The Government’s advice remains that those who can work from home should continue to do so. To ensure businesses meet their statutory obligation under health and safety legislation, employees should be encouraged to conduct a risk assessment to ensure their home working set up is safe, suitable and to mitigate any risks identified.
In normal circumstances, employers would usually carry out assessments themselves, but Covid-19 means this is not possible, so self-assessments or assessments via video link are more likely. Employers must also mitigate the risks associated with using Display Screen Equipment for home workers, the same as in the office. Workers should also be directed to carry out a DSE workstation assessment from home.
There is no direct legal obligation on employers to provide equipment to facilitate homeworking. However, a duty to provide equipment may arise if such equipment is necessary to ensure health and safety. Employers should also be mindful of their duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled workers, which could include providing equipment or additional help to facilitate self-risk assessments for disabled employees working from home.
If you would like more information about your obligations to protect staff who are working from home. Please get in touch with one of our team.