For some, one's home has become a real workplace. But was it designed for that purpose?
There are several health and safety risks that can arise when working remotely from home. Some of the most common risks include:
- Ergonomic risks: Working from home often means that you may not have access to the same ergonomic equipment that you would have in an office setting. This can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries caused by improper posture or using equipment that is not designed for long-term use.
- Psychological risks: Working from home can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, which can have negative impacts on mental health. It is important to make an effort to stay connected with coworkers and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
- Cybersecurity risks: Working remotely can also increase the risk of cyber attacks, as you may be accessing company resources from a personal device that is not as secure as a company-provided device. It is important to take steps to protect your device and network from cyber threats.
- Physical safety risks: When working from home, it is important to consider the safety of your home environment. This includes taking steps to prevent incidents such as falls, fires, electricity and other hazards.
So, what can you do to make your home a safe place to work? The approach must be the same as in traditional workplaces: a (perhaps simplified) risk assessment to evaluate how to mitigate risks and, together with your manager or employer, implement corrective measures. This may include setting up a dedicated workspace with proper ergonomic equipment, staying connected with coworkers and maintaining a healthy work-life balance, taking steps to protect your device and network from cyber threats, and ensuring that your home environment is safe.
