Sample Mobile Phone Policy

SAMPLE MOBILE PHONE POLICY

Objective: The objective of the policy is to provide workers with a guide to safe mobile use while driving

Scope: The policy applies to all workers including contractors and volunteers whilst doing work for (organisation name).

Road Rules and Mobile Phones: Fully licenced drivers are able to make or receive aphone call or use the phone’s audio/music functions if the device:

 Is secured in a commercially designed holder fixed to the vehicle, or

 Can be operated by the driver without touching any part of the phone, and the phone is not resting on part of the driver’s body.

Drivers are able to use the phone as a navigational/GPS while driving as long as the phone is secured in a commercially designed holder fixed to the vehicle, All other functions, (including video calls, texting and emailing) are prohibited.

Further restrictions may apply to learner and probationary drivers depending on the jurisdiction.

Policy: All workers of (organisational name) are expected to obey road rules, legislation and relevant state road traffic laws at all times whilst undertaking work on our behalf. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action by the organisation.

Hands-free devices: Mobile phones must only be used in the vehicle when attached ot an approved hands-free device and ITU White Listed Phone via:

 Bluetooth connectivity to the main console and out of reach, or

 Placed in phone cradle. The safest position for the cradle to be positioned is below the line of sight of the driver and preferably to the left of the driver.

 Only short urgent discussions are permitted due to the distraction of talking on a phone device.

 For longer calls or if Bluetooth or a cradle are not available you must pull over safely and turn off the vehicle before making or receiving a call.

 Set up message bank to take messages to avoid having to make calls while driving.

 Use of phone when transporting service users in the vehicle is not permitted except in emergencies.

Satellite Navigation (GPS) Units: GPS units should be set up while the car is stationary and must not be touched by the driver while driving. Any readjustments should be performed after the driver has safely pulled over. Responsibilities: Managers and supervisors must:

 Lead by example

 Ensure company vehicles have the capability for hands-free, cradles, Bluetooth etc if phones are required for calls or GPS while being operated

 Ensure workers understand how to safely use mobile phone while driving a vehicle

 Not expect workers to answer calls when driving

 Ensure all workers are trained to operate mobile device features and how they can be integrated into the vehicle

 Ensure collection, monitoring and analysis of critical incident data for continuous improvement

 Ensure mobile phones are compatible for use with acceptable hands-free devices and ITU white listed.

It is the responsibility of workers to:

 Never text while driving

 Always keep their eyes on the road

 Familiarise themselves with their mobile phone and its vehicle interface before driving

 Use hands-free devices such as Bluetooth, while desiring the phone is in the glove box, to avoid the temptation of picking it up, or in a correctly installed cradle

 Not automatically answer their mobile phone when driving

 Ensure the caller knows they are driving

Breach of Policy: any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment. In addition, workers are expected to obey road rules, legislation and relevant state road traffic laws at all times, Breach of these rules or legislation may result in fines, loss of demerit points and disciplinary action.

Source: A guide to developing an effective policy for Mobile Phone Use in Vehicles by NRSPP Partnership Program