What are some recommendations for safe use of cell phones or electronic devices while driving a motor vehicle?

Safety while driving and safe use of cell phones is important for all congregation staff and volunteers. The following is a draft policy that may be reviewed for possible adoption by a congregation as part of a personnel handbook or volunteer safety standards.  If this is to apply to volunteers, you would need to modify the language to state "volunteer" rather than "employee."

It is always important for a congregation to consult with their own legal counsel when adopting personnel or other policies.


SAMPLE POLICY:

Cell Phones, Tablet Computers and Other Electronic Communications Devices

Whether their cell phone, smart phone, tablet computer or other electronic communication device is provided by  (name of congregation)  or paid for by an individual employee,  (name of congregation)  employees are expected to observe the following guidelines in their use of electronic communications devices for business related to  (name of congregation) :

A. Employees are required to abide by the law or ordinance of a particular jurisdiction with regard to the use of all electronic communication devices while driving a motor vehicle, and will be solely responsible for any traffic violations relating to such use.

B. Safety must always be of paramount concern, and employees should never place themselves or others at risk to fulfill work-related needs.

C. Employees should never attempt to send or review text or email messages while operating a motor vehicle.

D. Employees are encouraged to place calls either prior to driving or while on rest breaks, and to pull off to the side of the road and safely stop before accepting calls.

E. Employees should always be conscious of their surroundings and refrain from discussing confidential matters in a public setting or under circumstances where their conversation could be overheard or their screens viewed by others.