Before You Take a Radio Controlled Vehicle to the Office

Back during one of my stints at Dell Computers I would take one of my RCs up to work to play with in the parking lot on my lunch break. My supervisor was fine with that as long as I let him take it for a spin as well. Not all bosses are as accommodating. But there really should be a "Take Your RC to Work Day" don't you think? Even without a special day, in some workplaces it is OK to have a little RC fun now and then. In fact, some RCs just seem perfect for work, such as a little RC forklift to help with that soda can or box of paperclips. And what better way to decide who brings the donuts next week than a laser battle with a pair of Havoc Helis? (So much more fun than rock, paper, scissors). But, before you pack that RC car, helicopter, or other gadget into your briefcase, here are three questions to ask and answer and things to consider.

Is It Allowed?

The first question to ask yourself is if your workplace allows you to bring toys to work — especially toys that move around and make noise. Some employers may frown on it or even outright forbid it so think carefully before bringing any kind of radio controlled vehicle to work with you — even if you plan to only use it on your own time, off the clock.

The boss may have good reasons, from it being a distraction (to you and your co-workers) to issues with the possible interference of the radio signals with certain office equipment.

Some employers may discourage it for valid safety reasons. Racing an RC down the hall may seem harmless enough until an unsuspecting co-worker steps out of an office, trips on your speeding car, and injures themself.

Is There Room?

If you're bringing a little micro RC car to drive around on your desk or on the tables in the break room, space may not be a problem. If you plan to fly a micro RC helicopter or airplane be sure you have plenty of unobstructed air space (watch out for hanging lamp fixtures).

Avoid narrow hallways, rooms with a lot of furniture or little room to maneuver, or rooms with a lot of foot traffic (it's a safety issue for the people and for your little RC). For outdoor fun during a lunch break, you'll need to have a nice large, empty sidewalk or parking lot or park area (depending on the size of RC you're using). A nitro RC at work is probably not a good idea because of the room needed as well as the noise and the additional safety hazard of nitro fuel.

• Choose a Large Area for Fast RCs
• Check for Obstacles
• What's a Good Size for an Indoor RC Airplane?

Will Your Boss or Co-Workers Object?

Even if the company has no set policy against it, not everyone thrills to the whirr of a little electric motor or appreciates having a tiny RC UFO buzzing around their heads. Be considerate of those around you. The best option for indoor use would be to find an enclosed office or conference room where you and those who want to join in can engage in a little tabletop racing or some aerial combat away from other co-workers who might want to enjoy lunch in peace and quiet.

Also, think twice before trying to spy on your boss with an RC outfitted with a remote camera. Not cool.