How the practice uses the internet and email

Purpose

This policy sets out guidelines for acceptable use of the internet and email by the practice team, contractors and other staff of Brentwood Park Family Practice. Internet and email are provided primarily to help the team carry out their work.

The practice also supports reasonable personal use of the internet and email at work, on the devices and networks it provides.

Who and what it covers

This policy applies to the practice team, contractors and other staff who access the internet and email on practice-owned devices. This includes desk phones, smartphones, laptops and desktop computers used for work.

Use of the internet is permitted and encouraged where it supports the goals of the practice. Access is a privilege, and everyone must follow this policy.

Breaking this policy could result in:

• disciplinary or legal action
• termination of employment
• being held personally liable for damages caused by the breach

All employees and contractors must confirm they have understood and agree to follow this policy.

What the internet and email may be used for

• any work and work-related purposes
• limited personal use
• more extended personal use in specific circumstances

Limited personal use

Limited personal use is permitted where it:

• is infrequent and brief
• does not interfere with the person's duties or the operation of the practice
• does not compromise the practice's security or confidentiality requirements
• does not affect the practice's storage capacity or slow down the network (for example, large email attachments)
• does not cost the practice anything extra
• does not break any law

Reasonable personal use might include a brief online bank transaction, paying a bill, or sending a short personal email, much like a brief personal phone call.

Unacceptable use

The internet and email provided by the practice must not be used to:

• create or exchange messages that are offensive, harassing, obscene or threatening
• visit websites containing objectionable (including pornographic) or criminal material
• exchange any confidential or sensitive information held by the practice
• create, store or exchange information in breach of copyright
• gamble, game, run a business or conduct illegal activities
• create or exchange advertisements, solicitations, chain letters or other unsolicited or bulk email
• play electronic or online games at work

Policy review

This policy is reviewed regularly to make sure it reflects the practice's current processes and procedures and current legislation.