No privacy in cyber world

Employer can trace your activity on work devices

WHEN you surf the web or share a photo on social media, you should assume your actions may be monitored.

That’s because you leave an electronic trail back to your computer or cell phone when you visit a website, use Google search, or download an image.

When you use your employer’s online network, they can legally track your communications at work. Plus, they can read and trace your actions back to when you log in, even your personal emails.

Your employer also owns any computers, laptops and cell phones they have given you. And that includes the device’s content – whether you are working in-office or remotely.

Employers have clear guidelines about using email and internet at work, and departments that monitor the digital traffic on their online networks. These departments must report when users break employer guidelines.

Much of it is common sense. Don’t distribute hate propaganda. Refrain from gossiping about management or co-workers.

First contracts are bargaining priority

When new members certify to join HEU, bargaining their first contract is an exciting time.

HEU’s bargaining team works quickly to get first collective agreements negotiated for newly certified sites so that members have union benefits (such as standardized vacation and sick leave entitlements) and protections (like grievance processes) in place as soon as possible.

This year, HEU has successfully negotiated 13 first collective agreements for independent health care sites.

Don’t disclose confidential client or patient information. And never send hoaxes, chain letters and lewd jokes on the employer’s email system. For any of these activities, you could be at risk for disciplinary action.

Employers recognize some personal email and internet use by staff will take place. And most permit it as long as it meets their policy guidelines, takes place during scheduled breaks and doesn’t impact work performance.

However, if you check your personal email or social media accounts on employer-paid time, you could be disciplined. Your employer may consider this “time theft.”

It’s also risky to use your work email address to set up social media profiles. That’s because the employer owns that email address.

However, as a unionized employee you have rights about how these policies are implemented. You always have the right to a shop steward, access to the grievance process, and certain privacy rights.

To find out more about your employer’s

HEU now represents work ers at: Normanna Rest Home, Merit Place, The Hamlets at the Duncan, Spring Valley Care Centre,

These new members work in long-term care, assisted living, and support services.