Do you work from home?

In recent years, remote working has gained tremendous popularity. Traditional office-based work culture has turned into a more flexible and adaptable work environment. The advancements in technology also mean that employees can now perform their job duties from the comfort of their homes.

In 2020, the global pandemic played a massive role in accelerating remote working to ensure safety precautions for all.

However, employers want at-home workers in the office more. Working in the same physical space can enhance team collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving. Face-to-face interactions can lead to better communication and foster a sense of camaraderie among team members.

While remote work offers significant benefits, it also presents unique challenges for employers and employees when it comes to employment law.

Here are some key factors that both parties should consider:

•  Employee Rights: Employees working from home retain the same rights as they would in a traditional office environment. These rights include minimum wage, rest breaks, paid time off, and protection from unlawful termination.

• Employment Contracts and Agreements: If a company decides to offer remote work options to employees, it’s essential to update employment contracts and agreements to reflect the new work arrangement. Clear communication about expectations, responsibilities, working hours, and performance standards should be set.

• Health and Safety: Employers are generally responsible for ensuring employees are working in a safe working environment. This includes addressing any health and safety concerns raised by employees.  It is important to note that such matters as a safe working environment with a computer and monitor at the correct height for instance, or proper chairs to prevent back-pain can fall within these obligations and employers may find themselves needing to provide such equipment to employees who need it in their homes.

• Work Hours and Overtime: Ensuring work hours and overtime regulations is critical in a remote work setup. Employers must keep track of employee working hours, breaks, and overtime to prevent potential legal issues.  How this is done will depend on a case-by-case basis but employers will need to have a system in place in order to be able to show they have discharged this duty.

Working from home has transformed the way we approach work, providing flexibility and freedom that employees cherish.

Maintaining open communication with employees is essential to ensure that the remote work culture is working for both parties.

For any information regarding any employment matter, please contact Ilinca Mardarescu (Head of Employment) on imardarescu@astonbond.co.uk or call 01753 486 777.