Supplements System Policy 24.01
Approved: November 17, 2010
1. PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND
1.1 System Policy 24.01, Risk Management, states that it is the objective of The Texas A&M University System to manage, control and, where appropriate, reduce or eliminate risk to the end that its employees, students and visitors are protected from hazards.
1.2 Research has shown that using a personal communications device while operating a vehicle can be a serious safety hazard—whether the device is hand-held or hands-free. As one of the nation’s leading transportation research institutes, the Texas A&M Transportation Institute (TTI) seeks to set an example for safe driving practices by requiring its employees to refrain from using personal communications devices while operating a vehicle on TTI business.
1.3 For the purpose of this rule, personal communications devices are defined as commercial wireless devices, such as cellular phones, mobile email devices, pagers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and other similar devices that could distract the driver if used while operating a vehicle. This rule does not prohibit the use of Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation devices.
2. PROCEDURES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
2.1 Any employee operating a TTI, state-owned, rental or personal vehicle while on TTI business is prohibited from using a personal communications device while operating a vehicle.
2.2 This rule applies to both hands-free and non-hands-free devices.
2.3 This rule applies during all hours while on TTI business.
2.4 This rule does not apply to passengers in the vehicle.
2.5 If the driver needs to use a personal communications device, he/she should exit the roadway and find a safe location to stop before doing so.
ENFORCEMENT
Violation of this rule will result in disciplinary action.
