Home Working Risks and Responsibilities
Do you have homeworkers using computers for work purposes?
If so, have you completed homeworking and DSE assessments? If not, then you must check out your legal requirements https://www.hse.gov.uk/home-working/index.htm
The âDarkâ days
There was a time when those that worked would leave their homes early in the morning and return some 8-12 hours later, depending on how far you travelled to your workplace. I recall working in industry in the 1980âs and during the winter time, I would not even see daylight during the working week!
Well, Iâm pleased to say that for me and many others, times have changed with the advent of home working.
During the Covid-19 Pandemic, home working was a necessity for many of us, but as movement restrictions were relaxed, things slowly returned to normal as did many to their places of work. Many Employers however, introduced home working or hybrid working policies which allowed those that could, to work from home either full or part time.
Home working risks
Home working, also known as remote working or telecommuting, comes with its own set of risks and responsibilities for both Workers and Employers.
The Health & Safety Executive guidance states that:
âEmployers have the same health & safety responsibilities for people working at home as they have for any other workersâ.
Some common home working risks are reviewed below:
Physical Ergonomics: Many Workers may not have proper ergonomic setups at home, leading to discomfort, musculoskeletal issues, or injuries from poor posture or workspace design.
Mental Health: Isolation, loneliness, and work-related stress can be more prevalent in remote workers. Lack of social interaction and blurred work-life boundaries can contribute to mental health challenges. Some Workers may end up overworking or feeling guilty for taking breaks.
Data Security: Working remotely can increase the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks, especially if Workers use unsecured networks or devices for work.
Communication Challenges: Remote work can lead to miscommunication, misunderstandings, or reduced collaboration due to the absence of face-to-face interactions.
Working environment: All homes are different and were not designed as workplaces meaning that home working risks can include, electrical equipment shock/fire, trips and falls, lone working and emergencies.
Arinite will always advise customers to manage home working risks just like they do in the workplace, although both the Employer and the Worker will have respective responsibilities as outlined below.
Employers Responsibilities
Provide necessary and safe equipment: Employers must ensure that remote Workers have the necessary tools and equipment to perform their tasks safely and efficiently, such as adjustable chairs, keyboards, computers or other ergonomic equipment. Electrical equipment must be inspected for electrical safety periodically in accordance with the Employerâs risk assessment.
Mental health support: Employers can offer resources and support for mental health, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or regular check-ins to address remote workers' well-being.
Data security: Employers must implement and communicate clear data security policies and provide tools like VPNs and encrypted communication channels to safeguard company data.
Communication and collaboration tools: Employers must provide remote Workers with reliable communication and collaboration tools to facilitate effective remote work.
Work-life balance: Employers should encourage Workers to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life and promote a healthy work-life balance.
Workers Responsibilities
Ergonomic setup: Workers must create a comfortable and ergonomic workspace at home to minimise the risk of physical strain or injuries. Applying the key principles from DSE Assessments is a good way to achieve this such as sitting on/adjusting an office type chair, setting computer monitor(s) up at the correct height, avoiding glare on the screen(s), using separate keyboard/mouse and using hands free systems for telephony work.
Working environment: A home is not designed like a place of work and many of the standards for maintenance wonât apply. While we are not advocating replacing your home comforts and installing equipment found in offices, Workers must consider emergencies like fires and escape routes, becoming immobile alone for long periods following a fall or sudden illness. Itâs a good idea to have plans in place for such emergencies.
Communication: Workers must actively communicate with colleagues and supervisors to stay engaged, report any issues, and maintain effective collaboration.
Data Security: Workers must adhere to company data security policies, use secure networks, and protect company information from potential breaches.
Wellbeing and work life balance: Remote Workers should prioritise their mental health by taking regular breaks, staying connected with co-workers, and seeking support when needed. Set yourself boundaries, establish a routine, and manage your time effectively to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Arinite have been assisting our customers with safety/healthy home working arrangements for some time and produced a Home Working Factsheet AF230 which provides information on legal requirements, homeworking hazards and risk assessments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while remote working offers flexibility and convenience, it also brings certain risks and responsibilities.
Employers and Workers both play crucial roles in ensuring the success and safety of remote work arrangements. Clear communication, support, and adherence to policies are essential to mitigate risks and maintain productivity and well-being in a remote work environment.
Contact us
Arinite clients worldwide appreciate we provide practical, no-nonsense advice about what you need to do to establish and maintain a safe and healthy working environment. Our team of health and safety consultants take pride in keeping health and safety simple. If you need to call upon our expert assistance, or just for an informal chat, please call our office +44 207 947 9581, or type an enquiry to: https://www.arinite.com/contact-us/.
Derek McStea
Written by