human resources policies

What is an HR Policy?

HR policies have always been a staple within HR Departments. Now, in the information age, it is expected that organizations understand what their stance is on HR matters, and execute it in a way that is respectful, just, and effective.

human resource policy

According to Wikipedia, Human Resource policies are continuing guidelines on the approach of which an organization intends to adopt in managing its people.   They represent specific guidelines to HR, leadership and managers on various matters concerning employment and state the intent of the organization on different aspects of Human Resource management such as safety, recruitment, promotion, compensation, training, selections etc. 

They therefore serve as a reference point when human resources management practices are being developed or when decisions are being made about an organization’s workforce.

Every company is unique and will build their policies and practices around the culture that they want to create for themselves and their staff.  For example, with BC’s new laws, marijuana policies are becoming far more common as organizations determine their needs on site for their teams.

Not every organization will need every policy. For example, collective bargaining only pertains to union environments.

Some examples of basic HR policies include the following forms:

  1. Time Management Policy
  2. Sick Leave Policy
  3. Vacation Policy
  4. Health and Safety Policy
  5. WHIS Policy
  6. Hazard-Specific Policy and Procedures
  7. Drug and Alcohol Policy
  8. Smoking Policy
  9. Whistleblower Policy
  10. Equal Opportunity Employment Policy
  11. Anti-Discrimination and Harassment and Bullying Policy
  12. Termination Policy
  13. Employment Classification Policy
  14. At will Employment Policy?
  15. Code of Conduct/ Work Rules Policy
  16. Conflict of Interest Policy
  17. Non-Disclosure & Confidentiality Policy
  18. Privacy Policy
  19. Travel and Expense Policy
  20. Substance Abuse Policy
  21. Communication and Technology Use Policy
  22. Progressive Discipline Policy
  23. Severance Policy
  24. Employment Policy
  25. Recruiting Policy
  26. Performance Appraisal Policy
  27. Wage / Salary Administration Policy
  28. Promotion, transfer and posting policy
  29. Pregnancy / Disability Policy
  30. Attire and or professional Dress Policy
  31. Complaint Resolution Policy
  32. Employment of Relative Policy

human resources policies

  1. Conflict of Interest Policy
  2. Remote Working Policy
  3. Domestic Violence Policy
  4. Emergency Preparedness and Response Policy
  5. Personal Information Policy
  6. Psychological Harassment Policy
  7. Pay Equity Policy and Plan
  8. New or Young Worker Orientation Policy
  9. Social Media Policy
  10. Hours of Work and Attendance Policy
  11. Overtime Policy
  12. Employment Standards Policy
  13. Flexible Work Arrangements / Telcommuting Policy
  14. Group Benefits Plan Policy: Health and Life Insurance
  15. Hiring Policy
  16. Learning and Development Policy

The benefits of implementing HR Policies in a business is that employees understand policies and procedures for the day-to-day operations.  Human Resource policies provide clear communication between staff while treating everyone equally through guidelines.

employee handbook

With HR policies, business can develop an employee handbook for staff to refer to for day-to-day clarification on specific issues.

Canadian and American policies will differ. Many of our clients at Career Contacts have employees that are in both countries. It is important to understand the legal requirements associated with policies and how they differ from country to country.

Ensuring that the policies are equitable and still legal are both important factors to consider.

Please feel free to contact our team at Career Contacts to discuss creating your customized solutions for HR Policies and Practices.

Related Post: What is HR?