An alternative to physical commuting, telecommuting allows employees to work from home or from another remote location via technology. Also called "teleworking," this option took precedence during the Covid pandemic and has continued to be implemented by many employers, often through a hybrid in-office/telework policy. Employers have come to recognize offering some type of telework option has become a very useful tool to attract and retain employees.
By instituting or continuing a telecommuting policy, companies not only help reduce single occupancy vehicle (SOV) travel to the work site, they can also save on office space and overhead. And employers can gain in productivity: studies have shown that employees who telecommute even a few days a week are more likely to fulfill their workday time commitments and take fewer sick days.
As you probably already know, even if your business is open and conducive to telecommuting, not every employee may be able to take advantage of this option. Companies must determine which positions and which employees are eligible, as well as how frequently each employee can exercise this option (e.g. one or more full days a week or a few days a month).
Special considerations include:
- Job Function: Is the employee needed "in person" to accomplish his/her responsibilities?
- Personal Interaction: Can the employee interact effectively with others remotely?
- Employee Skills: Can the employee handle operating the required equipment or software independently?
- Supervision: Does the employee require direct, in-person supervision in his/her duties?
- Accommodations: Can the employee's home accommodate the necessary workspace? Will they have a separate area to work?
- Budget: How will this affect your company's bottom line insurance coverage and costs?
Once it is determined who can participate, the employer may select a consultant to plan and/or implement the program; a webinar on telework basics can be found here. Your TripSmart PA contact can also help guide you through the process to get your telecommuting program up and running successfully or improve your existing policies and arrangements.