Remote work – rules and rights in working life
Remote work means employees perform work from home or another location outside the employer's premises, often in combination with working at the office. The rules surrounding remote work are governed by, among other things, the Work Environment Act and the company's internal guidelines.
Who decides if remote work will apply?
It is primarily the employer who decides whether and how remote work should be applied. Employees can request to work from home, but the employer must assess whether it is possible without undue strain on the work environment and economy. In many cases, the conditions are clarified in employment contracts or home-working policies.
What applies according to the Work Environment Act for remote work?
Under the Work Environment Act, employers are required to ensure that health and safety are equally protected during work from home as in the workplace. This means employers must provide guidelines on posture, lighting, equipment, and ergonomics for remote work. Employers must also ensure that work environment efforts are not scattered, but that there are procedures for monitoring risks. Documentation and follow-up of work environment assessments must also be carried out for employees working from home.
Can an employee work from home abroad?
Work can be performed from abroad, but it usually requires a special agreement with the employer and consideration of tax, social security, and data protection matters. A typical agreement for remote work from abroad should clearly define where the workplace is considered to be located, which legislation applies, and how the work environment, IT security, and working hours are monitored.
Remote Work Policy and Where to Find the Rules
Rules regarding working from home can often be found in the company's remote work policy, local agreements, or collective bargaining agreements. These may include rules on workspace, working hours, equipment, travel to the office, team meetings, and occupational health and safety responsibilities. A clear policy reduces uncertainty and increases legal certainty for both employers and employees.
Frequently Asked Questions about Remote Work
Who decides if I get to work from home?
As a rule, the employer decides, but requests for remote work can be discussed through dialogue or via agreements and policy.
Must employers follow the Work Environment Act when employees work from home?
Yes – the Work Environment Act also applies to remote work, and the employer has the same responsibility for ergonomics and the psychosocial work environment.
Can you work from home in another country?
In principle, it's possible, but it requires clear agreements on the legal framework, work environment, taxation, and IT security. It's up to the employer to decide if it's feasible.
Where are the rules for remote work?
The rules are often found in employment contracts or the company's own remote work policy.