Work From Home Risk Assessment
A Work From Home Risk Assessment is essential for protecting employee health and ensuring legal compliance when staff work remotely. Under UK health and safety legislation, employers have the same duty of care for home workers as they do for office-based staff. A structured assessment helps identify hazards, reduce risk, and support long-term wellbeing.
Remote working can increase the likelihood of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), eye strain, and fatigue if workstations are poorly set up. A proper home working risk assessment reviews the employee’s desk, chair, screen height, keyboard and mouse use, and overall posture. Screens should be positioned at eye level, chairs should provide adequate lumbar support, and desks should allow the forearms to rest comfortably while typing.
Environmental factors are also assessed. Lighting should be sufficient to prevent glare and visual strain, while room temperature and ventilation should promote concentration and comfort. Electrical safety is another key consideration, including cable management and the safe use of extension leads to reduce trip and fire risks. Online Homeworking Lockdown
A Work From Home Risk Assessment should also address Display Screen Equipment (DSE) risks. Prolonged screen use without breaks can contribute to headaches, dry eyes, and shoulder tension. Employees should be encouraged to follow good DSE practices, including taking regular screen breaks, adjusting brightness and contrast, and varying tasks throughout the day.
Mental wellbeing forms an important part of home working risk management. Isolation, reduced movement, and blurred work-life boundaries can affect stress levels and productivity. Employers should promote clear working hours, regular communication, and access to support where needed. Identifying these risks early helps prevent longer-term health issues and improves engagement.
Many organisations now use remote workstation assessments and digital self-assessment tools to evaluate home working setups. These allow employees to submit photos and measurements of their workspace, which trained assessors can review and provide tailored recommendations. This approach is cost-effective, scalable, and suitable for hybrid and fully remote teams.
Carrying out regular Work From Home Risk Assessments demonstrates a commitment to employee wellbeing while helping businesses meet their legal obligations. It reduces the risk of injury, supports productivity, and creates a safer, healthier remote working environment. As flexible working continues to grow, home working risk assessments are no longer optional – they are a vital part of modern workplace health and safety.