KUWAIT CITY, Aug 11: Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has introduced new guidelines for employees and contractors regarding the use of technology and social media, focusing on photography, recording, and publishing practices. This move aims to uphold the company’s esteemed local and global reputation built over many years.

In an official circular, KOC emphasized its commitment to maintaining confidentiality, respecting privacy, and upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. The company noted the increasing prevalence of technology and its potential effects, prompting the need for stringent controls to ensure technology is used appropriately and in alignment with its intended purpose.

Key provisions in the circular include:

1. Restrictions on photography and publishing: Employees and contractors are prohibited from using technology for photography or publishing, whether personal or of others with their consent, when in official uniform or in any context involving the company’s logo or trade name. This restriction applies across all locations, including workplaces, public spaces, and social media platforms. Permission from relevant company authorities is required for any such activities, and publishing must be done exclusively through official channels.
2. Privacy and monitoring restrictions: The circular forbids photographing individuals without their consent within company buildings, facilities, or during work-related occasions outside the company premises. It also prohibits the installation and use of monitoring or eavesdropping devices on company equipment or sites.
3. Recording and broadcasting restrictions: Recording meetings and conversations at the workplace, broadcasting or transcribing such conversations, and photographing documents or work-related papers are strictly prohibited. Any document or paper must be obtained through established procedures and cannot be published.
4. Filming regulations: Filming inside company facilities or documenting company operations is restricted to specific cases as determined by the company’s established procedures. Publication of such content is only permitted within the company’s authorized channels.
5. Social media and company representation: Employees and contractors are barred from declaring the company’s name or making comments related to the company, its employees, or its operations on social media. Any content that could be construed as related to the company or its personnel is prohibited.

KOC emphasized the importance of proper representation and respecting the privacy of colleagues when using technology and social media. Employees and contractors are instructed to report any incidents of non-compliance to their direct managers or compliance officers.

The company has outlined that disciplinary actions will be taken against those who breach these rules, which may include legal liabilities and compensation for any resulting damages. The goal is to ensure that technology and social media usage aligns with legal standards and protects the company’s sensitive information.

Through these guidelines, KOC aims to balance personal freedom with the need to safeguard company secrets and maintain a respectful and secure work environment. Employees are urged to adhere to these controls and report any violations to support the company’s interests and protect privacy.