I copied a reader's comment here

This kind of thing is just an example of what can happen in process-driven management systems. It's management by formula. Stick a situation into the formula and an action is squeezed out the other end. No thought is required and none used. Although thinking isn't banned it isn't encouraged. In these management systems morons can rise very high whereas thinkers can be held back by the risk they take when using their brains or common sense go wrong. So we end up with risk-aversion managers. On the bright side we now know this kind of moronic behaviour isn't confined to the UK.

Worth copying here because it makes sense.