The coronavirus pandemic set into motion a shift to remote and hybrid work that is helping to reshape the landscape of the American workplace. Remote work opportunities across the country leapt from under 4% of all jobs before the pandemic to about 9% at the end of 2020, to more than 15% today.

One major difference between working from home and working in an office is that each employee is responsible for the safety and security of his or her at-home office. Each year, the second full week of January is designated as Home Office Safety and Security Week, a time to encourage remote workers to evaluate the security of their respective work environments.

Some recommended best practices include:

• Make sure your home office has a fire extinguisher and functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Create a fire escape plan in case of emergency.
• Invest in power strips to reduce cord clutter. Leaving numerous cords strewn across your home office can make you vulnerable to fires and falls.
• Practice proper ergonomic posture throughout the workday.
• Stand up and stretch periodically. This can help limit pain or discomfort and as well as keep you alert. The National Institutes of Health shares a handy guide on healthy stretches to do while working.
• When working with sensitive information, be sure files are stored in a locked drawer or cabinet. Sensitive business documents should be shredded or disposed of properly.
• Work with your IT department to ensure you have virus software installed on your computer. Change passwords frequently to help prevent data breach. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security offers a wealth of helpful cybersecurity tips.
• Regularly back up your data up in case of accidental deletion or ransomware attacks.
• Ensure that you have the proper homeowner’s insurance coverage to protect your home office.

Looking forward, signs indicate that hybrid and remote work environments will remain the new norm of the workforce. By implementing these tips, you can help ensure that you maintain a safe and secure workplace when working from home. For more information on telework best practices including a handy safety checklist, visit the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s informational website.

Did you know Amerisure offers a hybrid work environment and many remote positions? Check them all out at our Careers page.