Employee Privacy: Policy Content Detail

This post is not a policy document per se, but it does examine the critical content elements regarding employee privacy and employee usage of company property.

1. Define "company property:" Start with all electronic devices such as computers and telephones, include company media such as email and network, then go on to physical items like documents, file cabinets and employee lockers. You get the idea. And remember, this is just a definition.

2. Establish that a "legitimate business purpose" is the justification for the Company to monitor and review employee usage of any company property, including electronic devices and media.

NOTE: It is illegal to monitor employee usage without prior notice in California. This is why it is essential that employees sign acknowledgement of this policy and receive periodic reminders.

3. Address "inappropriate or inaccurate" material which is not permitted on company property. Examples are illegal, harassing, threatening, hateful and defamatory material.

4. State that violation of the above policy makes the employee subject to disciplinary action including termination of employment.

This is one more case of managing correctly from the start and thereby avoiding unnecessary problems and expenses later.

Lance