PSI22.2.34 - Operational Procedures: Clerical Procedures - Clear Desk Policy

(This archived guidance relates to HMRC discretionary practice before the 6th April 2006. For current guidance on Registered Pension Schemes see the Registered Pension Schemes Manual)

At the end of each working day, the desk surface should, ideally, be clear. Where this is not entirely possible, the following pointers should be followed:

1. Post should be secured so that there is no risk of losing it even if only by taking simple action like placing in temporary folders, or bundling together with elastic bands;
2. If post on your desk still needs to be acted upon, always ensure that it is clearly marked
3. It should be as clear as possible to people who do not know your desk, where they may be able to find post or files which they are trying to locate.

A Quick Test: if you were to be off work, planned or otherwise, would your colleagues easily be able to see what was what and deal with your work?