Corporate Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy

Corporate Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy
At Synovos, we deeply value the safety and well-being of all employees. Of recent concern is
the increasing number of injuries resulting from distracted driving and walking.
The National Safety Council states “Many distractions exist while driving, but cell phones are a
top distraction because so many drivers use them for long periods of time each day. Almost
everyone has seen a driver distracted by a cell phone, but when you are the one who is
distracted, you often don't realize that driver is you.” An estimated 1 in 4 car crashes involve
cell phone use. Similarly, the New York Daily News recently reported “Distracted walking, like
texting, emailing, Facebooking, tweeting, and Instagraming while stepping through the city
streets, has accounted for 78% of pedestrian injuries across the country. Per a recent survey
(Liberty Mutual Insurance, 2013), as many as 60% of pedestrians use mobile phones while
crossing the street..
We recognize that occasionally employees must make or receive personal telephone calls and
use other portable electronic devices. However, we ask that Employees use good judgment on
the length and frequency of these activities. Managers/Supervisors have the authority to
restrict the use of cell phones and personal electronic devices while employees are on the job.
Employees assigned to client sites must also adhere to client cell phone and electronic devices
possession and use policies. Synovos policy regarding the use of electronic devices, including
cell phones, is as follows:
Note: The term employee is understood to mean any Synovos employees, whether full-time,
part-time or temporary procured through a temporary labor agency.
Electronic Device Usage While Operating a Vehicle
1. Drivers shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding the
use of mobile technology devices including cell phones.
2. Employees may not use cellular telephones or mobile electronic devices while operating
a motor vehicle unless a hands-free device is used.
a. This applies when an employee is operating a vehicle owned, leased or rented by
the Company and,
b. When the employee is operating a personal motor vehicle in connection with
Company business.
c. Synovos encourages the use of these safe practices when off-duty
d. It is preferable that the cellular phone voicemail feature should be on to store
incoming calls while driving and all message retrievals and calls should be made
after the vehicle is safely parked.
e. Employees are expected to keep hands-free calls short; refrain from

complicated or emotional discussions and keep their eyes on the road.
3. Special care should be taken in situations where there is traffic, inclement weather, or
the employee is driving in an unfamiliar area. In the event of such distractions, or if a
long call is needed, the employee should pull of the road or request they be able to call
the other person back at a more convenient time.
4. The following actions are prohibited while driving:
a. Sending or reading text messages or emails
b. Dialing cellular phones
c. Viewing television, videos, or DVD’s
d. Inputting data into laptop computers, personal digital assistants or navigation
systems
5. In situations where job responsibilities include regular driving and acceptance of
business calls, hands-free equipment may be provided to facilitate the provisions of this
policy. Executive vehicles are furnished with hands-free cellular equipment. Under no
circumstances are employees required to place themselves at risk to fulfill business
needs.
Using Electronic Devices While Walking
1. Conducting calls while walking is prohibited unless using a hands-free device.

a. Similar to the above driving rules employees are expected to keep hands-free
calls short; refrain from complicated or emotional discussions while in motion. If
prudent—stop walking!
2. Texting, e-mailing, Instagraming, recording notes on electronic devices or paper,
selecting music on MP3 devices or any activity that distracts you from being continually
aware of your surroundings is prohibited while walking.
3. Avoid headphone use while walking and bicycling, especially in high-traffic areas
4. Before crossing the street, look both ways for oncoming car/bicycle traffic. Make eye
contact with motorists and cyclists before crossing.
5. Use handrails when walking up/down stairs
Employees will be given two warnings. The third time an employee is found to be in violation of
this policy, it is grounds for immediate dismissal.

Corporate Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy

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Corporate Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy

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Corporate Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy

Electronic Device Usage While Operating a Vehicle

e. Employees are expected to keep hands-free calls short; refrain from

Using Electronic Devices While Walking

1. Conducting calls while walking is prohibited unless using a hands-free device.

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