The Remote Work Revolution: Ensuring Employee Safety and Flexibility

As the landscape of work continues to evolve, remote and hybrid working models have become increasingly prevalent. This shift has highlighted the importance of ensuring employee safety and providing flexibility, especially during times like the summer holidays when balancing work and personal life becomes crucial. Here, we explore the importance of ergonomics in remote working, supported by the bespoke solutions provided by DSE Assessments Ltd.

The Rise of Remote and Hybrid Working

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly accelerated the shift towards remote and hybrid working models. According to recent data, 44% of UK workers currently work remotely at least some of the time, with 16% working exclusively from home and 28% adopting a hybrid model​ (StandOut CV)​​ (Office for National Statistics)​. This flexibility has been a benefit for many, particularly parents and carers who benefit from the ability to manage their professional and personal responsibilities more effectively.

DSE Assessments Ltd: Pioneering Remote Work Safety

DSE Assessments Ltd has been instrumental in helping businesses navigate this transition. One of our clients now allows all employees to work remotely during the month of August, giving employees flexibility to work from home or abroad – a real benefit to many working parents / carers! They have leveraged our bespoke approach to our assessment programs to ensure ergonomic safety and compliance with health standards for anyone wishing to participate in this ‘global working’ scheme. This proactive approach not only enhances employee well-being but also boosts productivity by providing a better work-life balance.

Ergonomic Considerations for Remote Work

If you don’t have the equipment you would normally use in the office, consideration should be given to the ergonomic layout/position of equipment available to adopt and comfortable and supportive posture. Here is some guidance to follow:

• Desk - Using a desk or table will help you to sit more upright.
• Chair - If you do not have an adjustable chair, use what you have available. Try and position your arms at right angles, with horizontal forearms and straight wrists, avoiding resting heavily on your arms. If your chair is not adjustable and you are sitting too low, use a cushion to raise your sitting height. It is also recommended that your feet are fully supported so please consider this when any changes are made to your sitting height. If your lower back does not feel supported, try using a cushion to see if this helps. If you would like a break from sitting, consider standing, possibly working with the laptop on a raised surface such as a kitchen worktop/breakfast bar.
• Laptop - It is recommended that the laptop screen is raised on a stand to discourage poor posture and reduce the risk of discomfort. Do not use your laptop on your knee as this will encourage poor posture. Make sure you take regular breaks to avoid visual fatigue and eye strain.
• Keyboard & Mouse - A separate keyboard and mouse must be used when a laptop stand is used to avoid working with elevated arms and poor wrist positions. To minimise the risk of discomfort in your shoulders, arms, wrists and hands, please check your sitting height and arm positions, as detailed above in the ‘Chair/Desk’ information.
• Taking Breaks - It is recommended you change your position and get up and move around regularly to prevent being in a static position for too long. The key is not to sit in a static posture for too long. If you feel you need to take a break, then take one.

For temporary remote working, this guide will assist you in utilising the equipment you currently have available to you. However, if remote working is going to be long-term as part of full-time or hybrid working, then investment would be needed to provide fully adjustable and compliant equipment.

Flexibility for Parents and Carers

The summer holidays present a unique challenge for parents and carers, who need to balance work with childcare. Many companies are now allowing flexible remote work schedules during this period. This flexibility helps maintain productivity while enabling employees to manage their home responsibilities, thus supporting a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

Global Trends and Statistics

Remote working is not just a trend in the UK but a global phenomenon. In 2023, 58% of UK employers offered remote work to all viable staff, and 78% of employees reported an improved work-life balance when working from home​ (Post Parliament)​​ (House Grail)​. Additionally, there has been a notable increase in the number of digital nomads, with top destinations including Mexico, Thailand, and Portugal due to their favourable working conditions​ (StandOut CV)​.

The Benefits of Flexible Remote Work Policies

1. Increased Productivity: Employees with flexible work arrangements often experience higher productivity.
2. Higher Job Satisfaction: Flexibility leads to higher job satisfaction and employee retention.
3. Diverse Talent Pool: Remote work options attract a broader range of candidates, including those needing to work from various locations due to personal commitments.

The shift towards remote and hybrid working models presents an opportunity for businesses to rethink how they support their employees. By ensuring ergonomic safety and providing flexible work options, companies can enhance productivity, job satisfaction, and overall well-being. DSE Assessments Ltd is committed to helping businesses navigate this transition smoothly, ensuring that remote working is safe, efficient, and beneficial for all.

If your organisation is looking to enhance its remote working policies and ensure ergonomic safety for your employees, contact DSE Assessments Ltd today. Learn more about our bespoke solutions and how we can help your team thrive in a flexible work environment.

Contact our team for more information or to talk about your business needs.

Tel: 0844 335 6188

Email: mailto:info@dse-assessments.co.uk