Industrial Relations Report MERV SALTMARSH ER & Business Improvement Manager
Mobile Phones can compromise SECURITY AND PRODUCTIVITY
Members and Employers should not only consider productivity problems, but also security and importantly, safety of employees and the employer premises when controlling mobile phone use at work. Our industry includes many areas of potential ignition be it flammable or as detailed below, and largely fall within three facets of mobile phone use that have implications for the safety of employees and employer, security and also productivity and distraction implications. 1. Safety The possibility of radiofrequency or electromagnetic noise, which could interfere with electrical equipment and can potentially cause flammable or sensitive materials to ignite. 2. Security “It’s a situation where in fact the utilization of the hand held phone – the apparatus itself – can create a security event.” In such circumstances, an outright prohibition within the important place is warranted 3. Productivity and Distraction Another problem, which is much more common, is the fact they could become a major distraction. For example, “ “If someone’s on a mobile phone in the course of their normal duties, they’re definitely not going to be paying the complete level of consideration to the action or customer and again the personal safety of self and others. It has to be said when the catch cry of “the customer is why we are here” it is not a good look and also not unreasonable for an employer to adopt no phone use in the course of your normal duties In environments, the distraction is observed as a productivity issue more than a security danger “In the exact same manner where people spend an excessive amount of time gossiping across the water cooler or similar and spending an excessive amount of time playing apps or texting may cause distraction and lost productivity. Consequently, offenders ought to be disciplined and counselled regardless of whether their actions present a safety, security or ensuring genuine vigilance to customers and all within the work area hazard or not. In many cases, an outright ban won’t be warranted by the problem of distraction on mobile phone use. However, there are several
environments where “all distractions must be absolutely removed” Outright bans are scarcely the answer Even if mobile phone use doesn’t present a serious security danger, the significance of getting a policy to supply clear guidance is a suggested approach. “In the exact same manner that businesses have e-mail and web policies, it’s significant that businesses also think about using the mobile phones.” Policies Policies similar to social media policies should characterise the kind of information which could be retrieved on phones, like family emergencies obviously would be supported. Determine time limits regarding where and when they could be utilized, and contain guidelines around proper means to speak with customers and colleagues, “In that respect businesses have a good number of vested interest in ensuring they elevate these concerns.” In workplaces where particular areas are thought to be high risk due to traffic or machines, signage may also help in deterring mobile phone use. There are risks in going too far, just since there are risks in failing to deal with problem. “In the present skills environment, it’s hard for employers to discover highly skilled workers however nothing should compromise safety of self and others . Mobile phones can be “an utterly brilliant communication tool” and an “enormous” security tool. Employers can have thorough discussions with supervisors about unfolding safety dangers and guide workers of the safety event almost instantaneously. An unnecessary prohibition could do an organisation more damage than good, however it is not an unreasonable approach for employers to suggest breaks are the preferred approach to making or responding to calls or social media. THA provide advice and support in reviewing and or developing policies and procedures for members. If your organisation requires assistance feel free to contact our office and Merv Saltmarsh ER/Business Improvement Manager.
August 2017 www.australianhotels.asn.au
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