(A) Employees are expected to use discretion when using city phones or personal cell phones. Excessive personal calls during the workday can interfere with employee productivity and can be distracting to others. Employees are asked to make personal calls on non-work time where possible and to make friends and family aware of this policy.
(B) Employees whose jobs require regular or occasional driving and who use a cell phone or GPS navigation unit for business or personal use are expected to use good judgment when using these devices while driving. Personal and public safety must come before all other concerns.
(C) Employees are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving unless with hands-free equipment. It is strongly recommended that the employee pull over to the side of the road and park the vehicle before placing or accepting a call. Where job responsibilities require regular driving and phone usage, hands-free equipment may be provided for the employee's convenience at the department head or supervisor's discretion.
(D) Employees must adhere to all state regulations involving cell phone usage. It is against the law in the State of Illinois to compose, send, or read a text message, e-mail, instant message, or other notification on an electronic device while operating a vehicle. Also, it is prohibited to use a cell phone while driving, while in a school speed zone or a construction zone, unless using hands-free equipment.
(E) When using a GPS navigation system, the destination should be entered before the vehicle is in motion in order to reduce distraction and lower the risk of an accident. Also, the GPS unit should be placed in a position that does not hinder the driver's view of the road.
(F) Employees who are charged with traffic violations or who are involved in accidents resulting from the use of their cell phones or GPS units while driving will be responsible for all liabilities that result from such actions.
(G) Employees whose responsibilities do not specifically include driving as an essential function, but who are issued a cell phone or GPS unit for business use, are also expected to follow all provisions of this policy. Violations of the policy by any employee will lead to disciplinary action, up to and including discharge from employment.
(Ord. 1061, passed 4-5-21)