Home working – your health and safety

You're a home worker if you permanently work from your home or split your working time between the workplace and home (sometimes called hybrid working).

What your employer must do

Your employer has the same health and safety responsibilities for you whether you are working at home or in a workplace.

Our guidance for employers explains what they should do to protect you as a home worker.

What you must do

Like any worker, you must take care of your own health and safety and that of others who may be harmed by your actions while you are working.

You must cooperate with your employers and other workers to help everyone meet their duties under the law.

Find out if health and safety law applies to you if you're self-employed.

Stress and mental health

There are some things you can do to help prevent stress and look after your mental health when working from home.

  • Stay in regular contact with your manager and colleagues
  • Talk to your manager about workloads and be open about how you’re feeling
  • Take regular breaks during the day and use your annual leave
  • Set and stick to a routine – don’t revisit your computer outside your regular hours
  • Check your employer’s ‘working from home’ policies and how to get help if you need it

If you think your work is affecting your mental health or wellbeing, you could also contact your doctor, or your employee assistance provider or occupational health provider if you have one.

Working on a computer

You should take simple steps to protect your health when working on a computer. We have a video and practical tips on good posture.

Try to find a suitable area to work in, avoiding uncomfortable positions and making sure you move around regularly. 

If your workstation assessment shows you need extra DSE equipment, your employer cannot charge you for this.

Your work environment

Wherever you work in your home, there are some things you can do to keep yourself healthy and safe:

  • arrange equipment and furniture to avoid trailing leads and cables
  • check that your plugs, leads, wires and cables are in good condition
  • keep your work area tidy and free from obstructions that could cause slips or trips
  • check you have adequate lighting in your work area to avoid eyestrain

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