Use your mobile phone at work: you have to keep that in mind

The employer can prohibit the use of smartphones and cell phones for private matters at work. This practical tip tells you what you should consider if you want to use your cell phone while at work.

Use your mobile phone at work: you have to keep that in mind

In general, if your employer does not issue a ban, you can use your cell phone for private purposes. However, only to a reasonable extent - constant surfing and chatting is not permitted and can result in a warning. The following rules apply:

• An employer can prohibit the use of cell phones for private purposes during working hours. Such a ban falls under the so-called right to issue instructions from an employer.
• Unpaid breaks are an exception. You can use your cell phone without hesitation.
• You also have the right to be reachable in an emergency. So you can bring your mobile phone and leave it switched on. You can also make calls if there is an emergency.
• The only exception is when cell phones disrupt production, for example when working with sensitive measuring instruments.

Use your mobile phone at work: Talk to your manager

• If private calls are not officially prohibited by the employer, you can make calls.
• If in doubt, however, you should talk to your manager about using your mobile phone. They can exercise their right to issue instructions and prohibit the use of mobile phones or issue restrictions.
• In any case, you should be brief when you have a private conversation. A short appointment is usually not a problem.

Warning: You should never eat these foods at the workplace

On the next page you will find out whether you can charge your cell phone at work.