POLICY LOGIC · PRACTICAL GUIDE
A policy register you can start using today.
A policy register is an index of the policies an organisation manages. It helps a team find the current copy, see who owns it and plan the next review.
Download the policy register CSV ↓
Free download · No sign-up · Opens in spreadsheet software
What is included?
The blank template contains columns for policy reference, title, owner, current version, status, approver, approval date, last review, next review, document link, review triggers and notes. It is a starting structure to adapt to your own arrangements.
How to set up your register
- List the policies you actually manage. Start with current documents rather than a generic list of titles.
- Name an owner for each policy. Agree who maintains the content and coordinates review.
- Check which version is current. Confirm its approval status before adding a link.
- Add review information. Use a consistent date format such as YYYY-MM-DD, and agree what should prompt an earlier review.
- Keep the register accessible. Decide who updates it and where the team should find it.
A worked example
Reference: POL-004. Title: Training and competence. Owner: People lead. Version: 1.0. Status: Approved. Review trigger: a change in roles or training arrangements. This fictional example shows how a row might be completed; it does not set a required policy or review period.
Keep the register and documents aligned
Update the register when an issued policy changes. Follow each document link and compare the owner, version and status against the policy itself. Resolve gaps rather than assuming the most recently modified file is the approved copy.
What the template does not do
The CSV is an organisational aid. It does not approve documents, send reminders, record acknowledgements or determine which policies your organisation needs. Policy Logic is in development as a question-led policy builder, starting with health and safety, environmental, quality and training and competence drafts. The template can be used independently today.
Build a repeatable review process
Read the policy review checklist when planning a review, and the version control guide before issuing an amended copy. The aim is a record that stays useful as people and activities change.
These guides describe practical document-management approaches. Adapt the process to your organisation.