This material is for training purposes only to inform the reader of occupational safety and health best practices and general compliance requirements and is not a substitute for provisions of the OSH Act of 1970 or any governmental regulatory agency. Effective Policies A Policy is a predetermined guide established to provide direction in decision making. It reflects top management goals and objectives objectives related to a given business function within the company. An effective policy is both educational and directive. It informs everyone about expected behaviors and standards and why they are important. It also assigns responsibility to perform certain duties or oversee people and programs. Are your policies effective? Use the criteria below to evaluate your company's safety policies. Are policies based on objective, factual information, or subjective hunches? Policies based on hunches occur most often in fear-driven corporate cultures. Are policies are different organizational levels complimentary or contradictory? Contradictory policies are common among government agencies. Do different functional areas coordinate with each other when developing policies? The safety committee can be a real help fulfilling this criteria. Are policies written in easy-to-understand language? Clear understanding is necessary to decrease anxiety about expectations. Do policies change frequently? Effective policies are stable and do not change often. Are policies flexible? Rigid policies reflect controlling management styles rather than thoughtful leadership. Do policies help managers and supervisors in decision-making? Policies should help them feel comfortable making daily decisions without having to call "the boss." Copyright © 2000-2008 Geigle Communications LLC . All rights reserved. Federal copyright law prohibits unauthorized reproduction by any means and imposes fines up to $25,000 for violations. disclaimer | Comment