You know what really grinds my gears? The Gears Strike Back

this could be a GMG but my employer has updated the “site rules” and offered some classics…

in here because it feels like HQAC wrote them

  1. RECORDING:
    Employees must not use any camera or other photographic, recording or broadcasting equipment on Company premises without first obtaining permission from senior management.

problem this causes: that is fine, except, when i started there was a “team camera” - a pocket sized digital camera that no doubt we all had before smart phones became smart (and with incredible cameras)

in those days photos of samples, or best practise or whatever was taken on the team camera. it would be used often twice a day as someone in the team had something to photograph

those cameras haven’t been seen for 10+ years (likely hidden in a desk drawer somewhere and forgotten about), everyone’s personal phone offers better quality, ease of use (both in taking the photo, and getting it off the device) and readily available.
the wording however now suggests to take any photo, i need permission not of my boss, but his boss
#unworkable

Leaving site without permission from management

problem: approx ~20 of the company leave site for lunch, either to run errands in town, have lunch at home, or to let the dog out (those who literally live in town)
this is a common practice and the sign in/out sheets are set up for being off site at lunch.

the wording however now suggests we need permission to do so

#why

The recreational use of personal mobile phones, smart phones, tablets or other
devices is strictly prohibited at all times on site including offices and production areas
(including refreshment rooms), engineering workshops, storage and warehouse
areas.Personal devices may be used for these recreational activities during recognised meal breaks in designated
areas.

problem - firstly see above regarding "recording "
from a distance (either at their desk or in the lab) how is anyone going to know if someone is using their phone for business or recreational use?

Secondly, weekly one or more of the team will share a photo walking to or at the coffee machine (a “refreshment room”) of what they got up to over the weekend/the previous evening. this is typical behaviour and part of “team bonding” yet is effectively banned.

in all cases i know why the rule is there, and what is is trying to stop - but that isn’t how it is worded - reminds me of the SDC document.

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