Yes, you can limit cell phone usage at work

Q         Our company wants to implement a policy to limit personal cell phone usage only to break times. Can we ask workers to put their phones in their work lockers or on their supervisors’ desks?

A   Yes, you can limit cell phone usage in the workplace. As an employer, you have the right to set the basic rules of employment at your business, including the right to restrict employee cell phone usage to certain times or for certain reasons. Limiting employee cell phone usage can help to minimize distractions and promote a more productive work environment.

If you do choose to limit your employees’ cell phone usage, make sure to put the policy in writing. Your cell phone policy should be made official by putting it in the employee handbook or by circulating it to all employees separately from your handbook. Also, it should be signed by employees to ensure they have acknowledged it. Among other things, your policy should specify:

• When and if personal cell phone use is permitted;
• Where it is permitted;
• Any requirements that when in use, cell phones should be set to silent; and
• Any restrictions on using social media or cell phone games.

It should also specify the disciplinary actions that will be taken if the policy is violated.