Can my NCO prevent me from having my cell phone in my pocket during the day?

2015-12-27T23:25:26-05:00

I'm currently working in a clinic and the leadership doesn't want us to use our personal phones during sick call hours. It's been gradually escalating recently and now we're being told that we can't have our phones on us at all. I understand being restricted from using them while at work and I'm fine with that. I haven't been able to find anything in the regulations that determine if my NCO can restrict me from carrying my personal cell phone in my uniform. Any help would be appreciated.

Response by COL Charles Williams made Dec 27 at 2015 11:38 PM

2015-12-27T23:38:39-05:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member With what you posted here, I would say yes, but I would also need more information. Like, why do they not want you to have a cell phone with you. NCOs and Officers have broad authority and trying to find regulatory reasons to resist orders is not a good road. Have you tried asking your NCO why?

This is what the uniform regulation says:

3-6. Uniform appearance and fit

a. Appearance.

(1) All personnel will maintain a high standard of professional dress and appearance. Uniforms will fit properly; the proper fitting of uniforms is provided in DA Pam 670-1 . Personnel must keep uniforms clean, serviceable, and roll-pressed, as necessary. Soldiers must project a military image that leaves no doubt that they live by a common military standard and uphold military order and discipline.

(2) Consider the following when wearing items on uniforms:

(a) Keys or key chains will not be attached to the uniform on the belt, belt loops, or waistband, unless they are not visible (to include making a bulky appearance under the uniform). When authorized by the commander, Soldiers may attach visible keys or key chains to the uniform when performing duties such as charge of quarters, armorer, duty officer or noncommissioned officer (NCO), or other similar duties.

(b) Soldiers may wear an electronic device on the belt, belt loops, or waistband of the uniform. Only one electronic device (for example, cell phone) may be worn. The body of the device may not exceed the size of a Government-issued electronic device, and the device and carrying case must be black; no other colors are authorized. If security cords or chains are attached to the device, Soldiers will conceal the cord or chain from view. Other types of electronic devices are not authorized for wear on the uniform, unless medically prescribed. If the commander issues and requires the use of other electronic devices in the performance of duties, the Soldier will carry them in the hand, pocket, briefcase, purse, bag, or some other carrying container.

(c) Soldiers will not wear keys, key chains, or electronic devices on the uniform when the commander determines such wear is inappropriate (such as in formation or during parades or ceremonies).

(d) Soldiers will not walk while engaged in activities that would interfere with the hand salute and greeting of the day or detract from a professional image. Examples include, but are not limited to, walking while eating, using electronic devices, or smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes. Soldiers are not authorized to wear wireless or non-wireless devices/earpieces while wearing Army uniforms. Hands-free devices while operating a personal, commercial, or military vehicle (to include a motorcycle or bicycle) are allowed if not otherwise prohibited by policy or law in accordance with AR 385-10 .

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2015 11:39 PM

2015-12-27T23:39:18-05:00

I would say that it is not part of your military uniform and he would have the authority to make the call.

Response by SN Greg Wright made Dec 27 at 2015 11:59 PM

2015-12-27T23:59:55-05:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member Specialist, if the worst thing that happens to you today is that you can't carry your cell wherever you like....you'll be ok.

Pick your battles man. This one isn't important.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2015 12:02 AM

2015-12-28T00:02:38-05:00

This is just a guess, but I would think this isn't a uniform issue per se but rather an operational one. Did this policy escalate because soldiers continued to use their phones even after they were told not to, so the leadership said that they willl have to ban them altogether in order to get compliance? It sort of sounds like that. What do you say to your NCO when he asks you why you need it in your pocket if you aren't allowed to take it out of your pocket during sick calll hours?

I think leadership probably has the authority to ban them if they want to. For example, I worked at a HQ where because of OPSEC reasons cell phones weren't allowed into the building at all. It's a strange feeling, especially for the younger soldiers, to be disconnected like that for hours at a time. You would have to leave the building and go to your car to check your phone at lunch.

You might try just asking your NCO what is the intent behind the policy. If they are keeping them out of everybody's pockets so they can't use them during sick call hours only, maybe ask if they considered just punishing the soldiers who violate that policy rather than making a blanket rule. But again, I suspect the leadership has authority to do this if they want to. I'd take the approach of discussing whether the policy is really appropriate to what they want to achieve versus whether it's against a reg or something.

Response by CW4 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2015 12:20 AM

2015-12-28T00:20:13-05:00

This isn't a uniform issue. No more so than someone telling you that you can't carry a wallet or a pack of gum in your pocket. How could you even enforce such a rule? Is the NCO going to make you empty your pockets or frisk you? I have a pregnant wife at home while I'm deployed. Anyone who told me not to carry my cell phone would be promptly asked to go kick rocks. However, my rank affords me that luxury that an E-4 doesn't have. Additionally, if you're in a clinic you are surrounded by phones, so a cell phone isn't required. If I were you, I'd let this one go. I'm sure the whole issue stems from the fact that everyone has a cell phone with a 5 inch screen and more gaming power than a Playstation 2. Everywhere I look I see lower enlisted sitting around at work playing games on their cell phones.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2015 10:19 AM

2015-12-28T10:19:48-05:00

no i dont think so, just keep it on silent and dont play with it during work hours and you'll be fine.

Response by SGT Jerrold Pesz made Dec 28 at 2015 11:08 AM

2015-12-28T11:08:52-05:00

There is no reason to have a cell phone with you if you are not going to use it which you know is against the rules.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Dec 28 at 2015 11:30 AM

2015-12-28T11:30:30-05:00

Personal cell phones are not a uniform item, so my sense is your NCO can tell you to not have it on you, etc. just my understanding.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2015 12:05 PM

2015-12-28T12:05:29-05:00

Yes. From my point of view, I have never worked anywhere that was not a secure facility and have never been allowed. Even now as a civilian.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2015 12:08 PM

2015-12-28T12:08:29-05:00

Were I to venture a guess, I would speculate that there are certain offending parties and that this is a case of leader overkill, punishing everyone because they can't handle the inability of one or two to adhere to workplace rules.
I would further wager that you are aware of who the problem children are, and a little peer to peer mentoring is in order.
Having said that, people's cell phones are not a work requirement and often become a distraction. It is not unusual at all for a workplace, civilian or military, to have rules limiting cell phone use on the clock. If it were a problem, I would have no trouble instituting a ban until the offenders got sorted out by the inconvenienced, also. But I wouldn't have an issue drilling down on the offender myself, either.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2015 12:55 PM

2015-12-28T12:55:03-05:00

I keep trying to tell my son there is no need to be connected 24/7. If it's an emergency, I'm sure there are hard lines available within the unit that can be called. That being said, had the question been asked when i got out in 1993 the follow up question would have been WTF is a cell phone. Bottom line, you do not need to be connected to a cell phone 24/7 unless it's a duty phone and you are on duty.

Response by SSG Todd Halverson made Dec 28 at 2015 12:56 PM

2015-12-28T12:56:38-05:00

Yes, he can restrict the use and carry of a cell phone with you during the day. Leaders are allowed to add to regs., but not take away parts of a reg. I know that a lot of us have survived our Military careers without a cell phone attached to us 24 / 7. You will realize that when you come to the civilian world, that most businesses do not allow the use of cell phones at work.
It may be overkill on your NCOs part, probably punishing everyone for the mistakes of a few. If he is unable to single them out, then the best way is to restrict everyone. I can remember early on in my career, our CDR and 1SG called a formation at 0100 on a Sunday night. We didn't have cell phones back then so, everyone received a call at home or the barracks SDNCO would go around getting everyone up and informed of the formation. The reason there was a formation was because a few Soldiers and NCOs were issued citations for disturbing the peace in a housing area. Instad of just bringing them in to yell at, we were all yelled at. More as a warning to all of us about what could happen if we did something like.
So, sometimes leadership will mass punish everyone as a way to stop the issue from continuing to happen and to let everyone know what the consequences are if you are caught breaking the rule.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Dec 28 at 2015 1:02 PM

2015-12-28T13:02:18-05:00

I worked in secure facilities for most of my last 20 years of employment. We weren't allowed to bring our phones into the building, much less have them in our pocket. Nobody died from lack of their personal cell phone during that time.
The medical clinic probably isn't a secure facility because of the handling of classified information, but a lot of personal information that's protected under HIPPA (I may have the acronym wrong) is inherently part of the clinic environment. This information doesn't need to disclosed intentionally or unintentionally to any unauthorized person. That could happen through a personal computing device, such as a cell phone. Banning the personal phones completely is the surest way to prevent unauthorized disclosure of information and distraction of personnel.
My advice: suck it up, kid. Leave the cell phone in your vehicle or quarters while you're on duty. Do your job as well as you possibly can and you'll be okay.

Response by MSG Gerry Poe made Dec 28 at 2015 1:40 PM

2015-12-28T13:40:47-05:00

Alright SPC Eller! If I am your NCO and I feel that your cell needs to be put in a secure area and I take responsibility as it is in my possession; then you will give it up, unless the LT or Commander says different! Always remember we are not in a habit of running a Democracy and do not mistake your right as a junior enlisted vs. what you think is privilege! Just my 2 cents on this post!

Response by MSG Gerry Poe made Dec 28 at 2015 1:48 PM

2015-12-28T13:48:56-05:00

I always look at post on Rally Point as fun, informational, and helpful for some. I don't hardly speak my mind to much unless it is asked from someone needing help or guidance. I was reading some of the feedback comments from SPC Eller's post and I would have to say, "weak sauce"! I am sure glad that I was brought up from E1-E4 back in the early to late 90's. If the words "Can my NCO prevent me from having my "whatever" in my pocket during the workday" came out of my mouth, I would likely be PTing until he got tired! I would have to say, "a lot of justifying going on"! Crazy times we are living in theses days!

Response by SGM Erik Marquez made Dec 28 at 2015 2:56 PM

2015-12-28T14:56:01-05:00

While Id bet that commands JAG would counsel him it is a borderline call unless for security reasons.. I doubt a commander would be told he cant ban the carrying of a cell phone in an area where SMs are forbidden from using it (by location or time frame/ activity)
At the same time my preferred action would to have been very clear with the policy, and then deal individually with those who choose not to follow it.
IOW, I don't care if your phone is in your pocket or under your hat... but don't use it during sick call hours means just that. Do so at your own peril.

Response by SFC Pete Kain made Dec 28 at 2015 3:33 PM

2015-12-28T15:33:38-05:00

Bottom line is if your SGT says carry 2ea blue, black and red pens. You say yes SGT, if he/she says no phones you say yes SGT. What makes young troops think they can set standards? You do not have to like it, but do have to comply. Having trouble understanding why this is even an issue. SMH

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Dec 28 at 2015 3:43 PM

2015-12-28T15:43:32-05:00

@SPC Eller - The simple answer is "yes, he/she can". Is it right? I really don't have enough information to determine that, but I must assume that there is an operational reason for such an edict.. My advice, as you have received from others, is that you should simply comply. Not worth the battle, which you would surely lose.

I once gave an NCO an order, when I was battalion commander, that he questioned whether it was a legal order or not (I told him not to see, talk to, call, or otherwise communicate with the spouse of another soldier, who was deployed, as there were rumors of an affair). Although I knew it was a legal order, I told him that I was not 100% sure that it was, but that I was willing to take it to a court-martial to find out. Was he? My point is that I would not recommend you push it.

One thing you may want to consider is to discuss it with the NCO, in a very calm manner, and see if you can get him/her to modify the order, especially after whatever the issue was has been given a chance to blow over. You might be surprised about what you might find out or what the outcome of that might be.

Response by SFC William Swartz Jr made Dec 28 at 2015 3:48 PM

2015-12-28T15:48:09-05:00

Short and sweet, pretty much yes if the cell phone usage within the section has become a problem, the leadership can institute and enforce a policy to this effect.

Response by CPT Mark Gonzalez made Dec 28 at 2015 4:55 PM

2015-12-28T16:55:37-05:00

The only thing in the regulation you need to find is art 91 UCMJ.

You joined the army and one day you'll want your Soldiers to follow your orders so follow by the example you would want others to follow.

Response by MSG Wally Carmichael made Dec 28 at 2015 6:26 PM

2015-12-28T18:26:48-05:00

As a fellow Healthcare Specialist of 25 years I agree with many of the comments and especially with GySgt John Olson. You can not be focused on your job while you have your security blanket in your pocket. And that's all it is. It is not a need. The need is those coming in on sick call. They need your attention. Drs. don't take their cell phones in the OR.

Your Commanders job is to ensure good order and disciple within your organization. That's the reason your command can make this rule.

Keep in mind, there are many jobs, military and civilian, that do not allow cell phones while on the job. If you ever get the chance to work in an operations cell you will have to leave your phone outside the office for security reasons. Even the General does so. I know of many civilian businesses that require phones be kept in a locker or left in the car while you're on the job.

If friends and family calls, they can leave a message.

Response by SFC Maury Gonzalez made Dec 28 at 2015 7:22 PM

2015-12-28T19:22:33-05:00

No cell phones is a standard policy in the civilian healthcare world , you are there to take care of patients, so yes he can ban it

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Dec 28 at 2015 7:29 PM

2015-12-28T19:29:53-05:00

UhhRah GySgt John Olson. I see the junior SM got the kabash on the phone because there was too much use of the iPacifier overall. He has his peers to thank for that. Surprised you didn't slip in the 10 mile walk to school in head deep snow.

OK here's reality. Everyone is on the bell curve somewhere. On the iPacifier curve, the top third leave their phone on mute and only look at it at mealtime but don't do anything unless it's critical. The middle third set up weird tones or vibrations from a select group who don't understand you shouldn't be bothered but do anyways. Then there's the bottom third who want to instantly know when their dog farts and then instantly reTweet. In the business world and Military, the top one third behavior is the only thing acceptable but not by much. You're being paid to perform and when you're doing something else, you're stealing. You are not entitled to suck on your iPacifier all day.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2015 8:17 PM

2015-12-28T20:17:04-05:00

The answer is simple; put the patients first and give the American taxpayer their fair share of work. Because that 'dependent' patient may have a spouse in Syria/ Iraq/ AFG, three kids in tow, a sick parent they are taking care of, and when they walk up to see you, that phone better be the furthest thing from standing and saying, "Welcome to XYZ health clinic. What can I do for you today?"
Good for them; I suspect it is not "staying in your pocket". As a MEDCOM/ FORSCOM medical Soldier, you should know that patients always come first. You cannot help the patient in front of you, at a BAS, Charlie Med or MTF, if you are constantly on FB or texting. You are not drawing labs, answering phones, using RealyHealth/ SMS or a host of other issues you are being paid to do. And if you all had listened to the leadership the first time, this wouldn't be a conversation now.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2015 10:17 PM

2015-12-28T22:17:34-05:00

I would clearly start with an order is an order regardless of agreement. If the NCO, installs an order to keep cell phones locked up during duty hours, for operational reasons, then I would perceive that as a lawful order. If you attend any type of residential schools, such as Warrant Officer Candidate School, they take your phones and you have to earn the right to get access. No joke! So back to my main point, a lawful order is such and could put you in a position you don't want. Good luck with a resolution.

Response by PO1 John Miller made Dec 29 at 2015 2:56 AM

2015-12-29T02:56:54-05:00

Yes your NCO can do that.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2015 8:19 AM

2015-12-29T08:19:16-05:00

"Can my NCO prevent me from having my cell phone in my pocket during the day?" It is a shame that we have come to the point where a specialist even thinks to ask that question. There was a time when things like that were taken for granted and E4s had important questions to ask, like, "can my NCO really take me out in the woods and kill me like he said he would?"

Response by SMSgt Cary Baker made Dec 29 at 2015 8:42 AM

2015-12-29T08:42:46-05:00

I agree with your leadership on this and here is why. I'm guilty of this also - how many times have you had your cell phone in your pocket and while working your phone either vibrates/rings. You may not answer it or look at it - but you are thinking about it if only for a second - you have now been distracted. The whole issue with cell phones - in this manner - is distraction!! I want you focused 100% on your job - nothing else. Many people's lives depend on that. I once made all my airman in my work center leave their cell phones in their vehicles because they were constantly on them and not working. Some will say that they will never get on their cell phones if on their person. My argument is - you know it's there, you can feel it in your pocket and you are thinking about it, not intentionally, but you are thinking about it - and this becomes a distraction.

On the other hand, I believe that when you are on your lunch break, or any kind of break, you should be able to have your cell phone on you. Also, keep in mind - your NCOICs/OICs can establish and write policies within their work centers that they oversee to maintain good order and discipline. As long as they follow the same policies. I have seen problems with this also.

Personally, you have no business having your phone on your person while at work. Keep in a locker, or your vehicle. Look at it during your breaks and off time. Some people may be disciplined enough to not think about their phones while on their person. But this is a very low number. Many don't have that kind of discipline - especially if they have a love interest in their life.

SMSgt (Ret) Cary Baker

Response by SGT Alicia Brenneis made Dec 29 at 2015 3:20 PM

2015-12-29T15:20:25-05:00

Not having your phone during sick call hours is not just about restricting you. It's about showing the patient respect and HIPPA. The only time I allowed my soldiers to have their phones during clinic hours was if they notified me before hand that they needed it. It was not a punishment. At first they could have them on silent but when they couldn't keep them put away they couldn't have them at all. Ask yourself how you would feel if you came in to be seen and saw the medics and nurses on their phones. It's no different than if they had FB pulled up on the computer.

Response by SFC Chris Weaver made Dec 29 at 2015 3:26 PM

2015-12-29T15:26:28-05:00

As a SSG in the Army I made my shop leave their phones in their cars. Why? Because they were too busy on the phone and texting then turning wrenches, I gave them a couple warnings they did not follow. So then I put it out that phones were to be left in the car.
I only left that on for 2 weeks, you know what? It cured the abuse.

Response by PO3 Chris Scheide made Dec 29 at 2015 4:29 PM

2015-12-29T16:29:44-05:00

SPC Eller - It's a slippery slope you're treading on. It sounds like some of the folks where you work are not following orders not to use their phones during sick call. They are screwing you over, not your NCO. If you see someone playing a game or on facebook during work hours they are slacking and causing you more work. Don't put up with that shit. Slap that phone out of their hand.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2015 4:30 PM

2015-12-29T16:30:57-05:00

Well Specialist, AR600-20 gives NCO s authority. So that being said, if I ask you to put your cell phone away because of a number of reasons, its a lawful order and therefore should be followed.

So please, put your cell phone away, and just do your job. As an aircraft mechanic, I d be lucky to check my phone at lunch or break if I had time for it. Trust me when I say this: you ll be much more effective when you are working. I will allow you to touch your phone to put some metal or hard rock on, then its time to turn wrenches. At the end of the day, on your own time, go to town on your phone.

Deal?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2015 5:23 PM

2015-12-29T17:23:09-05:00

If phones were restricted at work then nothing at work would get done. "We need a team of guys from your squad in the Motorpool", " we need the PL at the last second training meeting". Today's military believes that now that we have computers that all documentation needs to be digital and hard copy. A no cell phone policy in the field sounds logical and reasonable but no way would it work in day to day affairs and tastings.

Response by Cpl Christopher Bishop made Dec 29 at 2015 8:47 PM

2015-12-29T20:47:25-05:00

Perhaps if people could keep their booger-pickin fingers off their phones during regular DO SOME WORK hours, they wouldn't have needed to get Banned completely. Get some mental discapline, and curb the digital addiction crap, unless you got a wife who is sick in the hospital or is in her 3rd pregnancy trimester.

I am going to GUESS that perhaps there is nothing under the UCMJ about the use of cell phones. However, your NCOs have the right to disallow you from using it....making it being on your person irrelevant.

Response by SSG Brian Kresge made Dec 30 at 2015 8:12 AM

2015-12-30T08:12:56-05:00

People cite potential for emergencies - my wife had the number for the CQ desk, if she had an emergency. Even when she was right at the 9th month mark - she knew to call the CQ, and not me. Besides, that adds credibility to the exigency of your need, if it ends up going through unit channels, vs. just a call to your cellular phone.

More often, it's watching a bunch of idiots fritter away their time playing idiotic games on their cell phones. My cell phone in my day job is a vital tool. When I'm sitting around waiting in line at the TMC or on duty hours, it's one step away from the age old "malingering", if you ask me. It has gotten out of hand every where you walk, with service members buried in their devices, and the military has had to make a major course correction to catch up. Have you done your part to make sure fellow enlisted are not abusing the perceived need to carry around this relatively recent "need?" How often do people actually communicate with their phones, vs. amplify society's constant need to be entertained? If I had a soldier reading a TM or FM for every time I see one playing Candy Crush or sending idiotic memes via SMS, we'd be an even better-trained force.

It's a lawful order, no matter which way you shake it, and turning to us as jailhouse lawyers on Rally Point isn't going to win friends and influence people back in your unit.

Response by CAPT Tom Bersson made Dec 30 at 2015 10:33 AM

2015-12-30T10:33:57-05:00

It is reasonable request. Just do it.

Response by LCDR Kathryn (Kathy) Wheeler made Dec 30 at 2015 12:57 PM

2015-12-30T12:57:36-05:00

SPC Eller
My first question is why do you need your personal cell phone during working hours or even during sick call hours? I realize you want your personal cell phone with you, however do you NEED it?
The use of personal devices can be restricted by leadership during working hours, even at a Sick Call clinic. This happens more frequently when leadership sees the utilization of personal devices is impeding patient care. Furthermore, leadership can restrict you from carrying personal devices while in uniform as this increases the potential for such device to be utilized during working and sick call hours.
It is okay to PUT THE CELL PHONE DOWN!!! You don't have to be attached to it 24/7/365.
My family knew they could get ahold of me through the command if there was an emergency. They had the command phone number and when I was stationed stateside my department phone number.
There is very little reason to have your personal cell phone on you while working. Everyplace I worked had lockers for storage of personal items, this included cell phones.

Response by SSG Delanda Hunt made Dec 30 at 2015 1:06 PM

2015-12-30T13:06:14-05:00

Yes, put it on vibrate or leave it in the barracks or in the car and check your messages when you get a break. Emergency call can be sent to the Unit.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2015 11:37 AM

2015-12-31T11:37:44-05:00

My perspective:

For my mechanics, they are supposed to leave their cellphones in their locker, or otherwise not be using them during work, due to safety concerns. Easily enforceable. As a medic, you tell your patients that they cannot use their cell phone in the clinic, under the guise of "it interferes with sensitive medical equipment" (yes, I've heard this to be false, but it's often the narrative).

Simple rule. You're being paid for your time and the work you are doing for the Army. It is "our" time, not yours, during your shift. To be using your personal phone, for personal use, during "Army time", you are literally stealing from the government. Just let that sink in.

Obvious exceptions can apply. Also, as a Specialist, your next promotion is into a leadership role. Try to look at things from the perspective of someone responsible for supervising personnel and work production. Is the personal use of a communication device conducive to producing the product you are working toward? No? Then you should probably limit the use to your personal time.

Also, look at it from a civilian employment perspective. If it were possible to be fired for using Company time for personal communication (it is, btw), then you probably don't want to build that habit.

Response by SPC Jesse R. made Jan 2 at 2016 4:31 AM

2016-01-02T04:31:29-05:00

Really you are trying to fight a battle that you will not win at all. Do your job and do it well. Follow the orders given to you. Being on duty and taking care of patients should be your only concern. You can talk to your family back in the states when you get to your vehicle or back in your barracks room. Surely your family will understand that you can not talk to them during the duty day,

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 2 at 2016 10:39 PM

2016-01-02T22:39:02-05:00

Sounds like a lawful order to me

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2016 9:38 AM

2016-01-06T09:38:13-05:00

If you are being restricted from using your cellphone, then what is the issue with being told to not have it on you? I am sure none of these are the answers you are looking for, but this is the Army and not Wal-Mart. This is why you have emergency contacts who have phone numbers or an alert roster. But on the otherhand, I'm sure there would be no objection for you to carry a quarter for a payphone during sick call hours. Worry about caring for your Soldiers and not carrying your phone. Mic drop.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 6 at 2016 9:58 AM

2016-01-06T09:58:59-05:00

Sounds like your supervisor has restricted phones on your person at work because there is a reason. If you work in customer service, perhaps he has seen, or received complaints, about the distractions that phones can cause. I work in a secure area, and can't have my phone with me all day. I keep it in the lock box and check it every now and then. We have desk phones for emergencies. I would recommend that you don't press the issue, and comply with the directive. He or she can go crazy and start writing policy, that comes with consequence, if not. Not having your instant access to the world is not the end of it. Some NCOs can have more games than Milton Bradley (if you know what that company does) if you push their buttons.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 13 at 2018 6:33 PM

2018-05-13T18:33:31-04:00

Question is, WHY do you have to have it in your pocket during duty hours so badly that you need to waste time and energy searching for loopholes and asking on here? Smoke break, go get phone and check it. Lunch break, go get phone and check it. After duty, plenty of time to check it. It is possible to survive without having to check your FB or Instagram or whatever every second you are not physically doing work. The fact that it is escalating and being restricted to the point you say it is, shows that simply restricting use of phone at work isnt doing the job, um probably because you or your buddies keep using them at work, even after your NCO has told you not to.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 13 at 2018 7:01 PM

2018-05-13T19:01:47-04:00

1. An order is an order 2. If you can use it during duty hrs (which is fine), then why in blue blazes do you need it on your person during duty hours? If I saw one of my troops on his phone during duty hours, he could pick it at after 1700 the 1st time 2nd time and he would be in my weekend School of the Soldier for those who can't listen!

Response by SPC Rj Wasser made May 13 at 2018 7:13 PM

2018-05-13T19:13:28-04:00

COC can add to but not take away from the regs.
Besides that, act like a f*cking professional brother. I've got to assume if your command is instituting this then you all did SOMETHING to warrant the attention. Put your phone in your glove compartment, or better yet, suggest a storage location on site where you all can keep your phones during the day.

Either way, quit bitching. It's not the end of the world.

Response by SGT Mathew Husen made May 13 at 2018 7:23 PM

2018-05-13T19:23:58-04:00

What Army do you think you are in Specialist? The way this sounds to me, is that you need to take a man pill, and suck it up.

Response by CPL Casey Stephenson made May 13 at 2018 8:00 PM

2018-05-13T20:00:45-04:00

Just need his safe room, get over it you need to do you're job first, then worry about you're phone, what do you do when you have to go to the field or on a deployment?

Response by MSgt Carl Stokes made May 13 at 2018 8:38 PM

2018-05-13T20:38:40-04:00

not part of your issued uniform, sooo yes.

Response by 1LT Christopher Gonzales made May 14 at 2018 9:08 AM

2018-05-14T09:08:17-04:00

I'd say that it's best to work with your NCO instead of arguing whether this is legal or illegal. It IS legal; however, respectfully challenging the intent is ok.

This looks like an emplacement of a non-negotiable, but are there exceptions? If there are exceptions, then it isn't non-negotiable and enforcement becomes broad, but little caveats keep creeping in.

Look at how you and your cohorts can meet the intent and police each other to avoid blanket policies like this, brief your NCO the plan moving forward, and actually do it. He or she probably doesn't want to use blanket policy, but he or she is probably frustrated and resorting to what has been used in the past. Alleviate the frustration by being proactive and you might find that your NCO will focus more on how effective his or her team is instead of how to correct behaviors to get effectiveness.

Response by SGT Travis Arbogast made May 14 at 2018 9:24 AM

2018-05-14T09:24:57-04:00

I understand where you older guys are coming from, and I understand where you are coming from SPC Eller. I'm somewhere in the middle. You don't need your phone at work if your a single soldier because you have nothing back home to distract you, but I beg the differ for married soldiers. If my wife needed to call me with an emergency I needed to be able to respond. That's it tho, there is no other reason to have your phone except for leadership to call you to give you a task.

Response by SPC Patricia K. (Williams) Elliott made May 14 at 2018 9:46 PM

2018-05-14T21:46:55-04:00

I'm going to say yes! He's the NCO and he's already made it clear that the phones are not to be used during sick call hours. Evidently there some who didn't listen to instructions or just thought they were exempted. While in the company area they should not be used. Also on the job site. If you don't want to leave it with the NCO then leave it in your car or at home. If an emergemcy comes up then have the spouse contact the orderly room.

Response by LtCol Robert Quinter made May 14 at 2018 10:48 PM

2018-05-14T22:48:28-04:00

The NCO is responsible for maintaining good order and discipline within that group to ensure it accomplishes its assigned responsibilities. If the NCO feels his charges will be distracted by the phones, or their presence somehow adversely impacts the group's effectiveness, it is the NCOs responsibility to remove them from the duty area,

Response by LtCol George Carlson made May 16 at 2018 12:57 AM

2018-05-16T00:57:50-04:00

Simple question: If you understand that you should not use your phone during sick call, why in hell do you need it in your pocket?

Response by PO1 Richard Cormier made Aug 30 at 2018 5:03 PM

2018-08-30T17:03:24-04:00

Think of the question: Can my NCO (1SGT/SM/CSM/XO/CO/....) restrict me from having a phone (not issued by any government agency and not considered part of uniform or duties) in my uniform (government issued apparel with prescribed items in prescribed locations) during duty hours?

REALLY?!?! How did you make E4? What kind of question is that?

Need to have "wall to wall counselling" reinstated.

My $0.02 for what it is worth.

Response by SrA John Monette made Aug 30 at 2018 6:21 PM

2018-08-30T18:21:27-04:00

I have 50 cents for the kotex machine if you need it

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 30 at 2018 8:01 PM

2018-08-30T20:01:57-04:00

Heck they restrict workers from carrying their phones here at my work if you are on the potlines, , my daughter works dispatch for a sheriffs department and they are not allowed to have their phones, they must leave them in their locker.

Response by TSgt Melissa Post made Aug 31 at 2018 9:44 AM

2018-08-31T09:44:51-04:00

It really would depend on their reasoning behind it. Is it because they want to protect people's personal information, PII, or FOUO? Is it because there are certain machines that will be messed up due to the frequency or the WiFi or Bluetooth? All of these are very plausible purposes for not allowing your members to carry their phones with them at work. I don't care about the fact of why you want it on you, but from an NCO stand point these are the reasons I would restrict it on a person during certain times of their day when they would be around those items. I don't know what you are exposed to during these hours either. We are not allowed cell phones on our persons either. I have never been allowed to have my cell phone on me except in a few areas of all my jobs when I wasn't really at my job but else where on base. I hope this helps.

Response by LCDR Arthur Whittum made Sep 1 at 2018 1:54 PM

2018-09-01T13:54:00-04:00

Sounds like it started escalating when an "outhouse lawyer" started bending the order to fit his purpose. Nice try that guy, screw it up for everyone else.

Response by MSgt Stephen Council made Oct 16 at 2018 2:01 PM

2018-10-16T14:01:58-04:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member First thing is that I agree 100% with GySgt John Olson, and SN Greg Wright, which is a big deal considering the fact that they and I do not agree on much. That phone is a personal item. I is a privilege that you are allowed to even carry it into a military Facility. Second thing, you REALLY asked the wrong group of old farts and young professionals this question. The only people who are likely to agree with you are just as young, inexperienced and entitled as you seem to be. A superior who is in a leadership has the full right and RESPONSIBILTY to enforce good order and discipline. When you are in a leadership position and your units outward impression matters to you and your bosses, you will have a completely different perspective. Walk around your unit. Walk around your installation. Walk around a civilian equivalent of both. You will see the difference if you are honest with yourself. Those without military training and professionalism will be talking into the air (their Bluetooth or wired earpiece) while actually helping customers. It pisses me off when I am there to get SERVICE and they do this to me. I have actually contacted corporate at one store and the entire attitude was different (including a few new people and a few less old people) once corporate discovered it was happening. I have also said to the person: "Hey, i can wait until you are done ignoring me if your conversation is that important". If I was on Active Duty and one of my subordinates had a phone on them in the office, I would have MELTED DOWN on them. Luckily, I retired before smart phones were a thing.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 25 at 2019 11:44 AM

2019-01-25T11:44:15-05:00

Lose it SPC Private RallyPoint Member :-)

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 23 at 2019 4:35 PM

2019-09-23T16:35:21-04:00

Instead of trying to find fault with your higher or trying to prove him/her wrong; why are you not going to your peers and telling them to get the fuk off the phones. You realize you are putting more effort into trying to make someone "look" wrong than serve the populace (sick call) you are there to serve. shut the hell up, go tell your battle buddies to shut the hell up and do your job. stop worrying about your damn phone.. this fukin question just burnt me.. are you seriously asking this. You even state that it has been "gradually escalating." YOU do realize that it has been escalating for a reason.. did you not read the story of the soldiers who were taking photos of patients at fort hood (illegally) Your command is trying to cover their ass for some reason. and you are not of the pay grade that you have to know what it is they are trying to prevent. just do what you are told.

Response by SFC David Xanten made Dec 21 at 2019 2:01 PM

2019-12-21T14:01:19-05:00

Short answer, yes.

Response by SGT Mathew Husen made Jan 26 at 2020 11:19 AM

2020-01-26T11:19:34-05:00

Are you really asking that question?