31: Five Reasons Why Your Directive Documentation Might Not Be Working

In today’s episode of Transmit Safety, Aimee dives deep into a common workplace challenge - why people sometimes don't follow policies and procedures.

It doesn't matter the size of the organization, the organization has to ensure the health and safety of the employees. Now, when we think about that compliance standpoint, oftentimes policies and procedures are only followed when someone from corporate or an auditor is there.

Can you relate to spending hours crafting what you think is the perfect set of directive documentation, you have a fantastic procedure, only to find out through observations or feedback that people aren't following them. It can be frustrating. But fear not, I've got five reasons why your directive documentation might not be working and how to improve them.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Using clear and concise language to convey your message in documentation
• Involve employees in the creation and review of documentation
• Training is essential for ensuring that documentation is followed
• Ensure your documentation is regularly updated
• There needs to be accountability for not following policies and procedures

The Transmit Safety Podcast is here to help health and safety practitioners achieve a holistic approach to workplace health and safety so they can become impactful leaders and put the value of safety into action.

Resources and links

Today's episode was sponsored by Transmit Safety, a consulting business where I help streamline and simplify health and safety management systems through education, program development, audits, and coaching.

If you'd like to join the next cycle of Upgrade and Optimize, my group coaching program, go to: transmitsafety.com/program

Want to receive weekly content that will help you become the Health & Safety leader you want to be and stay up to date with me and Sir Reginald? Plug into the Transmit Safety Newsletter here.

Quotes from this episode

“Clear communication isn't just about the words, isn't just about what people are saying. It's what they're not saying when it comes to communicating your policies, your practices, your procedures, your standards”

“It's not enough to have a great document. You also need to ensure that people understand how to follow it. If you just assume that they're going to figure it out on their own. You're definitely setting yourself up for disappointment.”

“If there's no consequences for not following a policy or procedure, then why would people take them seriously? They may feel that they're there, but there's no repercussions. And if there's no repercussions, then why would they follow them?”

“Disciplinary action shouldn't be punitive. When done correctly, disciplinary action is a learning opportunity.“

Connect with Aimee Arsenault

Aimee Arsenault is a CRSP and CHSC. She is the founder of Transmit Safety, a business that helps you simplify and streamline health & safety management systems.

Linkedin: Aimee Arsenault
Instagram: @transmit.safety
Twitter: @transmitsafety
Website: transmitsafety.com