Table of Contents
Work Instruction Sizes
Work instruction sizes are pretty basic since the content of the document is what people should primarily focus on. However, there is still value in using the right format and selecting an appropriate document size falls under format.
Work Instruction Sizes Standard
US Letter Size (8.5 Inches x 11 Inches)
Like most formal documents, work instructions are subject to standardization. Perhaps the most recognized and widely-used standard size is the US Letter. Letter size dimensions measure 8.5 x 11 inches or when converted to millimeters, it is 215.9 x 279.4 mm. Its equivalent in centimeters is 21.59 x 27.94 cm. This size can be used in any field or industry, from software to manufacturing to science.
A4 Size (8.3 Inches x 11.7 Inches)
A work instruction document is basically used as a guide for employees and workers to fulfill their tasks and jobs the proper way. Having slightly similar dimensions to the US Letter size, the A4 size is a popular work instruction size as well. It measures 8.3 inches x 11.7 inches. When converted to centimeters and millimeters, the dimensions are 21.082 x 29.718 cm and 210.82 x 297.18 mm, respectively.
Legal Size (8.5 Inches x 14 Inches)
Some companies might use Legal size instead of Letter or A4 size because it ultimately depends on personal preference. Legal paper size is typically used for contracts, memorandums, and other legal documents. But it can also be used for writing standard operating procedures (SOP) and work instructions. A legal size has dimensions of 8.5 inches x 14 inches. In millimeters, the equivalent is 215.9 mm x 355.6 mm while in centimeters, it is 21.59 cm x 35.56 cm.
Work Instruction Sizes for Print
Work instructions are traditionally printed and distributed for all employees to see. When choosing a paper size, it is best to go with the standard and default document sizes. The Legal Size (8.5 x 14 inches), US Letter Size (8.5 x 11 inches), and A4 Size (8.3 x 11.7 inches) are your best options. As an additional reminder, do not neglect the text and font of your work instructions as well. Pick a classic font style and make sure the text size is readable and legible.
Work Instruction Sizes for MS Word
In the consumer market, Microsoft Word is arguably the world’s most popular word-processing software. The application is used to create and edit all kinds of important documents, including work instructions. If you are using MS Word to write your work instruction manual or form, you need to use the right document size. You can use either Letter size (21.59 x 27.94 cm), A4 size (21.082 x 29.718 cm), or even Legal size (21.59 cm x 35.56 cm), depending on your company’s needs and objectives. As for the page orientation or layout structure, you can use either portrait or landscape but the former is more commonly used.
Work Instruction Sizes for Apple Pages
If you are a Mac user, then you probably are familiar with Apple Pages. Apple Pages is a word processor designed by Apple, Inc. and possesses similar features to Microsoft Word. If you prefer using Pages to Word when crafting your work instruction, stick to the default paper sizes. In other words, use US Letter size (215.9 x 279.4 mm), A4 size (210.82 x 297.18 mm), or Legal size (215.9 mm x 355.6 mm). Just like in MS Word, the settings in Apple Pages can be configured to suit your preferences and needs. Simply go to Page Setup and set the paper size to your preferred size.
Work Instruction Sizes for Google Docs
If you are not keen on either Microsoft Word or Apple Pages, Google Docs is an excellent alternative. The online word processor was designed by Google and features similar tools and functions to Word and Pages. If you prefer to create your work instructions using Google Docs and edit them online, you need to know what document size to use. The standard sizes apply in this case too; you can choose between US Letter Size (8.5 x 11 inches) or A4 Size (8.3 x 11.7 inches). But you can also use Legal size, which measures 8.5 inches x 14 inches if your instructions are particularly long.
Work Instruction Sizes FAQs
What is the scope of work instructions?
The scope should be included in the work instructions so that the employee is aware of the exact extent of the work to be done, including its limitations.
How do you design a work instruction?
To design a work instruction, follow a standard format then outline and enumerate the different steps needed to accomplish a task or job.
What are the procedures of work instructions?
Work instructions often involve standard operating procedures (SOP) within the context of an organization or work environment.
What happens when work instructions are not followed?
If work instructions are not followed, then there is a high risk and chance of experiencing errors, issues, or even damage.
What are the basic steps of work instructions?
Work instructions describe the basic steps and processes in relation to a specific task, job, or responsibility for the purpose of helping workers accomplish the particular task.
Why is work instruction important in attaining quality?
A work instruction document is important in attaining quality because the instructions help workers or employees adhere to an established standard.
What are the benefits of having work instructions?
Work instructions provide a useful guide for employees to follow and refer to in the fulfillment and achievement of tasks.
How can work instructions help a company?
Work instructions help a company or organization streamline its processes and systems thus making them consistent and reliable.
What are the key elements of work instructions?
The key elements that are required in work instructions are the title, objective, scope, materials, and general procedures.