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Outline the use of communications, IT equipment and resources
Inform staff members about data protection practices
Manage the environmental impacts of your business
Outline the rules on social media use at work
Conduct and record a fire risk assessment
Set out how you prevent workplace bribery and corruption
Set out your workplace policies in one consolidated document
Inform staff members about whistleblowing law and procedures
Set out how your organisation protects its beneficiaries
Let staff members know how AI can be used in your workplace
Business policies FAQs
The increased use of technology and IT means that employees have to be aware of any rules or policies relating to the use of IT and any IT equipment. It's important that all the members of staff understand how they are permitted to use company IT systems and devices. This can be important for various reasons, including sticking to data usage policies and keeping bills down, as well as ensuring that employees do not spend too much time using IT for personal activities and focus on their professional responsibilities. A well-written Communications and equipment policy will clearly outline to managers and staff all the relevant rules and procedures. It can also detail any monitoring that takes place, if applicable, and may refer to your Data protection policy. For more information, read Employee use of IT.
An important risk facing businesses is the posting of anything via a social media platform which is potentially damaging for a company. This risk can be reduced with the adoption of a Social media policy, which sets out what is and isn't acceptable in respect of social media usage and postings. Bullying via social media can also be a problem in the workplace and another matter which can be covered by such a policy. For more information, read Employees and social media.
The increasing prevalence of IT has created various challenges with regard to the protection of private or personal data. A Data protection and data security policy gives assurance to your staff and clients that their data is being handled in accordance with relevant laws and securely managed. It also sets out the responsibilities of employees when processing the data of your customers. Employers should also inform employees about the types of data they might collect about them and what they do with it in an Employee privacy notice. This is a statement detailing how you collect, use, retain and disclose personal information.
For more information, read Data protection and employees.
An Environmental policy makes a statement about a company's commitment to preserving the environment. It will help a business comply with any environmental laws, keep employees informed about their environmental roles and responsibilities and minimise harm to the environment. For more information, read Environmental policy, How to make your business environmentally sustainable and How to create an environmentally sustainable workplace.
The Bribery Act 2010 places certain obligations on businesses. These include the obligation to avoid bribes and corruption in the workplace. It is crucial that businesses take steps to tackle and prevent bribery and corruption as they may be liable for the actions of any employees (and other relevant parties), even if these were done without the business’ knowledge. It is a good idea to implement an Anti-bribery and corruption policy to comply with the relevant anti-bribery laws.
For more information, read Workplace anti-bribery rules.