Home Working Health and Safety Guidance

Home working has become a common part of modern life, offering flexibility, independence, and work–life balance. However, it’s important to remember that health and safety responsibilities apply just as much in a home office as they do in a traditional workplace. Employers and employees must work together to ensure safe and healthy remote working conditions.

Why Home Working Health and Safety Matters

Even though the home may feel comfortable, it can still present risks. Poor workstation setup, long hours without breaks, and inadequate lighting or ventilation can lead to fatigue, eye strain, and musculoskeletal problems. Understanding your legal responsibilities and best practices helps prevent accidents, injuries, and long-term health issues.

Employer Responsibilities for Home Workers

Employers have a duty of care to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their employees — whether they work on-site or remotely. This includes carrying out risk assessments for home working environments and providing support or equipment where necessary. Key responsibilities include:

  • Conducting home working risk assessments to identify potential hazards
  • Providing guidance on correct workstation setup and ergonomics
  • Ensuring employees have safe electrical equipment and adequate lighting
  • Maintaining regular communication and mental health support for remote workers
  • Keeping policies up to date with HSE home working guidance

Employee Responsibilities

Employees also have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety while working from home. This includes following safe working practices and reporting any concerns. Recommended actions include:

  • Setting up a comfortable, well-lit, and tidy workspace
  • Taking regular breaks to reduce eye strain and fatigue
  • Using equipment safely and storing it properly when not in use
  • Maintaining good posture and ergonomic seating
  • Communicating openly about workload and well-being

Workstation and Ergonomic Setup

Ergonomic design is essential for comfort and long-term well-being. A well-arranged workstation supports productivity and reduces strain. Simple steps can make a big difference:

  • Adjust your chair so your feet rest flat on the floor and knees are level with hips
  • Position your screen at eye level, about an arm’s length away
  • Use a separate keyboard and mouse rather than a laptop track-pad
  • Keep frequently used items within easy reach

Mental Health and Well-being When Working from Home

Working from home can sometimes feel isolating, so maintaining social connections and mental well-being is just as important as physical safety. Employers should encourage regular check-ins, and employees should make time for breaks, exercise, and communication with colleagues.

Training in mental health awareness or stress Management can also help employees stay resilient and balanced while remote working.

Training and Further Guidance

Specialist health and safety short courses can help both employers and employees understand home working requirements. Topics such as risk assessment, DSE (Display Screen Equipment) awareness, and mental health first aid are particularly useful for those managing remote teams.

Safe home working is not just about compliance — it’s about protecting people’s well-being and supporting a productive, healthy workforce. With the right setup, training, and communication, employers can ensure that home working remains both flexible and safe.

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