Smyths Toys Warehouses – Mobile Device Policy

The purpose of this policy is to outline what the Company considers to be acceptable and unacceptable use of mobile phones, electronic watches, Personal Digital Assistants or any other Electronic Personnel Equipment or Device at work.

Mobile phones and other electronic devices can be both disruptive, in terms of productivity and concentration levels and dangerous, from a health and safety point of view. Mobile phone use in the workplace can also risk breaches of confidentiality.

We, as an employer, have a duty to ensure that the working environment is safe, and that safe policies and practices are adopted.

This policy will apply differently to individual members of staff and what is acceptable will depend on the type of work being undertaken and the working environment. We expect all employees to adopt a common-sense approach in this regard.

When the term mobile phone is used this refers to mobile phone, personal digital assistants or any other electronic equipment or device.

This policy also covers phone calls, text messages, social media, email, video messages, picture messages and accessing the internet.

The use of Personal Mobile devices is prohibited during working hours in the Warehouse.

Any personal calls or use of such devices must be handled in personal time only (during breaks or upon completion of your shift). If you have an emergency and need to use any of the aforementioned devices or equipment during your working hours, you must request approval from your supervisor or manager before doing so and ensure that you are in a safe place when in use.

The use of such devices whilst operating machinery or while in control of a warehouse vehicle within the workplace (including in the yard / apron yard and other outside areas) is strictly prohibited for your safety and for the safety of others.

Using a mobile phone or any other personal electronic device at work may inadvertently risk breaching your duty of confidentiality. For example, by sending a photo which reveals the location of a specific job or contract. Employees and workers are strictly prohibited from taking pictures or filming at any time during the working day.

Managers and supervisors who have permission to use their mobile phones for business needs are able to do so however, must not use them whilst near or in use of machinery or warehouse vehicles. Permitted use of mobile phones and other devices can only take place in the designated areas within the warehouse.

Any employee found to be in breach of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action under the disciplinary policy. The Company will treat breaches of this policy as Gross Misconduct.