What health and safety issues should I be considering as a teleworker?

Hazards can arise from electrical equipment and Visual Display Units (VDUs), or from equipment and fittings in the room where you work. These may include the workstation, seating, lighting, heating and ventilation and so on.

Work with VDUs can give rise to back pain or RSI, stress or visual discomfort if you don't take precautions. See our working with display screens section for more information.

The Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations also apply to teleworkers. These require employers to assess and reduce risks; ensure workstations meet minimum requirements; plan breaks or changes of activity; provide eye tests on request; and provide health and safety training and information.

You should also:

• Avoid the need to carry heavy or awkward items unsafely, for example, don’t store heavy files or equipment on high or flimsy shelves.
• Make sure the equipment provided is appropriate and that you get training if you need it. Your employer is responsible for the safety of the equipment they supply for teleworking.
• Check that all electrical goods comply with existing safety regulations. Your employer is responsible for checking compliance. Your domestic electrical system is your own responsibility.
• Report all faults which may be a hazard to your own or others’ health. This is your responsibility.
• Ensuring adequate first-aid provisions. Exact provisions depend on the nature of the telework activities, but are the responsibility of your employer.

You have the right to stop work in the event of serious danger arising from the work you are doing, without affecting your employment rights. In the event of this, your employer should be informed as soon as possible.

In the event of an accident or injury, you should report this to your employer, who has a responsibility to record all personal injuries in an accident book.

If you feel that your home workplace is unsafe, and that your employer is not taking action to help you, you have the right (the same as any other worker) to contact the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to enforce safety. You would be expected, in most cases, to approach your employer or trade union first.

See our information on the legal status of teleworking.