Policies and procedures

Rules are implemented in the workplace through the employment contract, policies and procedures. The employment contract is the basis of the relationship between the employer and the employee and states the terms and conditions as agreed upon. This cannot be amended without proper consultation with the employee. Therefore the majority of rules in the workplace are implemented through policies and procedures.

What is a policy?

A policy informs employees of the rules in respect of a certain topic.

The employer puts these rules in place in order to ensure the smooth and efficient running of his/her business operations.  Policies are not underwritten by labour legislation, but define the employer’s own rules, which must be reasonable, for the workplace.

We strongly advise employers to include the following policies in the workplace:

• Code of conduct
• Smoking policy
• Sick leave policy
• Cell phone policy

What is a procedure?

A procedure is an established or official way of handling a situation, put in place to inform employees and employers alike, of the necessary steps when a certain incident occurs.

We strongly advise employers to include the following procedures in the workplace:

• Disciplinary code
• Appeal procedure
• Grievance procedure

It is important that the employer must be able to prove that the employees are aware of policies and procedures in order to apply discipline. 

Contact the LWO at 0861 101 828 for assistance and advice when implementing policies and procedures in the workplace.

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