SECTION 11: CELL PHONE USAGE POLICY

I. Purpose

At AVCI Veterinary Practice, we recognize the importance of mobile communication in enhancing workplace efficiency, coordination, and productivity. However, improper use of cell phones can lead to distractions, decreased productivity, security risks, and potential safety hazards.
This policy establishes guidelines for appropriate cell phone usage during work hours while ensuring compliance with Philippine labor laws and business regulations.

II. Legal Basis

This policy adheres to relevant Philippine laws, including:
• Labor Code of the Philippines (PD 442) – Governs employee conduct, productivity, and workplace discipline.
• Republic Act No. 11058 (Occupational Safety and Health Standards Act of 2018) – Mandates a safe working environment and prohibits cell phone use in hazardous situations.
• Republic Act No. 10173 (Data Privacy Act of 2012) – Regulates the handling of confidential client and business information via electronic devices.
• Republic Act No. 10667 (Philippine Competition Act) – Prohibits unauthorized sharing of business-sensitive information through mobile communication.
• Republic Act No. 8792 (E-Commerce Act of 2000) – Regulates the responsible use of digital communications in business settings.

III. Scope and Applicability

This policy applies to all AVCI employees across all branches and departments. It covers both personal and company-issued cell phones used during work hours.

IV. General Guidelines on Cell Phone Use

Employees must follow these guidelines to ensure responsible and professional cell phone usage in the workplace:

1. Prohibited Cell Phone Use in Work Areas

Employees are not allowed to use cell phones in the following circumstances:
• While handling animals – To avoid distractions and ensure safety.
• During veterinary procedures, examinations, and surgeries – To maintain hygiene and focus.
• While driving or transporting animals – In compliance with RA 11058 (Occupational Safety and Health Standards Act).
• While operating clinic equipment or machinery – To prevent accidents.
• During meetings, training sessions, or consultations with clients – Unless necessary for work-related purposes.
• For personal internet browsing, social media, or gaming during work hours – To prevent distractions and maintain productivity.

2. Appropriate Work-Related Cell Phone Use

Cell phones may be used for the following work-related activities:
• Receiving and making work calls related to appointments, client follow-ups, or emergency cases.
• Text messaging or emailing for work-related communications in appropriate locations.
• Using work-related applications such as THREAD for attendance tracking and scheduling.
• Researching veterinary information to assist in treatment decisions.
• Tracking work tasks, reminders, and contacts to improve efficiency.

V. Company-Issued Cell Phones

1. Responsibilities for Work Phones
• Employees assigned company-issued phones must use them strictly for work purposes.
• Unauthorized use of company-issued phones for personal activities may result in disciplinary action.
• Lost, stolen, or damaged work phones must be reported immediately to the IT department.
• Employees must not install personal apps, games, or social media on work devices.

2. Security of Work-Related Communications
• Client and patient data stored on mobile devices must be protected under RA 10173 (Data Privacy Act).
• Employees are prohibited from recording or sharing confidential company information via mobile devices.
• Any unauthorized disclosure of client data may result in termination and legal consequences.

VI. Personal Cell Phones in the Workplace

1. Personal Cell Phone Use Restrictions
• Personal cell phones should not be used for work-related tasks unless approved by management.
• Employees must silence or put their personal phones on vibrate mode during work hours.
• Personal calls should be limited to break times and should not disrupt workflow.
• Using personal phones excessively during work hours may result in disciplinary action.

2. Emergency Use of Personal Phones

Employees may use personal phones during work hours only for emergencies, such as:
• Family emergencies.
• Urgent personal matters requiring immediate attention.