remain compliant and establish the expectations:
These policies should be drafted so they are compliant with all applicable legislation and reference to the manual should be made in the employment contract.
Here is a sample checklist to review policies in your own organization. Please note that you may not need all these policies. Policy Checklist
We recommend that employers consider putting the following policies in place in order to remain compliant and establish the expectations:
- General Workplace Safety policy (includes WHMIS)
- Leave of Absence policy
- Vacation policy
- Holidays
- Privacy policy
- Duty to Accommodate policy
- Violence/Harassment policy
- Attendance policy
- Performance Management
- Overtime policy
- Code of Conduct
- Pay Administration
These policies should be drafted so they are compliant with all applicable legislation and reference to the manual should be made in the employment contract.
Here is a sample checklist to review policies in your own organization. Please note that you may not need all these policies. Policy Checklist
7 Reasons Why
Here are 7 reasons why HR policies and procedures manuals benefit managers and employees in all organizations:
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- They alleviate uncertainty
- They set the foundation for consistent and equitable treatment of people in the workplace
- They provide clarity of purpose and direct action
- They help to mitigate risk when disputes arise between the employer and employee. In fact, courts often look to company policies when rendering decisions
- They establish expected conduct and behaviours in the workplace and consequences if conduct falls outside the established policy
- They save time and contribute to organizational efficiency and well-being because time isn’t wasted debating courses of action
- They streamline administrative duties by providing clear direction
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