Author, Drew Garcia, Vice President, Landscape Group, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.

In order to improve a process, there needs to be a baseline. When it comes to tracking, reporting, and following through on a work-related incident, injury or illness, creating a standard operating procedure (SOP) sets the foundation. Flow charts can help all stakeholders better visualize the process and show potential next steps based on yes/no questions. This type of operating procedure also shows the duties and obligations for the individual employee, supervisor, human resources personnel and safety manager that is involved.