Colleague Searches May 2016
_______________________________________ Internal, Search Policy, Version1, Page 1 of 4
May 2016
Where to find things Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................ 3 1.
Who’s this policy for?......................................................................................................................................... 3
2.
When do searches take place? .......................................................................................................................... 3 a)
Distribution centres ....................................................................................................................................... 3
3.
Do I have to comply with searches? ................................................................................................................. 3
4.
Who conducts a search? .................................................................................................................................... 3 b)
Distribution centre ......................................................................................................................................... 3
5.
Where do searches take place? ......................................................................................................................... 3
6.
Can I have a representative with me? .............................................................................................................. 3
7.
What happens if something is found? .............................................................................................................. 3
8.
What if I refuse? .................................................................................................................................................. 3
Related reading ............................................................................................................................................................... 4 Policy info:....................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Policy owner:................................................................................................................................................................... 4 Ownership and confidentiality ..................................................................................................................................... 4
_______________________________________ Internal, Search Policy, Version1, Page 2 of 4
May 2016
Introduction We aim to provide a safe and secure working environment, and in order to protect our colleagues, customers and visitors we may conduct searches. If this happens then we will ensure that the respect and dignity of our colleagues is maintained at all times.
1. Who’s this policy for? It applies to anyone working for or on behalf of Tesco; including third party suppliers, temporary agency workers, interns, contractors and consultants. For colleagues in distribution centres, this policy will outline procedures but always refer to your individual site agreement for more guidance.
2. When do searches take place? Searches are random events so can take place at any time during a shift or at the end of the shift if there is reasonable need or suspicion to do so. You will be told on a one to one basis if we need you to take part in a search. a) Distribution centres In distribution centres, anyone on site is subject to a search if they press the random search button and are selected.
3. Do I have to comply with searches?
If you wear a turban, hijab (headscarf) or niqab (face veil), we will only request that you remove these when there are reasonable grounds for us to do so. You will be able to remove these items in a private area. If you are removing a turban, then a mirror will also be provided. In cases where a headscarf or face veil, has been asked to be removed, this should only be done in the presence of a female colleague(s). b) Distribution centre Searches can be carried out by all trained managers and security personnel. You are offered a witness but if you don’t require one, the search can take place as long as it is captured on CCTV. If a witness or union rep is required then the person conducting the search doesn’t have to be of the same sex.
5. Where do searches take place? Searches should be done in a designated room(s) with the right of search notice clearly displayed. There must be CCTV or another witness present.
6. Can I have a representative with me? Yes. We ensure that if you are asked to participate in a search then you are given the right to be accompanied by a Trade Union representative or another colleague of your choice who is available at the time.
7. What happens if something is found?
No, but if you refuse a reasonable request to search you, or your property onsite or your car if parked in our car park then we may conclude that this is a gross misconduct offence as searches are only conducted to maintain the highest levels of safety and security.
If, as a result of a search, you are found in possession of property which you have no acceptable explanation to have on your person, the normal disciplinary procedure will be followed.
If you are asked to take part in a search then this doesn’t mean that you are under any suspicion but you should comply with the request.
If you are found to be in possession of an illegal item or have committed an illegal offence, the matter will be referred to the police for further investigation.
4. Who conducts a search? a) Stores and offices The store manager or line manager can authorise any other manager to carry out searches provided they are trained. We also have trained security guards who can perform colleague searches.
8. What if I refuse? We treat any refusal to take part in a properly conducted colleague search as alleged gross misconduct. If you have completed your shift/working day, we will investigate this matter on your return to work. As this is an allegation of gross misconduct, we may suspend you following an investigation and follow the normal disciplinary procedure.
A witness must be present when searches are being conducted to provide a written record of the search and its findings, unless using a CCTV and audio enabled search room. Either the witness or the colleague conducting the search must be the same sex as the colleague being searched. _______________________________________ Internal, Search Policy, Version1, Page 3 of 4
May 2016
Related reading
Disciplinary policy
Policy info: Version No. 1 2
Date of change
Summary of change
th
New policy
th
Updated information in section 4 a regarding when a witness
16 May 2016 19 May 2016
needs to be present.
Policy owner:
[email protected]
Ownership and confidentiality This document shouldn’t be shared with anyone externally without permission from your Director. This policy and any associated documentation remains the property of Tesco and should be returned if requested.
_______________________________________ Internal, Search Policy, Version1, Page 4 of 4
May 2016
