Establishing fair domestic helper phone use rules Singapore is crucial. We all know how important phones are in our daily life. For domestic helpers, phones are tools that enable them to connect with their loved ones back home. The problem is, a phone can be a hindrance for a domestic worker.
A phone can lead to poor work performance and even pose safety risks. As an employer, you want to ensure good working performance.
On the other hand, you also want to maintain a healthy working relationship with your helper. We have some ideas to help you balance the two.
Here are some rules for domestic helper phone use rules Singapore
1. Create a Mutually Agreed Schedule
Having a mutually agreed schedule goes a long way. It will help create a daily routine and maintain a healthy balance. When your helper knows designated times for phone usage, she will be able to concentrate on her work.
Consider your helper’s needs when creating a schedule and set realistic expectations. For example, your helper’s family lives in a different time zone, which means the time when they are available may not coincide with when she is free.
You should discuss the frequency and duration of phone usage. Some helpers may need to contact their loved ones daily, while other helpers are fine with less frequent arrangements.
While having a clear schedule is helpful, you should be open to adjustments. Over time, you and your helper can adjust a schedule to suit both your needs.
2. Explain the Importance of Safety
Explain that the domestic helper phone use rules Singapore are there for her safety. Certain tasks, such as cooking, caring for children or elderly family members, or giving medicine, require full concentration. She must not use her phone while doing such tasks to avoid accidents.
3. Set Privacy Rules
Talk to your helper about the importance of the household’s privacy and safety. Let her know that sharing personal information, photos, or videos without permission is not allowed. She should never post anything that could potentially be misused by others.
4. Maintain Open Communication
You can’t build and maintain a healthy working relationship without open communication. As an employer, you should create an environment where your helper feels comfortable discussing her needs, concerns, and challenges with you.
Encourage her to voice any suggestions or difficulties regarding phone usage. Establishing house rules, including rules on phone usage, requires a thoughtful approach. Let her know that the rules are there to encourage responsible phone usage, not to cut her connection to loved ones.
5. Be Flexible
Having domestic helper phone use rules Singapore and a schedule is helpful. That being said, you need to exercise judgment when the situation calls for it. Be open to adjustments.
There are situations where the rules need to be adjusted or adapted. For example, when certain urgent needs arise or during emergencies. Being flexible demonstrates that you are willing to listen and adapt to your helper’s needs, which helps promote a sense of mutual understanding and respect.
FAQs Domestic Helper Phone Use Rules Singapore
Why do I need to set phone use rules for my domestic helper?
Setting fair rules helps balance two important things: it ensures your helper can focus on her work without distraction and avoids safety risks, while also allowing her the important connection to her family and loved ones back home.
What is the best way to manage my helper’s phone time?
The most effective method is to create a mutually agreed-upon schedule. Discuss with your helper when she can use her phone, considering her family’s time zone and needs.
Are there specific times my helper should absolutely not use her phone?
Yes, for safety reasons. Your helper must not use her phone while performing tasks that require full concentration, such as cooking, caring for children or elderly family members, or administering medicine.
Conclusion
Fair domestic helper phone use rules Singapore benefit both parties. Such rules will help your helper maintain focus while she is working and, at the same time, promote responsible phone usage. While establishing rules is undoubtedly important, you also need to be flexible when necessary.
Communication is key. It is not always easy to communicate rules, however. Phone use rules are no different. If you need assistance in communicating the rules, consider reaching out to your maid agency.Jayamaids, recognised as one of the best maid agency choices in Singapore, understands that every family has unique needs.
We provide families with suitable maids and offer a full range of services, including work permit applications, medical checkups, and renewals. For a hassle-free experience with a trusted maid agency in Hougang, contact us at Jayamaids.
