Social Networking Policy Overview

Social Networking Policy Executive Summary

• Members are solely responsible for their online posts, which can impact their job and the department.
• Members must adhere to departmental policies, and inappropriate postings can lead to termination.
• Posts should be fair, courteous, and avoid malicious or intimidating content that could harm reputations or contribute to a hostile work environment.
• Members should be honest in their posts, correct mistakes promptly, and avoid spreading false information.
• Members must maintain confidentiality and not represent themselves as spokespersons for the department without authorization.
• The use of TikTok or any related service by ByteDance on department devices is strictly prohibited.

Social Networking Policy Purpose

• Social media can be a fun and rewarding way to share life and opinions, but presents risks.
• This policy provides guidelines for appropriate use of social media to assist members in making responsible decisions.

Social Networking Policy Scope

• This guideline applies to all employees of the Spring Fire Department.

Social Networking Policy Procedures and Responsibilities

• Social media encompasses all means of communicating or posting information online.
• Members are fully responsible for their online content.
• Conduct that adversely affects job performance, fellow associates, members, customers, suppliers, or the department's legitimate business interests may result in disciplinary action, including termination.

Social Networking Policy References and Related Policies

• Relevant references include NFPA, OSHA, TCFP, CPSE PI, Texas Model Security Plan, ISO, and TFCA.

Social Networking Policy Contact Office

• The appropriate contact office for questions or comments is the Company Officer, District Chief, or HR Director.

Social Networking Policy Errors

• Members can report errors or inconsistencies in this policy.
• This policy is for internal use only and does not create any new legal duties or liabilities.
• Violation of this policy may result in departmental disciplinary action.

Social Networking Use

• Employees are solely responsible for their online posts and must consider the risks associated with their content.
• Employees must comply with the department’s policies, and any inappropriate postings can lead to disciplinary actions, including termination.
• Posts should be respectful, fair, and courteous, avoiding malicious or intimidating content that could harm reputations or contribute to a hostile work environment.
• Members should be honest in their posts, correct mistakes promptly, and avoid spreading false information.
• Members must maintain confidentiality and not represent themselves as spokespersons for the department without authorization
• The use of TikTok or any related service by ByteDance on department devices is strictly prohibited.
• This guideline applies to all members of the Spring Fire Department.
• The policy covers all forms of electronic communication on the internet including social media, blogs, personal web sites, social networking sites, chat rooms, and any other form of online communication.

References & Related Policies

• The policy references applicable State or Federal Statutes, from NFPA, OSHA, TCFP, CPSE PI, the Texas Model Security Plan, ISO, and TFCA.

Contact Office

• Questions or comments on this SOG should be directed to the Company Officer, District Chief, or HR Director.

Errors

• Employees can submit errors or inconsistencies to this policy using the link or QR Code provided.

• The policy is for internal use only and does not enlarge a member’s legal duty or civil liability.

• The policy should not be considered as creating a duty to act or a higher duty of care, with respect to third-party civil claims against members or the department.

• A violation of this policy, if proven, can only form the basis of a complaint by this department for non-judicial administrative action in accordance with the laws governing member discipline.

Social Networking Use Policy

• Members are responsible for all content they post online, even if it includes their personal opinions
• This policy applies to all Spring Fire Department members, regardless of their role
• The policy aims to ensure responsible use of social media by promoting respectful and appropriate online behavior
• Posting false information or representing oneself as a department spokesperson without authorization is forbidden
• The use of TikTok or any related service by ByteDance is strictly prohibited on department devices
• Members must behave professionally online, considering the impact their posts might have on the department's image
• Members should avoid posting content that could harm the department's reputation, cause harm to others, or contribute to a hostile work environment
• Disciplinary actions, including termination, may occur if members violate the policy
• The department can take administrative action for any policy violations

Reporting Issues

• Members can report errors or inconsistencies in the policy
• This policy is for internal use only and does not impact the department's liability in civil matters
• This policy should not be interpreted as creating a legal obligation for members to act or increase their duty of care towards external parties
• This policy should not be used as a basis for external legal action against the members or the department
• Policy violations can only be addressed through the department's internal disciplinary processes

### Contact Office

• Company officers, District Chiefs and HR Director can answer questions or address concerns regarding the policy