General Requirements for Creating a Policy

1. List some general requirement when creating a policy?
The general requirements for creating a WHS policy is people with positive mind set. The
purpose of the policy that explains the goals of the policy. The scope of the policy which tells
that for whom the policy pertains that depends upon the size of the organization. The statement
that the policy wants to communicate. The procedures and responsibility that states who will do
what, and who will perform which task. There are various terms in policy that needs to be
defined or stated clearly. While creating a policy the policy maker should check any previously
implemented policy or any exception to it.
2. When creating a WHS policy which questions should be asked to ensure organizational
requirements and appropriateness has been met?
1. WHS program is introduced and maintained to ensure that all workplace hazards are
identified.
2. The WHS program is monitored and reviewed to take account of changing conditions and
circumstances at the workplace.
3. Employees and their representatives are consulted on WHS issues relevant to them.
4. All relevant documentation relating to WHS issues is made available to employees and
their representatives.
5. All work systems, plant and substances are subjected to testing and comprehensive risk
management processes prior to their introduction.
6. All necessary registration, certification and licensing requirements are complied with.
7. All necessary inspections, maintenance, repairs, cleaning, modifications and
housekeeping are undertaken in a timely manner.
3. List both the internal and external factors which can affect the development and review of
a policy?
The factors that influence the development and review of a policy are knowledge and
innovation by creating awareness of new opportunities. Political, social and economical
factors will impact the development and review of a policy. The legal framework, the
specific laws related to the workplace health and safety. External factors like donors,
international agreements and treaties, media and events. Public opinion can be one of the
major influencing factors in the way of developing the policy. The technological changes
can have an impact on the review system of policies.
4. Give examples of barriers to WHSMS implementation and strategies to overcome them.
Barriers can be Staff ignoring health and safety, costs of safety implementation, avoiding
responsibility, not consulting personnel, over complicated system, infrastructure, training, and
attitude. Train the staff explaining them the reasons for the system in place and justify it;
incentives and rewards to the staff for participating in training; planning the system for the long
haul to contain the costs; consult the staff and involve them in the system; make the system