Since remote work is now an established long-term norm for many businesses, organizations need to take a proactive approach to keeping their remote teams safe. Safety goes beyond cybersecurity—it also includes physical and emotional well-being. Here’s how you can ensure your remote workforce stays protected, productive, and supported.
1. Prioritize Cybersecurity
When employees work from home or other locations, your company’s data is more vulnerable. Employee data entered on work devices, including their very own personal information, can also be at risk, which impacts them directly. Protect it all with these key measures:
- Use VPNs: Require a virtual private network to encrypt all online activity.
- Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Protect logins across tools and platforms.
- Educate on Phishing: Regularly train employees to spot and report phishing scams.
- Install Antivirus Software: Provide or require reliable endpoint protection on all devices.
2. Protect Home Workspaces
While remote work reduces or eliminates certain office hazards, others still persist, including:
- Ergonomic Setup: Offer guidance or stipends for ergonomic chairs, desks, and monitor stands.
- Electrical Safety: Remind employees to avoid overloading outlets and secure cords to prevent trips or fires.
- Secure Physical Devices: Encourage workers to lock laptops when not in use and keep sensitive materials stored safely.
3. Promote Mental Health
Isolation and burnout can take a toll on remote workers. This can be difficult to detect in employees as mental health issues can be hidden. Support mental well-being with:
- Regular Check-ins: Schedule weekly one-on-ones to maintain connection and address concerns.
- Mental Health Resources: Provide access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or mental health apps.
- Clear Boundaries: Encourage employees to set work-life boundaries, including defined working hours.
4. Ensure Emergency Preparedness
Not all remote environments are equally prepared for emergencies. It’s important to make sure the employees are aware of how to navigate emergencies related to their home environment or region. Provide guidance for:
- Fire Safety: Check smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and evacuation plans at home.
- Natural Disaster Plans: Tailor safety plans based on local risks (e.g., hurricanes, earthquakes).
- Emergency Contacts: Keep updated emergency contacts and health information for all employees.
5. Foster a Culture of Safety
Safety isn’t just about policies—it’s about people. This includes not just co-worker and customer interactions, but also those in an employee’s personal circle and how those relationships can impact a person’s day-to-day.
- Encourage Reporting: Create a non-punitive environment for reporting safety or security concerns.
- Train Managers: Help leaders recognize signs of stress, burnout, or unsafe environments due to issues such as domestic violence.
- Evaluate Regularly: Conduct periodic reviews of remote work setups and policies to ensure they’re still effective.
Educate Your Employees on Safety Measures via Assigned Workplace Training
Keeping remote workers safe requires a holistic approach. By protecting their digital and physical environments and supporting their mental health, you’re not just checking boxes—you’re building a more resilient, loyal, and high-performing team. Workplace training can play a critical role in keeping remote employees safe by addressing various aspects of their work environment. Learn about the impact that EVERFI’s health and safety courses can have on not just remote workers, but all employees, here.