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0 pointsyitchelle7y ago0 comments

Interested to hear how HR and OH&S are able to reconcile the situation so that everything is legal.

We had a tough situation my workplace to get this going. Once a framework is available and all the legals are checked, it went smoothly.

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8 comments · 2 top-level

wool_gather7y ago· 6 in thread

I'm curious what the legal issues would be; could you expand on your concerns?

yitchelleOP7y ago

The legal issues are obviously regional based, but most of them would be universal.

Off the top of my head.

* Ensure that your workplace is a physically safe place. ie enough lighting, correct furnishing etc.

* The data you are working with is protected adequately. ie A separate room with lockable door and window.

* The infrastructure is adequate. ie internet, electricity, water and toileting.

* Insurable if something goes wrong.

* How your work time is measured. This is particular important if your industry is covered by union rules.

planetburgess7y ago

In the USA the Department of OHSA specifically says that it (and the employer) don't bear responsibility for a home based work site. They won't do site inspections and the best they can do is give tips to the worker and have the worker complete a self-assessment. Overseas this is viewed very differently. e.g. in Australia and UK the employer is responsible for worker safety even if they are working from home.

https://www.osha.gov/enforcement/directives/cpl-02-00-125

"OSHA will not conduct inspections of employees' home offices.

OSHA will not hold employers liable for employees' home offices, and does not expect employers to inspect the home offices of their employees.

If OSHA receives a complaint about a home office, the complainant will be advised of OSHA's policy. If an employee makes a specific request, OSHA may informally let employers know of complaints about home office conditions, but will not follow-up with the employer or employee."

ghaff7y ago

I assume one potential issue is the question of where people are actually working from. Although in my experience, most people have an official location even if they’re rarely there. It may differ with consultants etc. who may be working from a customer site for months.

spyspy7y ago

We were told that for tax purposes, employees are only allowed to work in states/countries that already have an established office. My company has offices all over the place so it's not particularly restrictive but still a strict limit from working _anywhere_.

1 more reply

joncrane7y ago

Data protection and worker's comp in my experience.

JustFinishedBSG7y ago

Insurance when the employee is not here I guess

brogrammernot7y ago

First off, holy shit. I come back from travel and arguably the least interesting comment I’ve made on a thread in years is the highest upvote one I’ve had lol

Now on to your question - We haven’t had any issues here with the HR policies and OH&S so far.

Each of the team members is in the same state as the office so no additional burden there for taxes.

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