Personnel(ly) Speaking
Personnel Management Systems, Inc.
Driving Hands Free in Washington (and many other states)
Yes, you still need to drive with your hands in Washington. But now your hands need to be on your steering wheel, not your cell phone!
Effective June 10, 2010, you will be guilty of a traffic infraction if you are holding a wireless communication device to your ear or if you are trying to send, read or write a text message. Human Resource Managers all over Washington are urging all employers to update polices and training accordingly.
Below is a policy statement that companies may find helpful. We suggest employers update their Employee Handbook with this, or a similar policy, in addition to making it available to all employees who use a cell phone while conducting company business:
ABC Company is committed to promoting safe driving. While on Company business you are prohibited from using a cell phone or similar device while driving unless properly using a hands-free device. For your safety and those around you, text messaging, accessing the Internet, receiving or responding to email, or any other similar activity that cannot be conducted hands-free is also prohibited.
If you need further assistance on this or any other Human Resource issue, call on Personnel Management Systems.
Personnel(ly) Speaking is a monthly comment on HR issues of importance. It is intended to provide general information and must not be construed as legal advice. Reproductions are allowed as long as credit for this information is given to PMSI. We welcome your comments, questions, and concerns. © PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS, INC., Corporate Office, (425) 576-1900