The shift to remote work has reshaped the modern workplace, offering flexibility and autonomy but also introduced some new challenges, particularly in protecting employee well-being. Health and safety compliance is no longer limited to ergonomically designed office spaces; it's now a critical factor in managing a scattered, home-based workforce.
For HR, it's not just about legal obligations—it's about boosting productivity, morale, and company reputation. As remote work becomes the norm, prioritising health and safety is key to maintaining a thriving, engaged workforce and preventing burnout.
In this article, NFP’s Director of Health and Safety Jonathan Williams and Director of HR Services and Organisational Change Steve Foulger both explore how prioritising health and safety in remote work environments pays off—not just for employees, but for HR departments and businesses as a whole.
The latest Health and Safety Executive (HSE) updates regarding home and remote working
New rules on Display Screen Assessments (DSE)
HSE as updated its guidance on remote work1, requiring employers to ensure that home environments are as safe as the office. This includes having employees complete a Display Screen Equipment (DSE) assessment, addressing any ergonomic issues with their workspace. Companies with five or more employees must maintain written, auditable DSE assessments for each staff member.
Mental health and wellbeing
HSE has again emphasised the importance of supporting remote workers’ mental health2, as isolation, stress, and burnout are becoming more common due to reduced social interaction and blurred work-life boundaries. Employers should encourage open discussions, schedule regular check-ins, and provide access to mental health resources to foster a supportive remote work culture.
Data security
As remote work increases, data security has become a top priority. The HSE highlights the need for strong security protocols to protect sensitive information3. This includes providing secure devices, using encryption, and offering regular security training. It’s essential for remote workers to follow best practices in data protection to prevent breaches and uphold the integrity of company data.
The HR benefits of health and safety compliance while working from home
1. Increased productivity
When employees feel healthy and safe, productivity rises, absenteeism drops, and performance becomes more consistent. Supported both physically and mentally, they can focus and deliver quality results. In a hybrid world, this has become more challenging, and the HSE’s latest guidance makes it clear that employers are responsible for ensuring safe home and remote working.
2. Improved employee retention and satisfaction
A safe, supportive remote working environment boosts employee morale, fostering loyalty and commitment. Employees who feel valued are less likely to seek other opportunities, and high retention saves on recruitment costs and builds a cohesive, collaborative team. Feeling safe and comfortable while working from home helps employees avoid distractions and perform their best.
3. Legal risk mitigation
Neglecting health and safety obligations can result in serious legal consequences. Ensuring compliance protects organisations from potential claims and fines while safeguarding their reputation and finances. Proactively addressing these issues shows your commitment to employee welfare and strengthens your organisation’s defences in disputes.
This extends to remote and home working, where some of the risks are different, such as an increased feeling of isolation. At its most extreme levels, this could manifest in domestic abuse and at a much lower levels, dealing with constant flows of distractions that may impact the working day.
4. Build on company reputation for wellbeing
In today's competitive job market, companies that prioritise employee well-being stand out. Promoting a culture of health and safety helps attract top talent and fosters a reputation as a caring employer. Prospective employees are increasingly drawn to organisations committed to workforce welfare.
As "work from anywhere" becomes more common, organisations face increasing pressure to clarify expectations, balance flexibility, and implement controls and risk measures to ensure everyone's safety.
5. Cost efficiency
Reducing workplace injuries and health issues helps organisations minimise costs related to absenteeism, medical claims, and turnover. Effective compliance fosters a healthier workforce, lowering healthcare premiums and boosting productivity.
As remote work continues to shape the future of employment, investing in health and safety measures is not just a legal obligation but a strategic advantage that benefits both employees and your organisation as a whole.
Steve Foulger, Director of HR Services and Organisational Change
With over 20 years of experience in the HR field, Steve has maintained an exceptional track record delivering pragmatic, sustainable and commercially focused solutions through high performing teams, across various industries and sectors. Whether you're a growing business or an established organisation, our tailored outsourced solutions make people expertise more accessible than ever.
Jonathan Williams CMIOSH, Managing Director - Health and Safety
For over 25 years, Jon has been supporting businesses on health and safety and employment law matters through offering bespoke, sensible, practical and cost effective risk management solutions. NFP’s health and safety division is on hand to provide a holistic service that helps safeguard your people’s safety at work, as well as their long-term physical and mental health.