HR Policies and Procedures

For many business owners, creating and maintaining comprehensive HR policies and procedures can be overwhelming. The complexities involved in understanding legal requirements, combined with the need to address various aspects of employee management, can be daunting. 


Add to that, HR policies and procedures must be reviewed and updated regularly to conform with changes to employment laws, industry standards, and organisational needs.


At MSS The HR People, we specialise in helping businesses develop, implement, and maintain effective HR policies and procedures. Our team of experts can guide you through the process, ensuring that your organisation remains compliant and that your employees are well-informed and protected.


Want to discuss how we can support your business? Contact us today.

What’s The Difference Between HR Policies and HR Procedures?

HR Policies are formal guidelines and rules that define how certain matters are managed within your organisation. These policies cover a wide range of topics, including workplace behaviour, diversity and inclusion, equal employment opportunities, how harassment and other formal complaints are handled, employee benefits, and disciplinary actions. These policies ensure that there is consistency in how employees are treated and provide a framework for decision-making.


HR Procedures, on the other hand, are the specific methods and processes used to implement these policies. Procedures outline the step-by-step actions that need to be taken to comply with HR policies. For example, if an HR policy states that all employees must undergo annual performance reviews, the HR procedure would detail the process for conducting these reviews.


Having HR policies and procedures for your business are crucial for several reasons:


  • They help ensure that your company is in compliance with all Irish employment laws and regulations thereby minimising the risk of legal disputes and penalties.
  • They make sure that employees are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities within your organisation by fostering a transparent and equitable work environment.
  • They provide a consistent approach to managing employees, which helps in maintaining fairness and reducing biases in decision-making.
  • Clear procedures streamline processes and ensure that tasks are completed in a systematic and efficient manner.



Contact us today to discuss how we can help create, audit or refresh your HR Policies and Procedures.

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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Policies and Procedures

  • Why are HR policies and procedures important?

    They ensure legal compliance, protect employee rights, provide consistency in decision-making, and improve organisational efficiency.

  • How often should HR policies and procedures be reviewed?

    HR policies and procedures should be reviewed at least annually or whenever there are significant changes in employment legislation, industry standards, or your specific organisational needs.

  • Can HR policies be customised for my business?

    Yes, HR policies should be tailored to fit the specific needs and circumstances of your business while ensuring compliance with legal requirements.


    What happens if my company does not

  • What happens if my company does not have proper HR policies and procedures in place?

    Lack of proper HR policies and procedures can lead to legal disputes, employee dissatisfaction, inconsistent management practices, and overall inefficiency within your company.

  • Are there specific HR policies required by law?

    Yes, certain HR policies, such as those related to anti-discrimination, disciplinary, grievance, health and safety, workplace harassment, among others, are mandated by law.

  • What should be included in an employee handbook?

    An employee handbook typically includes information on company policies, employee rights and responsibilities, code of conduct, benefits, disciplinary procedures, and safety protocols.