Concerns over safety, productivity prompt Melbourne company to outlaw use of mobile phones at work
An Australian company has banned the use of mobile phones in the workplace.
South Pacific Tyres in Melbourne imposed the ban in response to concerns about safety and lost productivity, according to an Australian Broadcasting Corporation report. The company claims to be the first in the country to impose such a ban.
A union delegate, a safety representative and the shift supervisor will be allowed to use mobile phones in the warehouse but all other workers can only use their phones during breaks.
Peter Farquah said the ban was put in place after an accident involving a forklift driver who was using his cellphone while driving.
“The bottom line was the employer has a significant duty of care, even if nothing’s enunciated by legislation, that once you’re aware of a hazard, if you don’t remove it or minimize the risks, you’re significantly culpable,” Farquah told ABC news.
South Pacific Tyres in Melbourne imposed the ban in response to concerns about safety and lost productivity, according to an Australian Broadcasting Corporation report. The company claims to be the first in the country to impose such a ban.
A union delegate, a safety representative and the shift supervisor will be allowed to use mobile phones in the warehouse but all other workers can only use their phones during breaks.
Peter Farquah said the ban was put in place after an accident involving a forklift driver who was using his cellphone while driving.
“The bottom line was the employer has a significant duty of care, even if nothing’s enunciated by legislation, that once you’re aware of a hazard, if you don’t remove it or minimize the risks, you’re significantly culpable,” Farquah told ABC news.
