Working from home has become a long-term reality for many employees. While it offers flexibility and convenience, remote work presents unique safety risks that aren’t always obvious. Unlike office environments, homes are not specifically designed for work, increasing the likelihood of ergonomic issues, manual handling injuries, and mental health challenges.
Employers remain responsible for ensuring employees have a safe work environment, even when working remotely. Understanding the key risks of working from home and how to mitigate them is necessary for both businesses and employees.
1. Unsuitable Workstation Setup
An improper workstation is one of the leading causes of discomfort for remote workers. Many employees start by working from couches, dining tables, or poorly adjusted desks, leading to neck or back pain.
Key Ergonomic Guidelines for a Home Office
- Use a desk and chair that provide adequate support and legroom.
- Ensure the monitor is at eye level to reduce neck strain.
- Position the keyboard and mouse correctly to avoid wrist pain.
- Keep feet flat on the floor or use a footrest for proper posture.
- Avoid screen glare by positioning your monitor away from direct light sources.
2. Slips, Trips, and Falls
Home environments often contain more hazards than traditional office spaces. These hazards can include clutter, loose cables, improperly arranged furniture, and even factors like pets, which may not be immediately obvious but can still pose significant risks.
One notable case from South Australia highlights the importance of considering the entire home environment, including pet-related hazards. A woman was injured when she tripped over a puppy fence she had installed during her “authorised coffee break”. She broke her arm and injured her knee, despite having created the hazard herself. The injury was ultimately deemed compensable by Workers Compensation, underscoring the fact that employers need to consider all aspects of a worker’s home environment – including pet care – when it comes to workplace safety.
How to Reduce Trip and Fall Risks at Home
- Keep walking paths clear by removing unnecessary clutter.
- Use cord management solutions to keep cables and chargers tidy.
- Secure rugs, mats, and even pet fences that may cause slips or trips.
- Avoid carrying too many items at once, especially on stairs.
- Always use handrails when walking up or down steps.
Employers should remind remote workers to apply the same safety precautions at home as they would in a workplace setting.
3. Improper Manual Handling
Many employees don’t realise that lifting, pushing, or carrying items incorrectly at home can lead to workplace injuries. Setting up a home office often requires moving furniture, carrying equipment, and handling deliveries—all of which can result in strains, sprains, and back injuries.
Safe Manual Handling Practices
- Break heavy loads into smaller, manageable parts.
- Store frequently used items at waist height to reduce unnecessary bending.
- If lifting is required regularly, request ergonomic solutions from your employer.
Even small changes in posture, lifting techniques, and storage solutions can make a big difference in reducing manual handling risks.
4. Overworking and Poor Work-Life Balance
Remote work can blur the boundaries between professional and personal life, leading to longer work hours, fewer breaks, and burnout. Studies show that taking breaks while working remotely has a positive effect on overall wellbeing, including reduced stress and increased flexibility.
How to Maintain a Healthy Work Routine
- Take a lunch break every day to reset and refocus.
- Stand up and stretch every hour to prevent stiffness and circulation issues.
- Set a clear end-of-day routine—turn off work notifications and step away from your desk.
- Use “Do Not Disturb” settings to limit after-hours work interruptions.
A structured approach to breaks, screen time, and work hours can prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being.
5. Loneliness and Mental Health Challenges
Isolation from colleagues can take a psychological toll, leading to reduced motivation, stress, and even depression. Some employees thrive in solitude, while others struggle with the lack of social interaction and collaboration.
How to Stay Connected While Working Remotely
- Schedule regular video calls for work updates and social check-ins.
- Use collaboration tools to stay engaged with team members.
- Take breaks to step outside, get fresh air, and maintain work-life balance.
- Reach out to colleagues or employee assistance programs if struggling with stress or anxiety.
For organisations concerned about remote employee well-being, Phoenix Occupational Medicine offers mental health support strategies to help businesses address remote work stress and engagement.
Mitigating Remote Work Risks for a Safer, Healthier Workforce
Employers must prioritise work-from-home risk assessments to ensure employees have safe and productive home environments. While remote work provides flexibility, it should not come at the expense of health and safety.If you are an employer looking to improve home workplace safety, contact Phoenix Occupational Medicine for expert guidance on ergonomic assessments, mental health strategies, and occupational safety policies.
