It’s safe to say the professional world has transformed dramatically in recent years. The way many of us work looks far different since the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe.
Shifting employment trends and patterns always have a knock-on effect on employer policies and responsibilities. Changing work routines and perceptions mean that managing risk for employers extends far outside of the office now, which brings about important questions for employee safety.
The rise of remote work
Remote working has become the norm in many industries now. The pandemic forced businesses and individuals to adapt and many realised that working from home was a very real possibility for the entire workforce.
Even since the pandemic has come to an end, remote working is very much here to stay in industries that allow it. ONS figures suggest that 16% of people still work from home entirely and nearly 30% have taken up a hybrid approach.
Companies that assumed remote work wouldn’t be sustainable have been proven wrong in many cases, with employees and employers alike benefitting substantially from remote and hybrid policies.
The benefits of flexible working
Employees have been able to gain a better work-life balance by working from home more often. Commuting takes hours out of the average week, and retrieving this time helps people to sort life admin and spend more time switching off after work.
Employers have been able to gain greatly too. Flexible working is now a significant feature to help employers attract and retain top talent. Productivity is also reported to have increased with more remote working, which is great news for any employer.
The challenges of flexible working and safety
Managing a split workforce is a challenge and brings with it some complexities for health and safety. Employees in office environments can be more easily monitored and risks mitigated more effectively in a company environment.
However, people working from home are difficult to protect and monitor. Remote workers are undoubtedly more isolated, which is perhaps why they’re reportedly at greater risk of symptoms of anxiety and depression. Ergonomic and cybersecurity threats can also be challenging to mitigate in home environments.
Liability for accidents at home while working is certainly more legally murky. Faulty company equipment can leave employers vulnerable to personal injury claims, but other accidents are more difficult to take responsibility for.
Safety policies and guidelines for remote workers
Setting out clear company policies and guidelines for remote work is crucial to ensure that all employees receive the same level of care and protection. Providing ergonomic home office equipment, if needed, and training on self-care can be positive steps.
Maintaining open communication with remote workers is equally important to make them feel like they can raise issues or concerns. Investing in Mental Health First Aid training for line managers and leaders is a proactive approach to help identify signs of destructive anxiety and depression in employees.
