As an employer you need to provide clear guidance to staff regarding their use of social networking websites.
Staff need to be made aware of the need to avoid inappropriate relationships, acting in a manner that could be perceived as harassment by other employees or clients and the importance of not disclosing confidential information. They also need to be informed that the use of such websites during working hours is not permitted unless during rest breaks.
You are therefore advised to have a clear policy for staff outlining the use of such sites. Within this you should advise employees of the importance of keeping their personal and professional lives separate as far as possible. The policy should also stress the importance of upholding the reputation of the business at all times.
If an employee posts a derogatory comment about your pharmacy on a social networking website you have the right to address this with the employee. This would be considered defamatory and/or a breach of their contract. The NPA Employment Advisory Service can advise you should this happen as this is a disciplinary matter.
Should you feel any information posted on such a website is incorrect, you have the right to write to the website to request it is removed.
Please also be aware that as the employer you will be vicariously liable for any defamatory statement made by an employee in the course of his/her employment. Therefore it is essential that employees are aware of your policy on the use of social networking websites.
