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Worker-Owner Policy Handbook Template

A sample employee and worker-owner handbook template for existing worker cooperatives.

Source: Democracy at Work InstituteAdded June 12, 2026Published 2012
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Why it matters

Democratic ownership depends on clear expectations. A policy handbook helps translate member rights, responsibilities, and workplace policies into an accessible operating document.

Best for

Existing worker co-ops formalizing policies, onboarding, and member expectations.

This template is useful for co-ops moving beyond informal norms. It can support onboarding, reduce ambiguity, and help members understand what participation and accountability mean in practice. Because it is older and policy requirements vary by jurisdiction, it should be reviewed before use.

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Heirloom Library entries are summaries and wayfinding notes. The original source is the best place to read the full resource.

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