Factory rules are primarily intended to ensure worker safety and improve operational efficiency. However, some may feel that many employees do not follow the rules.

This time, we'll introduce tips for creating rules, including the reasons why rules aren't followed and how to create environment that makes it easier to follow them.

1. Reasons for not following factory rules

It is said that the reason factory rules are not followed is more often due to the work environment than to employee negligence.

First, let's check if any of the following apply to you.

The rules are not recognized.

It's possible that the rules haven't been thoroughly communicated, or that some people are simply unaware of them.

Even if notices are posted within the factory, they are not guaranteed to be noticed, as they may be placed in inconspicuous locations or workers may not realize that the information is up-to-date.

In addition to posting the rules, make sure to communicate them directly to all employees.

There are conflicting rules.

This is a common scenario when outdated rules remain in place or when there are an excessive number of rules, leading to contradictions between the rules and employees disregarding them based on their own judgment.

For example, if there are two rules, "Always adhere to the work start time" and "Do not wait in the factory outside of work hours," adhering to the work start time becomes difficult in a large factory because it is not possible to wait on-site before work begins. Alternatively, workers may end up waiting in the factory even outside of work hours, thus violating one of the rules.

This situation makes it difficult to standardize and enforce rules, as employees will be able to prioritize tasks based on their own judgment.

It's not suitable for the situation.

When managers and supervisors create company rules without understanding the situation on the ground, these rules can end up being contrary to business needs or the wishes of employees.

Even if a rule is established to leave work at 6 PM when deadlines are approaching, there may be cases where work has to continue beyond 6 PM to meet the deadline. It is necessary to formulate rules after understanding the situation on the ground.

The purpose of the rules is not understood.

If the purpose for which a rule was created is not understood, its importance may not be recognized and it may be disregarded.

Clearly explaining the objectives, such as maintaining product quality and protecting employee safety, as well as specific reasons like past accident examples, significantly improves awareness of rule compliance.

You won't be blamed for breaking the rules.

When there are no penalties for rule violations, a mindset may develop that it's okay to break the rules a little, which can spread throughout the company and make it difficult to follow the rules company-wide.

Be sure to include warnings and penalty settings for violations.

2. Communicating the purpose is the first step to following the rules.

To ensure rule compliance, it's crucial to clearly communicate the purpose first.

The main reason rules are not followed is that people do not understand the purpose and importance of the rules—what they are for.

For example, when handling products where hygiene is crucial, rules may be implemented that compromise work efficiency in order to maintain safety and quality. However, if the purpose and importance of these rules are not adequately explained, some employees may prioritize work efficiency.

It is important to communicate the purpose of the rules directly to new employees during training sessions, and to repeatedly inform existing employees about them regularly during morning meetings and other meetings to ensure everyone is aware of them.

3. Review and improve the rules.

If there are rules that are being violated particularly frequently, it is necessary to investigate the cause and make improvements.

For example, if the rule against eating and drinking in the workplace is not being followed, checking and improving things like whether the room temperature is appropriate or whether the break area is spacious may lead to the rule being followed.

Furthermore, in the case of rules regarding work procedures, observe the actual work to confirm whether the rules are hindering the work. If there are multiple rules, be sure to check for any inconsistencies.

When specific rules are not followed, there is always a reason. It is important to listen to feedback from those on the ground and improve the situation or revise the rules accordingly.

4. Adherence to the rules will be commended.

Incorporating rule compliance into the evaluation system can also be effective.

According to a survey on workplace communication conducted by the Japan Productivity Center, a public interest incorporated foundation, as many as 60% of general employees said that they lose motivation when they are reprimanded.

While it's important to impose penalties for disregarding rules due to negligence or selfishness, rewarding employees who properly follow the rules can further enhance their awareness of rule compliance.

5. It is important to communicate the rules repeatedly.

Because people have different perceptions and standards of language, even if a person in charge believes they have communicated something clearly, subtle nuances and differences in interpretation often prevent the company's intentions from being accurately conveyed.

To ensure accurate information sharing, please keep the following points in mind.

- Communicate repeatedly and regularly.
Use images and data to clarify the criteria.
- Display it in a prominent location using clear language and illustrations.
- Ensure that all employees are fully informed.

Let's continuously promote awareness, keeping in mind communication methods that will reliably reach everyone.
Furthermore, it is especially important to be thorough after any rule changes have been made.

６．まとめ

It is said that many of the reasons why factory rules are not followed stem from the work environment.

Ensure that the rules are thoroughly communicated, and be sure to repeatedly emphasize their purpose and importance. It's also crucial to understand the realities on the ground and continuously review any inconsistencies or problems with the rules.

Let's aim to create a system where everyone can comfortably follow the rules.