The Pervasiveness of Mobile Phones
These days, most people have mobile phones. Their convenience, efficiency, and multifunctionality have made them indispensable in our daily lives. From personal tasks to professional communications, mobile phones support an array of functions.
Employer’s Stance on Mobile Usage
With that said, some employers have rules governing the use of these devices in the workplace. It’s essential for both employers and employees to understand the boundaries set regarding mobile phone usage during work hours. If you’re an employer or an employee and need the right advice regarding mobile phone use in the workplace, then contact our Oxford team. One thing that you can be certain of is the fact that it is not illegal for your boss to tell you that these are not allowed.
Misconceptions about “Silent” Mode
There are some who believe that they have the legal right to leave the device in vibrate or silent mode in order to appease the employer. This assumption can be misleading. It is actually perfectly legal for mobile phones to be prohibited in their entirety, regardless of their mode.
Using Personal Phones for Work
Another issue some employees encounter is when employers require them to use their personal phones for business purposes. This practice, while convenient, can blur the lines between personal and professional boundaries. Luckily, there are some companies that understand calls can be costly, and they reimburse for any calls that were made. However, remember that this is a courtesy, not an obligation. There is no legal precedent that requires companies to reimburse for such expenses.
Rights, Refusals, and Repercussions
While you can refuse to use your own device for work, it’s important to be aware of potential consequences. This refusal might be met with understanding, or it might lead to disagreements, affecting your professional relationship or even leading to more serious consequences like termination.
On the bright side, if you do incur costs related to work on your personal device, some of these expenses may be claimable when you complete your annual taxes.
Unstated Policies and Personal Discretion
If your place of work does not have a clear policy regarding mobile phone use, exercise discretion. This absence doesn’t translate to unrestricted access. Be judicious, using your phone only when essential. If you need to take a call or engage in a personal conversation, it’s courteous to step away from shared workspaces to prevent distractions.
You wouldn’t want to inadvertently become the reason for a stricter mobile phone policy in the future.
Mobile phone use in the workplace remains a topic of discussion in many professional settings. While these devices offer undeniable benefits, they also come with challenges that need addressing. Awareness, understanding, and mutual respect are key to striking a balance. If you require some guidance and advice on this subject, get in touch with our experienced solicitors on 0118 914 5622
David Philip Harris is a recognised employment solicitor with over 10 years of experience in advising employees and employers on employment law matters. He is a frequent contributor to BBC Radio Berkshire and People Management Magazine. David has represented individual and corporate clients in the employment tribunal as well as the High Court and County Court. David is a member of The Law Society and The Employment Lawyers Association (ELA UK). To contact David, visit the Contact Us page. For media enquiries: info@dphlegal.com.