What are procedures primarily characterized as?

Procedures are primarily characterized as mandatory low-level step-by-step guides that outline specific methods for accomplishing tasks or responding to incidents. This structured approach ensures consistency and compliance with established policies and regulations. Procedures provide detailed instructions that personnel must follow to execute processes correctly and safely, leaving little room for deviation. This characteristic is crucial in environments where adherence to specific steps is necessary to maintain security, manage risks effectively, and ensure operational efficiency. By establishing clear and enforceable directives, procedures help organizations to standardize processes, mitigate risks, and align operational activities with organizational goals.