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Employee Search Policy and Procedure

This policy explains the circumstances in which an employer may wish to search employees and outlines the procedures that will be followed during the search and in the event that the search reveals any illegal activity/possession. The possibility of being searched (either as part of a random process or as a result of surveillance or investigation) and the conduct of the search itself are both highly sensitive areas so to avoid accusations of discrimination, victimisation or inappropriate behaviour it is crucial that employers with a need, or a potential need, to carry out searches have a clearly defined and communicated policy. However, having a policy in place does not allow the employer to search an employee against their will - this would in fact be classed as assault.

In common with all policies, this policy should be signed by the most senior person responsible for its operation (normally the head of the Company) and all employees should be informed of its contents, with a central copy held on a 'Personnel Policy File' with all of your other policies and procedures. Once you have established this as Company Policy, please ensure you and your employees comply with it.

Other documents you may wish to consider implementing in addition to this policy include:

Alcohol & Substance Abuse Policy and Procedure

Disciplinary, Dismissal and Grievance Policy

Discrimination, Bullying, Harrassment and Victimisation at Work Policy and Procedure