Consequences of not managing working from home risks

Consequences of not managing working from home risks
For individuals

Physical injuries from home hazards – slips, trips, falls.

Body stressing injuries from workstation setup.

Mental health conditions from isolation and disconnection with the workplace, poor work-life balance.

For employers
Personal Medical Alarms

Increased incidence of injury and workers’ compensation claims.

Higher absenteeism.

Lower productivity.

Prevent and manage risks
Physical work environment
Personal Alarms Australia

Risks
• Poor workstation set-up and physical hazards in the home.
• Inadequate lighting.

Medical Alert Devices

Controls
• Ensure furniture and computers are set up ergonomically and are suited to the task. Check that the workspace is free of clutter and trip hazards, and has adequate ventilation.
• Check the level of illumination and location of lighting fixtures are suited to the activity. Lighting level should be sufficient for visual tasks to be completed without eye strain.

View Comcare and Safe Work Australia guidance on managing work from home including checklists and tips.

Mental health
Personal Alarms Australia

Risks
• Isolation from managers, colleagues and support networks.
• Not having clear boundaries between home-life and work-life.

Medical Alert Devices

Controls
• Set clear work expectations
• Ensure regular contact with team and managers – maintain a dialogue around work practices and supports.
• Establish boundaries around work hours – friends, family and colleagues need to be aware of your work schedule.

Further information
Guidance

Comcare has a range of guidance to support safe and healthy home-based work:

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