Technology today is such that most individuals utilize a cell phone for a variety of functions which may include calls, text messaging, and digital photography to name a few.

Does your company/organization have a formal policy regarding the use of cell phones? Does this policy include both personal use and company issued cell phones? Here are some thoughts on what you may want to consider when drafting your organizations policies regarding cell phones:

Personal cell phone policy

While at work employees are expected to exercise the same discretion in using personal cellular phones as is expected for the use of company phones. Excessive personal calls during the workday, regardless of the phone used, can interfere with employee productivity and be distracting to others. The company encourages employees to limit personal calls during work time.

Employees are therefore asked to make all personal calls on non-work time and to ensure that friends and family members are aware of the company's policy. Exceptions will be made for any emergency circumstances. The company will not be liable for the loss of personal cellular phones brought into the workplace.

Personal use of company cellular phones

Where job or business needs demand immediate access to an employee the company may issue a business cell phone that is to be used strictly for work related communications. To protect the employee from incurring a tax liability for the personal use of this equipment, company issued phones is to be used for business reasons only. Phone logs will be audited at a minimum on a monthly basis to ensure no unauthorized use has occurred.

Employees in possession of company equipment are expected to protect the equipment from loss, damage, or theft. Upon resignation or termination of employment, or at any time upon request, the employee will be able to produce the phone for return or inspection. Employees unable to present the phone in good working condition within the time period requested will be expected to bear the cost of a replacement.

Employees who separate from employment with outstanding debts for equipment loss or unauthorized charges will be considered to have left employment on unsatisfactory terms and may be subject to legal action.

Safety issues for cellular phone use

Employees whose job responsibilities include regular or occasional driving and who are issued a cell phone for business are expected to refrain from using their phone while driving. Safety must come before all other concerns. Regardless of the circumstances, including slow or stopped traffic, employees are strongly encouraged to pull off to the side of the road and safely stop the vehicle before place or accepting a call.

If acceptance of a call is unavoidable and pulling over is not an option, employees are expected to keep the call short and use hands-free options if available.

Employees who are charged with traffic violations resulting from the use of their phone while driving will be solely responsible.