The Department of Trade and Industry has launched new guidelines to safeguard the rights of teleworkers - those who work away from the traditional office environment through the use of modern technology. The code has been produced in conjunction with the TUC and the Confederation of British Industry.
The Government estimates that there are now more than two million people in the UK who work from home, an increase of 65 per cent in the last four years. The guidance sets out the legal requirements on a variety of employment issues including:
- health and safety issues, including ensuring that all electrical equipment complies with health and safety regulations and a proper risk assessment is carried out;
- allowances, expenses and tax matters;
- recruitment, training and career related issues;
- support for employees who may feel isolated when working from home;
- information security.
The code also gives examples of best practice for employers wishing to offer more flexible working conditions by allowing employees to work from home.
