“Just because someone is working from home doesn’t mean that employers’ obligations are lessened.”
Those were the words of a personal injury lawyer cited by Office Brands when the company warned employers of the possible surge in home work injury insurance claims as more than 60% of Australia’s office staff currently work remotely from their respective residences.
Office Brands chief executive Gavin Ward noted: “When the COVID-19 pandemic picked up, millions of Australians were thrown into a work environment they’ve never been in before. Most Australians don’t design their home to act as their permanent office, so there are a number of risks that businesses need to be aware of during these difficult times.
“I’m expecting that the number of workplace injuries reported by staff will soar over the coming months. A lot of business owners simply don’t know what a safe working-from-home environment looks like and what they’re liable for.”
Ward is of the view that not many businesses are prepared to properly institute and monitor safe working conditions at home and that there is a long list of things to consider including ergonomics. The CEO added that employees themselves also have a responsibility to ensure their own health and safety.
“At home, you’re at risk of mixing your at-home comfort with your work life,” warned Ward. “Don’t work on the couch or the bed and don’t slouch. Basically, when you’re working from home, don’t make yourself at home.
“If you can prove to your employer that you’re a safe at-home worker, you can convince them to allow you to occasionally work at home even when the COVID-19 pandemic ends. I can see COVID reshaping the way people work across the country. I can also see home work injuries becoming a big issue unless things such as ergonomics and set-up are well managed.”
