Dear Ammar,

I came back from vacation to find out that my desk was relocated and all my stuff moved to my new desk in boxes.  I was furious and raised it as an invasion of privacy to management.  They did not see it that way and feel that they had to do it, and since I was away they had no choice.  I told them I will write you and you be the judge on that.  They accepted.  So, what do you think?

Regards

Disgruntled employee

Dear disgruntled,

I appreciate your trust.  As I give my two cents here on the subject, please remember that I speak from a business perspective, not as a legal expert.

It is not easy to let go of the emotional hurt that comes from someone going through another’s personal stuff.  Of course this is not acceptable.  But the situation you describe is a bit different.  You were away, the company had an urgent need to the working space that you occupy.  So, they packed the stuff for safe keeping until you got back.  It is my personal opinion that it is within their rights.

Remember that the desk or office you occupy at the company premises is not your personal space.  You work there, but you do not own it.  I know most of us are by habit get attached to the space we occupy.  However, the company has the right to use it any way they feel appropriate. 

Nonetheless, companies should clearly state their policy regarding such issues in their company manual.  Some companies have provisions in there that respect their employees’ privacy but at the same time provide clear definition of special circumstances when certain actions might be taken that might be interpreted as infringement on privacy.  For example, the right of the company to search employees’ drawers or computer files if they suspect foul play.  Or if they need access to certain information or equipment while the person occupying the space is not reachable. It is also a good idea for employers to review these policies with the company attorney. 

The issue goes beyond desks and drawers to also include privacy of personal telephone, internet, email, and computer use while at work.  All of these activities can be monitored by employers, but employers should be clear about these policies with their team members. 

Once the employees’ expectations are set properly, and the rationale behind the company policy is clear to them, then problems like this are less likely to happen. 

Also, it is advisable, when in such sensitive situations, to have more than one person present while moving personal stuff.  Noted that this should only be used as a last resort and not be taken lightly, as it will affect employees’ moral and trust in the company.

One has the right to a healthy workplace.  Beyond that, everything one uses at work is company property.  However, there is no such thing as your personal area.  Also, remember that your stuff is placed on company property.  Meaning, if they have to, and you are not reachable, they can move it if they feel necessary.  So, do not get too attached to your space.  Also, do not leave anything personal or any secrets at work.  The same applies to other privacy issues.

I once received a very valuable advice from a business expert to never assume that I have any privacy at work.  The best policy is to never keep anything at my office space that I do not want others to see, and not to treat my space as my personal area.   For example, when on the phone at work, speak as if everybody can hear you.  Same applies when you send an email, browse the internet, or when you speak to a colleague for that matter. Work is not a place to keep or share secrets.  Keep those to your personal friends and your personal life.  Following this advice will save you lots of grief and keeps your mind focused on the right things.

Ammar