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Sample policy

Break Room Fridge Etiquette Policy

Because No One Likes a Sandwich Bandit

Purpose

To foster harmony, goodwill, and fair treatment in the sacred territory of the break room fridge, this policy ensures that all employees have access to their personally stored snacks without fear of theft, tampering, or mysterious disappearances.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, interns, and anyone who dares to venture near the break room fridge during lunch hours—or snack emergencies.

Definitions

  • Personal Food: Items clearly marked with the owner's name or cryptic symbols only they can decode.
  • Community Food: Unmarked leftovers, free samples, or that suspiciously communal cake on the counter.
  • Fridge Bandit: A nefarious individual who pilfers food that does not belong to them.

Policy Statements

1. Respect and Ownership

The fridge is not a free-for-all zone. If it’s not yours, don’t eat it. If the food is marked with a name, assume it is sacred property guarded by the spirits of its rightful owner.

2. Labelling

Every item stored in the fridge should be labelled with the owner’s name. Anonymous food is considered an open invitation for consumption but is still subject to rigorous sniff testing.

3. Community Food

Community food is fair game unless it is over two weeks old. Items that defy expiry dates are subject to removal by the “Fridge Cleanup Crew” (a.k.a. whoever’s brave enough to empty the fridge).

4. Fridge Cleanup Day

Fridge Cleanup Day occurs every Friday at 4 p.m. All unmarked or expired items will be disposed of with extreme prejudice. Employees are advised to rescue their leftovers before this time.

5. Penalties for Food Theft

Any proven instance of food theft will result in the following:

  • First offence: Stern glare from the victim and mandatory apology (with baked goods).
  • Second offence: Public shaming during staff meetings.
  • Third offence: Temporary banishment from the break room and relocation to the outdoor picnic table, regardless of weather conditions.

Reporting Violations

Anyone who suspects their lunch has been stolen may submit a formal complaint to HR with photographic evidence (a.k.a. a selfie of their disappointed face).

Next Steps

Let’s all pledge to respect one another’s culinary treasures, for a workplace united is a workplace well-fed.

Conclusion

The shared fridge is more than a piece of office equipment—it’s a symbol of trust, respect, and the bonds we build in everyday moments. By adhering to this lighthearted yet important policy, we can ensure that our workplace remains a haven for collaboration, camaraderie, and above all, delicious lunches.