Appendix A12b:6
Searching and individual, place or vehicle
1. We reserve the right to search your belongings, office, desk or vehicle when on our premises if, in the course of an investigation to determine whether disciplinary rules have been breached, there is good and sufficient reason, taking into account the seriousness and nature of the allegation. The following are examples of the kinds of situations where a search may be carried out but the list is not exhaustive:
- suspected theft of establishment property, including computer programs and computerised documents;
- suspected possession, use or supply of illegal drugs or other substances banned under disciplinary rules;
- suspected possession of computer viruses or other potentially damaging programs held on disk;
- need to find and secure data in connection with an allegation of scientific misconduct.
2. Whilst this procedure provides us with the right to search, it does not require us to exercise this right in all cases. In any instance where management considers that they are, or any employee is, in danger, such as suspected possession of offensive weapons, the police should be involved.
3. The search will be carried out by two people. This may be a member of HR, your line manager, a member of security staff (if applicable), or another nominated representative of the Director. You have the right to be accompanied during a search.
4. No search will be carried out without your consent at the time. However, you should note that if you withdraw your consent this may amount to breach of contract and result in disciplinary action being taken, which could result in your dismissal.
5. Any search that takes place will form part of the investigation.