Cell Phones in the Shop
Business owners discuss what rules to establish about cell phones, Walkmen, and other distracting electronic gear. December 14, 2005
Question
I am getting really sick of seeing my employees talking on the phone when they are at work. I am about to ban cell phones from the shop. What do others do about this?
Forum Responses
(Business and Management Forum)
From contributor N:
It's really easy for me - cell phones don't work in my shop, no service at all. I wouldn't allow them, though. Nobody needs a phone ringing or vibrating when they're running a machine. Tell them to leave phones in their vehicles and make or answer calls at break time or lunch. Nothing inside the shop.
From contributor S:
I don't allow cell phones, beepers, iPods, Walkmans or any other "personal distraction" gizmos in my shop. #1, it's a safety issue. #2, it's an annoyance issue. #3, it's a liability issue. My guys didn't like it at first, but now they get it.
From contributor D:
In the shop I work, cell phones are the usual contact with the owner and boss. They are the only ones we talk to while working and their calls are the only ones that are answered. There is no foreman, so when we have a question, they are the ones we call.
From contributor C
It is your shop, so set shop rules and give your guys two choices. Your way or the highway. They are taking money out of your pocket, creating safety issues and hurting productivity every time they do this.
From contributor J
Wow - are they operating machinery while on these phones? That would be too much for me. I think without a heavy hand, they could be made to realize how dumb this is!
From contributor P
The place I worked before here, it was a real problem and I banned cell phones. Boy, were they mad! I set up a voice mailbox on the main shop phone and they could check messages at break times. I never carry mine while I am at work. It never leaves my truck. I expect my employees to do the same. Where I am now, it isn't a big problem, so I haven't banned them, yet. Every once in a while, I will see one guy on the phone during work time and I have to remind him to limit it to break times.
From contributor H
I don't like them, and think they should be eliminated or restricted. I also realize there are situations that may make them necessary (like medical situations with family members). I'd say, unless it's an emergency, there's no reason to be on the phone. They can do that over lunch or their break. If that doesn't work, then ban them.
From contributor O
I agree with the above. Got a pregnant wife at home? Okay, I'll make that exception. Sick kid? Come talk to me, I'll be reasonable. I'll make sure you understand that it is an exception, not a license to chit chat about this weekend. Otherwise, leave them in the car. You are here to work, not talk on the phone.
From contributor Z
There must be a simple way to block cell phone signals in the shop. I don't know a lot about electronics, though. My helper is too nervous when I'm around to use his cell. I stay on top of all the annoying employee problems. He knows it.
From contributor A
I allow personal phones in the shop. Set your limits and enforce them. Nothing wrong with eliminating phones if your guys won't control it themselves. We don't take breaks, but I can imagine an employee coming off break and then spending the next 5 minutes on the phone. Sounds like an employee I once had, but his problem was the crapper.
