Re: Does this document need to be controlled?
Is this something Management want to have implemented? If so, control it! Control is about having it approved for use, so that people see Management are serious about implementing it. If someone's got an improvement, how are you going to ensure that everyone gets the new version to use, for example?
Control isn't about ISO 9001 or any requirement to comply. It's about Management demonstrating control over the things they consider important, so people get a single, accurate and approved "message"...
:mg: Eeeek!
I think that's the very first thing I've seen AndyN post that I thought "Wow, no way!"
Note: We're not in the area of Right-Wrong here...but in the area of preference...so take it for what it is.
I would much rather send the message by explanation and example than by approved document.
The controlled document approach strikes me initially as replacing MBWA and leading by example with Management by Document...something I work hard to avoid every day.
If someone in the work cell comes up with the great idea that people should also turn out the lights...darn if I want to revise a document to add that into the list.
As the OP states, this doesn't affect product...it is a management preference...leave it to the direct manager to get it done.
If I (the manager) then fall down on that responsibility, it doesn't belong in an internal audit, it belongs in my performance review. Keep the housekeeping checklist out of the document system...what a waste that would be.
Obviously, opinions vary...that's where the OP came from, after all.