3M extends health and safety management rules

Technology company 3M is extending its health and safety management initiative to employees who drive as part of their job by banning the use of mobile phones while the vehicle is in motion, according to reports.

Drivers at the firm's Newton Aycliffe site have been told not to use their mobiles unless their cars are stationary and the engines turned off, the Northern Echo claims.

According to Doug Mitchell, the company's managing director, there is evidence to show the use of hands free technology still has an effect on people's driving, which is why staff are being told not to use them.

"Our employees' welfare and safety is paramount to 3M - we have an outstanding record when it comes to the prevention of workplace accidents - and we are fully committed to keeping that record," he told the news provider.

Earlier this month, the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health revealed the government will not include accidents suffered by employees while driving at work in workplace incident statistics.