HR Health & Safety FAQ

Questions:

• How does the “play or pay” provision of the health care reform law work?
• What does OSHA require employers to do?
• Is every employee injury covered by workers’ compensation?
• Should our company prohibit employees from using their cell phones for business while driving?
• What are repetitive stress disorders?
• Is alcoholism a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act?
• Are there inexpensive ways to encourage healthy habits in our employees?
• What are the benefits of adopting a workplace wellness program?

Answer:

Should our company prohibit employees from using their cell phones for business while driving?

Yes. Although not every state currently bans use of handheld cell phones while driving, the clear trend favors such restrictions. Every year, more states ban texting while driving, require drivers to use hands-free devices if they want to talk on the phone, and restrict certain drivers (such as teens) from using cell phones altogether. As an employer, you have more than driver and pedestrian safety to worry about: Your company could also be legally liable if an employee causes an accident while talking on the phone. For information on employer liability, as well as tips on what to include in a cell phone policy, see Nolo’s article Cell Phone Policies for Employees Who Drive.