PCD Policy Regulations Quiz

PCD Policy

• This policy outlines regulations for using personal communication devices (PCDs) while on duty or for work-related purposes.
• PCDs include mobile phones, PDAs, and devices with internet access.
• The New Lenox Fire Protection District allows members to use both department-issued and personally owned PCDs.
• Use while on duty, even for work-related purposes, is subject to monitoring and inspection.
• Use of personally owned PCDs for work-related purposes may subject users and their records to public records laws.
• Members can seek clarification on policy applications from supervisors.
• Members forfeit privacy expectations with regard to emails, texts, and anything published, shared, or transmitted through department-issued PCDs.
• The Department reserves the right to access any information on department-issued PCDs, including browsing history, without notice.

Department-Issued PCDs

• Department-issued PCDs are provided for on-duty performance only.
• Such devices are the property of the department and can be inspected or monitored at any time without notice.
• Off-duty use is forbidden unless expressly authorized by the Fire Chief.
• The device must be secured at the workplace after duty or turned off when leaving.

Personally Owned PCDs

• Carrying a personally owned PCD is a privilege, not a right.
• The Department accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to a personally owned PCD.
• Devices should not be used for work-related purposes except in emergency situations.
• Members have a reduced expectation of privacy while using a personally owned PCD at work.
• Recording or disclosing department business-related information without authorization is prohibited.
• The Department can access personally owned devices to inspect and copy data if necessary.
• Members must provide the department with the phone number of their personally owned PCD.
• Off-duty use of personally owned PCDs for department business is allowed in authorized situations with prior approval and compensation.

PCD Usage Regulations

• PCDs should not be visible while in uniform, except in approved carriers.
• PCDs must be silent or vibrate mode while in the workplace. However, Chief Officers and EMS/Contract Coordinators may choose to use a different mode.
• Personal business use is prohibited while on duty, except for brief personal communications.
• PCDs can be used to communicate with other personnel when radio communication is not feasible.
• Recording or taking pictures and videos is only allowed for official business.
• Accessing social networking sites is prohibited unless for official business.
• Harassing, threatening, or engaging in inappropriate conduct with third parties is strictly prohibited.

Supervisor Responsibilities

• Supervisors are responsible for ensuring members receive training on PCD usage.
• They must monitor PCD usage in the workplace and take corrective action for improper use.
• Investigations into improper conduct should be initiated promptly.
• Supervisors should consult with the Fire Chief before searching a member’s personally owned device.

Official Use

• PCDs are not secure devices.
• Sensitive communications should be conducted on secure department networks whenever possible.

Use While Driving

• Using a PCD while driving can affect safety.
• Firefighters operating emergency vehicles can only use PCDs for urgent matters and should pull over if possible.
• Members driving other vehicles should not use PCDs unless the device is hands-free and only for business-related calls.

Test your knowledge on the regulations surrounding the use of personal communication devices (PCDs) within the New Lenox Fire Protection District. This quiz covers the guidelines for both department-issued and personal devices while on duty. Understand the implications regarding privacy and monitoring effectively.