The Federal Government’s recent 3-stage easing of restrictions outlines a gradual return to business for many workplaces.
Stages 1 and 2 maintain that where employees can work from home, they should continue to do so.
Stage 3 outlines a return to the workplace while adhering to physical distancing and hygiene guidelines.
The plan outlines that states and territories will move at different rates, so it is important to consider the applicable regulatory and health department guidelines in your state.
Employers are required to consult with employees and follow guidelines for safe working from home.
1. SafeWork Australia Checklist: What can I do to keep my workers safe at the workplace and limit the spread of COVID-19?
Outlines key criteria for:
- Working from home
- Physical distancing
- Hand washing and hygiene
- Cleaning
- Managing unwell employees
- Planning for business continuity
2. Comcare working from home checklist during COVID-19.
Outlines key considerations for employees who are working from home for a short period, such as a 14-day isolation period.
Employers have a duty of care to provide a safe place of work, wherever this may be. Employees who will be required to work from home for longer periods will require equipment and work task design that allows them to safely perform their job. It is the duty of employers to monitor the work environment, which can be achieved by using an ergonomic workstation checklist and photos or videos.
For office-based workers, working at home using a laptop and domestic furniture will not be ideal and may result in discomfort and musculoskeletal injury.
Key items for office type work in the home include:
- a desk or table at a suitable height and large enough to accommodate equipment
- a chair that provides adequate lumbar support and a footstool if the desk is too high
- a separate monitor screen with a laptop dock or stand
- a separate keyboard and mouse
Equipment can be borrowed from the workplace or purchased by the employer with agreement about ownership at the end of the work from home period. You should consider whether your employees will continue to work from home, even on a part-time basis, for the longer term.
Other considerations:
- adequate lighting and absence of glare
- adequate ventilation and heating
- clear access to the work setup and the absence of trip hazards (power cords, loose rugs)
- the flexibility to stand and work or to take breaks to move around and stretch
- suitable noise levels
- regular contact with supervisors and colleagues to monitor workload and wellbeing
Assistance to set up a workstation at home.
We can help you to:
ü navigate state specific safe workplace guidelines
ü develop a consultation framework
ü complete a checklist (you can use the one below) for your employees and develop protocols to identify and monitor remote working risks
ü identify the correct equipment for individuals
ü train employees in workstation setup including chair adjustment and strategies to incorporate movement into their day
ü plan the transition back into your office
For more information or assistance to complete a virtual ergonomic assessment contact Suzie George at suzie@suzannegeorge.com.au
Comments