Good Morning All,

I've just started working for a manufacturing company and the following situation has arisen.

Apparently it is common practice here for the employees to sign a acknowledgement of debt when the company purchases tools for them to do their jobs.

My understanding of this is, the value of the tools should be processed as a Tool Allowance and processed via the year end tax return, as this has an effect on their tax.

My question is can the company do force them to take a loan to do their jobs?

In addition, I've just been told that their terms of employment state that they MUST have their own tools, and would only be taken on if they brought them with them.

Given, the company allows them to take the tools home over the weekend, but this is more a security arrangement than a true benefit to them.

if it is allowed, can the guys claim the money back through their tax return?

Please this is very important as I need to be able to give my guys an idea of their rights.

Thank you in advance, any information or advice is greatly appreciated

Sincere regards

Jillian