Free Working From Home Policy Template
Download our free Working From Home Policy Template:
*For internal use only. Not for resale or redistribution. By downloading, you agree to our Free Resources Licensing Agreement.
Purpose of a Working From Home Policy
A Working From Home Policy outlines the framework and expectations related to remote work arrangements. These policies aim to create a safe and healthy working environment by managing the risks associated with working remotely, ensuring the well-being of employees, and minimizing potential hazards.
How to Use
This Working From Home Policy template should be customised by a competent person, signed by a top-level manager (e.g. the director), and displayed in the workplace or provided by other means (e.g. website). It should also be communicated to new workers as part of their induction or onboarding process.
This document is a template only and it must be customised for your business. Other aspects that need to be considered include ensuring that:
- Relevant legal requirements have been met,
- Workplace specific risks are identified and managed, and
- Workers are consulted with during the customisation / review process.
When to Use
This document should be displayed in a prominent area or uploaded to your website/ centralized document system. You should also use it during employee inductions, and you may wish to refresh your workers on the contents of the policy periodically as part of a safety meeting or refresher training.
Who Should Use
This document should be endorsed with the signature of the appropriate top-level manager (such as a director). It can be used by your Safety Advisor, Project Manager, or other Manager/s to communicate the requirements to workers (including new workers).
Legal Considerations
Generally, under the WHS legislation, there is no specific legal requirement to have or display a Working From Home Policy. However, it is best practice. It can help meet general legal duties, including:
s(19)(3)a WHS Act – Duty to Provide a Safe Working Environment
Workers also have legal responsibilities, including:
- s(28) WHS Act – Duty of workers:
- Taking care of yourself
- Taking care of others
- Following procedure
- Following instruction
FAQ
What is a Working From Home Policy?
A working from home policy is a set of guidelines and procedures established by an organization to govern remote work arrangements for its employees. It outlines expectations, requirements, and best practices for employees who work outside of traditional office settings, typically from their homes.
Why is establishing a Work From Home Policy important?
A working from home policy is important because it provides clarity and consistency for both employees and employers regarding remote work arrangements. It helps ensure that remote work is conducted effectively, safely, and in compliance with organizational policies.
How is performance evaluated for employees working from home?
Performance evaluation for employees working from home is typically based on agreed-upon metrics, goals, and deliverables outlined in the working from home policy.
Did you know?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the widespread adoption of working from home policies led to some unexpected trends, including a surge in virtual team-building activities like online escape rooms, virtual happy hours, and even virtual pet shows! These creative solutions helped remote teams stay connected and fostered a sense of camaraderie despite physical distance.
Article Sources and Further Reading
- The Complete Guide to WHS Policies and Procedures in Australia (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/guide-to-whs-policies-and-procedures/>
- What is a WHSMS (Work Health and Safety Management System)? (Spire Safety) <https://spiresafety.com.au/resources/what-is-a-whsms/>
Work Health and Safety Policy (Safe Work NSW) <https://www.nsw.gov.au/enterprise-investment-trade/policy/work-health-and-safety>