Essential Company Policies: A Checklist for Every Organization

Not sure what counts as a policy? Start with our guide to organization policies: definition, purpose and examples. This checklist covers which ones most organizations need.

Ensuring policies and procedures are written (and followed) can help protect your company from non-compliance and expensive legal action.

The policy itself should include information about what it is about, why it is needed and who is responsible for it. Responsibility for a policy includes making sure everyone who needs to know about it is informed and also adheres to it.

Here is a list of some essential policies and procedures that are likely to be needed in your business.

Health and safety policy: This policy outlines the company's commitment to the health and safety of its employees, contractors, and visitors. It may include guidelines on risk assessments, hazard identification, accident reporting, and emergency procedures.

Equal opportunities policy: This policy outlines the company's commitment to promoting equal opportunities and diversity in the workplace. It may include guidelines on preventing discrimination and promoting inclusivity.

Data protection policy: This policy outlines the company's commitment to protecting the personal data of employees, customers, and other stakeholders. It may include guidelines on data collection, storage, use, and destruction.

Anti-bribery and corruption policy: This policy outlines the company's commitment to preventing bribery and corruption in all of its business activities. It may include guidelines on handling gifts and hospitality, and reporting suspected misconduct.

Employee code of conduct: This policy outlines the expectations and behaviors that are expected of employees while they are at work. It may include guidelines on professionalism, confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and social media use.

Absence management policy: This policy outlines the company's procedures for managing employee absences, including sick leave, vacation leave, and other types of absence. It may include guidelines on notification procedures, medical certification, and return-to-work requirements.

Disciplinary and grievance policy: This policy outlines the company's procedures for addressing employee misconduct and grievances. It may include guidelines on investigations, disciplinary action, and appeals.

Performance management policy: This policy outlines the company's procedures for managing employee performance, including setting performance goals, providing feedback, and conducting performance evaluations.

Recruitment and selection policy: This policy outlines the company's procedures for attracting, selecting, and onboarding new employees. It may include guidelines on job postings, resumes, interviews, and background checks.

Training and development policy: This policy outlines the company's commitment to providing employees with training and development opportunities. It may include guidelines on identifying training needs, developing training plans, and providing support for employee learning and development.