Modern technology has made it easier than ever for employees to work from home while staying connected to their employer. Remote employment has become a growing trend as businesses expand into global markets and look for ways to reduce overhead. Many companies find they can lower costs and offer more competitive pricing by allowing workers to remotely commute.
Despite the benefits, there are downsides. Employers often ask how to ensure workplace safety when an employee’s physical workplace is their home and what liability the employer may have for remote work.
OSHA guidance covers some safety issues for remote employment. Employers are still responsible for maintaining a safe workplace for remote employees, but OSHA generally will not require an employer to inspect a home worksite and does not routinely inspect private residences. OSHA may investigate a home worksite if there is a complaint or a situation that suggests a serious health or safety hazard. Employers subject to OSHA recordkeeping must maintain records of occupational illnesses and injuries for at-home workers.
Employers should take practical, non-intrusive steps to support safety for remote workers, and can consult relevant resources such as Safety and Compliance in Distribution Centers when developing policies and procedures.
The absence of immediate supervision is a common challenge for remote work. Experienced, long-term employees can become complacent, feel overfamiliar with job hazards, and sometimes take shortcuts that increase risk.
A holistic approach helps counteract complacency by encouraging every employee to take responsibility for safety. Whether working at home, on the road, or at a client site, remote employees should be prepared and able to take appropriate actions to protect themselves.
Get employee buy-in by involving remote staff in identifying hazards and designing controls; their firsthand knowledge is valuable in creating safer remote worksites. Consider specific risks tied to mobile tools and connectivity, and review guidance like Workers Compensation and Mobile Devices when evaluating exposures and training needs.
Employees who understand the value of safety are more likely to adopt safe behaviors over the long term. Reinforce positive safety attitudes with regular electronic or person-to-person counseling and active encouragement from safety managers, and if you need personalized help, talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does OSHA require employers to inspect an employee’s home worksite?
OSHA generally does not require employers to inspect private residences, but it may inspect a home worksite if a complaint or apparent serious hazard is reported.
Are at-home injuries and illnesses subject to the same recordkeeping rules?
If an employer is covered by OSHA recordkeeping requirements, injuries and illnesses of at-home workers must be recorded like other workplace incidents.
Can an employer set safety policies that apply to home workspaces?
Employers can establish safety policies, provide guidance, and require training, but they should avoid attempting to control the employee’s private home environment.
How can employers involve remote employees in safety efforts?
Invite remote workers to help identify hazards, suggest controls, participate in training, and report near-misses to improve safety programs.