Update your HR Internet and phone use policy at work
- On 15 June 2015
- Posted by Chantal Mariotti
Much HR law and policy protect employees’ rights and privacy. Privacy and safety in the workplace is an important matter and certain employee laws protect employees when it comes to personal information and activities (i.e., private phone conversations). The laws, however, have limited employee rights for internet usage that take place on company computers. Certain companies, in fact, have permission to monitor employees’ work phones, emails, and computers.
Still, employees should be working and not “surfing the web” while at work. Work productivity is often hindered when employees focus more on personal matters than on their work responsibilities. With today’s increasing accessibility and reliance on “smart phones” and the internet, it’s easy to get distracted. Since time is money in a work environment, it’s important to enforce policies to ensure work productivity is not negatively affected.
Security is important for all concerned – make sure your network is safe for all users. Ensuring your company’s information is secure is highly important and therefore employers should take every precaution to prevent any breach of privacy. By updating your company’s internet and phone use policy, you can take an active approach to preventing any viruses or hackers from accessing confidential information.
Employees should not be using cell phones for non-work purposes, ignoring your guests and employees. Smartphones have made it easier and more convenient for employees to access non-work related websites while at work. Disruptions from talking on the phone or surfing the web not only affect productivity but can affect company morale as well. Other employees may consider this behavior inappropriate which can lead to issues in the workplace.
We can craft an internet and phone use policy that fits your specific business needs. A well-crafted policy can ensure that all your employees are aware and agree to the rules. Every company may require different policies for their internet and phone usage and we’re here to help personalize your company’s policy. Depending on the type of business you own, you may take a different approach to enforcing phone and internet usage at work.