A policy is a set of rules or guidelines for your organization and employees to follow in or to achieve compliance. Policies answer questions about what employees do and why they do it
Every business should have some policies and procedures to govern their daily business operations and to protect the business and their employees. Procedures for each business can differ depending on the products and/or services provided. Business critical policies and procedures are as follows.
Health and safety
Every business should be committed to offering a healthy and safe working environment for all employees and visitors. Employees are advised to abide by the safety rules provided and report unsafe practices to the supervisors immediately. Occupational safety and health in Malaysia is covered by the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1994 (OSHA 1994), along with the Factories and Machinery Act 1967 (“FMA 1967”) and the Petroleum (Safety Measures) Act 1984. However, the OSHA 1994 is the primary reference in Malaysia due to its widespread coverage of employees, with the following industries covered by the Act:
1. Quality
Businesses should strive to offer quality goods and services to the clients. Products offered should meet the customers’ expectations and even surpass their expectations. Quality services and products establish a good reputation and will build a successful business.
2. Environment
Businesses should be committed to minimising their impact on their environment, from simple recycling process to sophisticated water and waste management techniques. Businesses should invest in projects that are aimed to improve the environment.
3. Code of conduct
Employees should act legally, ethically, and work for the best interest of the business. A code of conduct within the business should guide employees on how to deal with a wide variety of ethical situations. A code of conduct directs employees on how to relate to each other, customers and potential business partners and networks.
4. Corporate social responsibility
This is a strategic decision where businesses undertake an obligation to the society. For instance, a business may offer sponsorship to the community, take care of the environment. This is not necessary for profit maximisation, but to better the welfare of the public.
5. Employment
Managing your employees and ensuring they understand the position within the business is of critical importance. Employees need to understand how Performance Reviews are conducted, the process for rehabilitation, safe working conditions, compensation to workers injured at work, non-discrimination at workplaces, and termination conditions.
6. Purchasing
Businesses must value their suppliers, treat them fairly, honestly, offer fair tenders, offer reasonable terms of payment and pay them in good time. Employees also need to understand what are considered work expenses, how goods for the business are purchased and what is the purchasing process?
7. The Internet and E-mail
Internet and email is a necessary part of our daily business. Having internet and email policies and procedures provide employees with guidance on what is expected behaviour and acceptable use. Business should also consider having guidelines on Social Media usage within the business.
8. Equal opportunities
Businesses should offer equal employment opportunities. When hiring employees, there should be no discrimination because of color, gender, race, or disability. Guidelines should also include on how your business handles situations that include a Handicap, Pregnancy, or overall Diversity.
9. Customer service
High quality customer service is the core of every successful business. Good customer service helps businesses prosper and loyal customers often return time and time again, hence increasing sales.
Developing a good working operational model will motivate employees to and develop company standards. Business policies drive home what is important to the company and allows business owners and managers to communicate and enforce company policy.
