Working From Home Health and Safety: How Safe Is Your Team’s Homeworking Setup?
The shift to home and hybrid working has transformed the way many organisations operate. While it offers fantastic flexibility and freedom, it also brings new challenges, especially when it comes to employee wellbeing.
A recent study by the ONS found that 14% of working adults now work entirely from home, with 26-28% adopting hybrid working practices. So, knowledge of what a good homeworking set-up is vital.
Why Working From Home Health and Safety Matters
A poor homeworking setup can lead to back pain, eye strain, fatigue and long-term musculoskeletal issues.
On the flip side, a well-considered workspace helps employees stay comfortable, focused and productive.
As employers, it’s our responsibility to make sure the right support is in place.
Legal Responsibilities for Employers
Jo Blood from Posture People had this advice.
“A safe, ergonomic home workspace isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s a legal and moral obligation. Under the Display Screen Equipment (DSE) requirements for the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, employers have a duty of care, even when staff are working remotely.”
She went on to explain there are two key points:
- You must have a DSE assessment for the home location (if someone has a hybrid working pattern you must have an assessment for both locations).
- If the assessment at home shows that your employee needs different equipment, the employee cannot be charged for the equipment.
This reinforces the importance of managing remote working health and safety responsibilities correctly.
Benefits of a Good Homeworking Setup
The benefits of having a good home set up are enormous:
- Fewer aches and pains
- Less time off sick
- Happier, more engaged staff
- Better productivity
- Legal peace of mind
What a Safe and Compliant Homeworking Setup Includes
Here are the essentials:
- Ergonomic furniture: An adjustable chair and proper desk can make a world of difference. No one should be hunched over a laptop at the kitchen table all day.
- Screen positioning: Monitors should be at eye level, about an arm’s length away.
- Keyboard and mouse: Should allow for relaxed shoulders, straight wrists, and elbows at 90°.
- Lighting: Natural light is ideal, but glare should be avoided. Task lighting can help.
- Temperature and air quality: A well-ventilated, comfortable space is key.
- Technology: A stable internet connection and secure access to company systems are essential.
- Movement: Encourage micro-breaks and regular stretching throughout the day.
What Employers Should Do to Stay Compliant
- Provide a DSE self-assessment checklist – employees can evaluate their own space
- Offer equipment or allowances – even a small contribution can go a long way (and have guidelines on what equipment qualifies as DSE compliant.
- Host webinars or training sessions – educate staff on good posture and workspace tips
- Follow up – check in regularly to review needs and changes
Services such as HR Smart’s HR Manager Service and HR Helpline can provide ongoing support and guidance.
Practical Tips for Homeworkers
- Use cushions or books to adjust seat height or monitor position
- Raise laptops using stands or boxes (paired with separate keyboards/mice)
- Take short breaks every 30 minutes—stand, stretch, move
- Don’t suffer in silence—flag discomfort early on
Do Employers Legally Have to Provide This Support?
Bottom line – yes. Legally, it’s a must.
But remember: employees are the most expensive asset for any business, and by doing a DSE assessment and creating a good setup, they will be more productive.
If you would like to know more about DSE, Posture People has this handy guide.
Supporting homeworking setups is about more than ticking a box; it’s about showing you care.
When people are properly supported, they do their best work.
Support for SMEs in West Sussex
Many small and medium-sized businesses across West Sussex are now managing hybrid or remote teams.
Ensuring safe and compliant homeworking arrangements is essential for protecting your people and meeting your legal duties.
If you have any questions or concerns about your work-from-home policies, contact HR Smart today.
