Right to Search

The Company reserves the right to undertake searches of colleagues within its premises. This is to protect both the Company and colleagues from illegal activities such as:

• Any theft of the Company's property or property belonging to another; and

• The possession or supply of illegal substances.

• Or any other circumstance in which we suspect foul play.

A search does not indicate that you are under any suspicion of wrongdoing and searches will be carried out at random.

Searches will occur at random when colleagues enter or leave the premises and in circumstances where the Company reasonably suspects that a colleague has committed an illegal act.

If a search is undertaken on a random selection of colleagues, a fair selection process will be used. The Company will ensure that searches are not used in a discriminatory manner against any colleague and no individual will be unfairly targeted.

Authorised managers will undertake searches on behalf of the Company and will ensure that your dignity is protected. Searches will be carried out in a fair manner and no search will involve overly invasive methods. Prior to a search taking place, you will be asked to consent and will be required to complete a search authorisation form. You will be present at all times during a search and can be accompanied by a work colleague if you wish.

The Company reserves the right to search both its own property (e.g. Company vehicles) and your personal belongings. The manager searching may request you to empty your own pockets, bags, lockers, etc. You will only be asked to remove outer garments and shoes and will not be subject to physical contact or a body search.

If you refuse to undergo a search, no search will take place. You will be given a reasonable period of time to reconsider your refusal. You will still be asked to complete a search authorisation form if you refuse to undergo a search.

If a search is deemed to be unreasonably refused or a search reveals evidence that an illegal act has been committed, you may be suspended and a full investigation will take place. This may lead to disciplinary action. If the Company believes there is evidence that an illegal act has been committed, this will be reported to the police.

If you have a complaint about the way in which a search has been conducted, you can raise this informally with your Line Manager.

If you prefer to raise a formal complaint, please refer to the Company’s grievance procedure.