Creating Company Policies for Telework

By Cotney Construction Law.

When COVID-19 emerged as a new virus, workplaces realized they would need to shift their business to remote work.

Although some businesses may have returned to their normal office routine, many realized that working from home is a feasible option. Some companies have even announced an option for their employees to work from home forever, while others have staggered their office shifts paired with part-time remote work.

If a construction company has employees who can do their job at home, this may be the best option until we are able to manage the spread of COVID-19. Telework can reduce work-related liability or exposure claims. It can also enhance the technical aspects of your operations with less overhead costs.

In order to create a viable work from home option, construction businesses need to first implement several necessary steps. Although it may take time to adopt policies to protect company assets and manage operations remotely, it may be the best option for your business as remote work can help curb the spread of COVID-19 and minimize your company’s liability.

Choosing a system that works for your business

There is no one-size-fits-all approach for how to handle policies regarding telework. Whether your company elects telework as an option or reopens the office, there are a few critical items to consider:

• If employers elect to have their employees return to an office setting, they should keep a close eye on the local, state and national guidelines for reopening the office.

• Monitor the latest instructions of public health organizations like the CDC and OSHA.

• Make sure they have a checklist and reach out to a construction lawyer to review the company handbook and policies for both telework and reopening the office that protect their business.

• Ensure that their telework policy is clear and consistent. If an employee feels that a similarly situated employee is receiving preferential treatment, this can create liability issues for an employer, including a discrimination claim.

Legal issues with telework

When you work with a lawyer to develop a telework policy at your place of business, they will focus on a variety of legal areas related to telework, including:

• Wage & hour laws

• Time tracking

• Company resources

• Eligibility requirements

• Employer’s liability

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Contact Cotney Construction Law for additional information.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.