Replies

1. 
   Harry_Vermehren | Apr 02, 1999 08:10am | #1

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   Tom, you might try contacting the NAHB. Is there a large builder in your area? You might be able to "borrow" one from one of it's employees. Keep in mind that a manual can be a great managment tool if you follow it's contents to the T. It can also be used against you if you don't.

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   Guest_ | Apr 02, 1999 08:33am | #2

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   Tom,

   I'm working on one myself right now, it's mainly a random pile of thoughts at the moment but I hope to have it organized real soon, possibly this weekend. Between the great thinkers who will, hopefully, contribute to this thread and what I've got already, maybe I'll have a rough draft to send to you. I'll be grateful for your input into the final version. After 6 years in business, I keep thinking I've seen it all... for example, we don't allow drugs on the jobsite, so a couple of guys thought this meant they were supposed to go for a walk around the block to blow their breaktime joint... written policies sometimes make clear what most of us consider to be just common sense! One thought... my Employer / Employee Manual covers not only what I should expect from my people, but also what they should expect from me, and what the underlying philosophy of the company is... Anyways, good topic, very timely for me too, can the rest of you folks help both of us out with your ideas? Thanks!

3. 
   Harry_Vermehren | Apr 02, 1999 08:35am | #3

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   Have you tried contacting the NAHB for info? If there is a large volume builder in your area, you might be able to "borrow" one from one of it's employees. Keep in mind that an employee manual is a great managment tool if followed to the "T" but can work against you if it is not.

4. 
   Guest_ | Apr 02, 1999 09:48am | #4

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   I agree with Ross. These manuals come across a lot better if the rationale is explained (e.g. "In order to schedule work and allow the rest of the crew to be productive, please call your supervisor as soon as you know you will be out sick - at least by 8 am that day"). And if obligations and expectations of both sides are presented. Have numerous people review it for both content and tone. Play through some what if's in your mind and develop even-handed responses - what if someone shows up drunk, gets injuried, pisses off the client, etc.

   A semi-related topic. When working at toxic waste sites, we're required to have a site-specific safety plan. The most important part of which is directions, indicated on a map, to the nearest hospital with an ER. For really serious stuff call the ambulance. But several times it's been really handy to grab that page and drive the guy there.

1. 
   Guest_ | Apr 03, 1999 12:51am | #5

   *Try Journal of Light Construction. I believe they had an article (and a sample) about two years ago.We don't use them. A lot of my labor are subs; and while I do have a several skilled full timers, the bulk of the people we use are semi-skilled (roofer/helpers, junior framers). I doubt some of them can read.

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   Guest_ | Apr 03, 1999 05:38pm | #7

   *Tommy, go for it! Write that policy manual!I once had a couple of guys tell me that I had the most organized company that they ever worked for, because I gave them one printed sheet outlining starting times, coffee breaks, pay policy, etc. Of course, if they really knew me...Blue

5. 
   Guest_ | Apr 03, 1999 05:38pm | #6

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   I am interested in developing an employee manual/handbook for my business. Does anyone have some advice or a source for info? If you have a good one that works for you, I would be interested in reviewing it.

   Thanks,

   Tom