Working From Home - a post COVID legacy
Let’s take a helicopter view of what factors need to be considered when:
employers formalise Working from Home as an engagement option,
sole traders and entrepreneurs start from a home office
working from home is often the only option for people like me, whose health does not allow for an everyday work commute
parents return to work and want to mix it up with childcare responsibilities.
Business Monitor, in partnership with iSafe provides WFH risk assessments for labour hire providers, Government agencies, international clients and a number of working from home independent contractors.
It has long been recognised that Working from Home as an employment solution presents its own unique set of risks and challenges.
It is important that these are recognised and supported by the risk management program, as every PCBU - person conducting a business undertaking - whether an individual or an international corporation - has responsibility under WHS legislation to ensure workers are safe at work, wherever they are working.
The four fundamental tools you should have in place when offering Working from Home or hybrid work solutions are:
A Working from Home Policy
A Home Office Site Assessment Form - that should be undertaken by a third party - this can be done online with photos and videos. This process is one of the great legacies from the COVID pandemic.
A Workstation Ergonomic Check - again done by a third party.
A Psychosocial Checklist
A snapshot of what should be considered:
Ergonomic and Physical Risks
Poor workstation setup can cause musculoskeletal issues (e.g., back pain, eye strain).
Prolonged sitting and lack of movement contribute to long-term health risks.
Limited access to correct ergonomic equipment compared to office environments can contribute to reduced engagement and stress.
Psychosocial Hazards
Isolation and loneliness can lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout.
Technostress from constant connectivity and digital overload affects mental health.
High job demands without team support can increase stress and fatigue.
Emergency and Medical Risks
Delayed response to medical emergencies (e.g., asthma attack, cardiac event, trips and falls) when working alone.
No immediate help for accidents or injuries, especially in rural or isolated areas.
Environmental and Travel Hazards
Extreme weather, wildlife, or vehicle breakdowns for workers in remote or mobile roles.
Road accidents are a leading risk for workers who may be traveling between sites.
Practical Controls and Solutions
✅A Home Office Risk Assessment as a pre-requisite to any agreed WFH engagement.
✅Regular check-ins via phone or app to maintain connection and accountability
✅Safe travel policies and checklists including fatigue management and route planning.
✅Lone worker apps and wearable alarms with GPS, SOS buttons, and “man down” detection.
✅Ergonomic assessments and equipment allowance for home setups.
✅Mental health support, training, and clear boundaries around availability.
Contact Business Monitor if you would like to discuss how we can help you with managing your Working from Home/hybrid and remote worker responsibilities. https://businessmonitor.com.au/contact