Why is good procedure design important?

Procedures are agreed safe ways of doing things. Written procedures usually consist of step-by-step instructions and related information needed to help carry out tasks safely. They may include checklists, decision aids, diagrams, flow-charts and other types of job aids. 

Problems with procedures are linked to numerous incidents and frequently cited as one of the causes of major accidents. The inadequate management of procedures have contributed to disasters such as Bhopal, Piper Alpha and Clapham Junction.  The main causes are too much reliance placed on procedures to control risk, a failure to follow safe working procedures or the use of inadequate procedures.

Operating procedures may not be the best way of controlling major hazards, at least not as the sole defence against human error. 

Key principles in procedure design

1. Have a ‘procedure for managing procedures’ – outlining e.g. how to decide which tasks need procedures, how these are developed, complied with and reviewed/updated.
2. Use a format, style and level of detail appropriate to the user, task and consequences of failure.  Fit for purpose - one size does not fit all. 
3. Use task analysis methods to inform the content of procedures.
4. Encourage compliance with procedures through user involvement and job design.  ‘Design-out’ violations (not following agreed procedures). 
5. Consider the links between procedures and competency – they are two sides of the same coin and should support each other.

• More information on procedures