Developing Working Instructions – a Guide for Managers 

Work instructions are important for ensuring that tasks are carried out safely and effectively. They should be clear, concise, and easy to understand, and they should consider all potential health and safety hazards.

Tips for developing work instructions: 

  • Identify the hazards associated with the task. This includes hazards from the physical environment, from the equipment, and from the materials being handled. 
  • Assess the risks. Assess the risks associated with each hazard. This involves considering the likelihood of an incident occurring and the severity of the consequences if it does. 
  • Implement controls. Implement controls to reduce the risks to a safe level. This may involve using personal protective equipment (PPE), modifying the work environment, or changing how the task is performed. 
  • Write the work instructions. The work instructions should include clear and concise instructions on how to perform the task safely. They should also include any specific safety precautions that need to be taken. 
  • Train the workers on how to follow the work instructions safely. 
  • Monitor and review. If there are any changes to the task or the work environment, the work instructions may need to be updated. 
  • Use plain language which is easy to understand. 
  • Avoid using jargon or technical terms. 
  • Use visuals, such as diagrams or photographs, to help explain the instructions. 
  • Be specific and provide step-by-step instructions. 
  • Highlight any potential hazards and how to avoid them. 
  • Ensure the work instructions are written in a manner that can be easily followed by anyone who needs to use them. 

 

By following these guidelines, you can write working instructions which help to prevent accidents and injuries in the workplace. 

The iProtectU health and safety software provides: 

  • An inspection and Audit App which allows for safety inspection of the workplace and associated report 
  • eLearning on a wide range of EHS topics 
  • Scheduling functionality for managers to send eLearning, risk assessments and documents out to all staff via the software with tracks completion and compliance 
  • Risk assessment templates covering work activities 
  • Management system to document control the policy on working instructions 
  • Method Statement module for the creation of working instructions 
  • Legal register that provides legislation guidance on working instructions 
  • Incident investigation module that tracks incidents both with an app and via desktop 
  • Hazard observation app where staff can report and record any concerns regarding the work activity or working instructions to the organisation 
  • Asset management App ensuring assets are recorded in the software 

 

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