As QRMC has discussed in previous issues of Insight, telecommuting or working from a home-based office is an increasing trend of modern workplaces.

Mobile devices, web-based software, cloud storage and other technological advancements support the migration of work from formal business properties, during business hours, to any number of suitable and unsuitable external premises at any hour of the day or night.

In light of this ongoing trend, it is appropriate for employers (or PCBUs) to remind themselves that WHS-related duties and obligations apply to all work environments, be they a business office or other worksite, or an employee’s home from which they are undertaking work duties. The requirement to provide a safe working environment and system of work, and to train and supervise workers appropriately, holds for all work environments.

The following steps can assist a PCBU to accurately assess and manage the safety risks pertaining to home-based work environments:

  • Inspect or obtain photos of the home workspace
  • Conduct an inaugural and annual risk assessment, incorporating all of the items which would be checked in a business workspace, such as ergonomic setup, fit-for-purpose equipment, environmental conditions, housekeeping, access and egress, smoke alarms, emergency procedures, remote and isolated risks etc. Consider engaging an objective third-party to undertake these risk assessments, at least the first time.
  • Document the potential hazards to worker safety
  • Provide instruction to the worker about safe working methods appropriate to their duties and the workspace
  • Develop and implement a process for workers (and other parties involved) for the identification and reporting of hazards and injuries
  • Develop and implement processes to supervise and keep in regular contact with employees (particularly in the context of remote and isolated risks)
  • If training is undertaken with office-based workers, ensure home-based workers are included
  • Review the arrangements at least annually to ensure that they are still appropriate, are being complied with by the worker, and are safe for the worker.

Also refer to QRMC’s Insight article Importance of home office risk assessments from August 2013.

Please contact QRMC for more information.