BUSINESSES should strongly consider updating policies relating to the use of social networking sites, according to a leading employment law expert.

A recent case in the UK involved an employee of pub chain Wetherspoon’s, who insulted a customer on Facebook. It highlighted how having effective guidelines in place relating to employees’ use of sites including MySpace and Twitter can protect employers and put them in a strong position from which to bring disciplinary action against employees who have posted unacceptable messages relating to their place of work.

AO Hall partner Louise Hall (pictured) said the case highlighted the need for employers to establish guidelines for employees on workplace access and appropriate use of social network sites.

‘While banning access to such sites during working hours may be regarded by some organisations as the answer, this will not stop employees accessing such sites either at work or during their own time,’ said Advocate Hall.

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