Blogs

we can get on internet, read, watch TV, d homework, etc EXCEPT get on Facebook/Twitter/or listen to internet radio (it has to do with State server). Of course, work duties come first. Any problems arise, the extracurricular fun goes away. No one wants that so we all 'police' ourselves. I've taken FEMA classes, brought in my laptop to work on writing, others do classwork, puzzles, etc. In late fall, winter, early spring activity drops.

I've included our policy, but we allow individuals to do crafts that can be done qietly, without taking up a lot of space, and don't leave a mess, e.g. knitting, crocheting, needlework, etc. We also allow readers (Nook, Kindle), with the understanding that they are not to be connected to the internet. A violation of such will get you banned.
2.3400 Non-Work Related Activities.
It is the policy of the PSC that employees shall not be distracted by non-work related activities while working in the capacity of a call taker, dispatcher, trainer, or trainee. The following list details the non work-related activities that may or may not be performed while on the operations floor. These activities should never interfere with any job tasks and cease immediately when visitors are on the operations floor.
2.3410 Televisions.
All televisions shall remain on the news, weather, or traffic related channels from various feeds so that PSC personnel can remain abreast of current events and potentially hazardous weather situations.
2.3420 Cellular Telephones.
Cellular telephones, including Smartphones, Iphones, and other personal communications devices, are not allowed on the operations floor.
Additionally, and as described in 2.0730, personal communications devices may not be used to conduct PSC business or job-related tasks unless explicitly authorized by a Supervisor or Manager. Such usage may make the device, or the authors’ usage information, subject to public disclosure [as an official business record], and could make the department or PSC liable for personal activity on the device.
2.3430 Personal Electronic Devices.
Personal electronic devices which do not connect wirelessly to an external communications network are allowed, as authorized by the on duty Supervisor, a Manager, or the Director on a case by case basis. Use of such devices shall never distract or interfere with any job tasks of the user or others.
2.3440 Reading Material.
Reading is allowed when no other work duties are pending. Reading privileges may be suspended if an employee’s work performance is not optimal or their awareness of activity in PSC is negatively impacted. Reading material must always be workplace appropriate. Professional development literature is suggested as preferred reading material.
2.3450 Personal & Professional Development/School work.
All employees are encouraged to seek advancement in their personal and professional careers. School work and personal and/or professional development activities may be performed as long as it does not interfere with any work-related activities. These activities may be suspended if an employee’s work performance is not optimal or their awareness of activity in PSC is negatively impacted.
2.3460 Other Non-Work Related Activities.
Any other non-work-related activities not specifically outlined above must be authorized by the on duty Supervisor, a Manager, or the Director.