ohjeistus

Ohjeistus is a Finnish term referring to a set of instructions, guidelines, or directives intended to guide actions, decisions, or behavior in a defined context. The word is formed from ohje, instruction or guideline, with the nominalizing suffix -istus, signaling the process or product of providing guidance.

In everyday use, ohjeistus can denote formal documents issued by organizations, authorities, or professionals to outline how tasks should be performed, how risks should be managed, or how policies should be interpreted. It commonly appears in workplaces, public administration, education, healthcare, and IT. It differs from a single instruction (ohje) or a user manual (käyttöohje) by referring to a broader framework or policy set rather than isolated steps.

A typical ohjeistus includes purpose, scope, responsibilities, procedures or rules, safety or quality considerations, references to laws or standards, and revision or versioning information. Clarity, audience awareness, and accessibility are key quality factors. Good ohjeistus uses precise language, concrete actions, and is kept up to date to ensure compliance and effective implementation. It is often accompanied by related documents such as work instructions (työohje) or operating procedures (toimintaohje).

Examples include työturvallisuusohjeistus (occupational safety guidelines), tietoturvaohjeistus (information security guidelines), or ICT-systeemien käytön ohjeistus. In Finland, proper ohjeistus supports regulatory compliance, risk management, and internal control by providing a reference point for behavior and decision-making.