Teleworking and its challenges: focus on comfort and well-being
Complete guide to teleworking in Portugal. Learn how to prevent ergonomic and psychosocial risks, adapt your home workstation and comply with occupational health and safety guidelines.
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Teleworking is a working arrangement that, through the use of information and communication technologies (ICT), allows employees to carry out their professional activity from their home, without the need to travel to the company's premises.
Although teleworking in Portugal has grown considerably in recent years, especially in response to specific contexts, it is crucial to understand its challenges. Adapting to this arrangement, which is sometimes sudden, can expose workers to new risk situations, in particular ergonomic and psychosocial risks.
Despite being an effective tool for the continuity of professional activity and, in certain circumstances, fundamental for the protection of public health, moving the office to the home requires the adoption of appropriate preventive measures.
The reality of teleworking in Portugal
In Portugal, the legal framework for teleworking is provided for in the Labour Code, namely in Article 131 of the Portuguese Labour Code et seq. This regime establishes the rights and duties of employers and workers, aiming to ensure decent working conditions and protect the health and safety of those working remotely.
Despite the growing uptake, the percentage of teleworkers in our country may still be lower than in other European Union Member States, where the practice was already more consolidated. However, exceptional situations demonstrate its relevance and the need for correct adaptation.
Ergonomic and psychosocial risks in teleworking
When it comes to teleworking, it is essential to address the inherent risks to the health and well-being of employees:
- Ergonomic risks: These arise from the inadequacy of the workstation at home. The absence of an ergonomic chair, poor posture, or the prolonged use of equipment without proper support can lead to musculoskeletal pain, repetitive strain injuries, and visual fatigue.
- Psychosocial risks: These can arise due to isolation, difficulty in separating personal and professional life, work overload, or a lack of support. These factors contribute to stress, anxiety, and burnout.
Essential preventive measures for teleworkers
To minimise the risks associated with teleworking, it is crucial to adopt a proactive approach. Companies must ensure:
- Assessment and adaptation of the workstation: It is the employer's responsibility to ensure that the teleworking location complies with health and safety requirements, in accordance with the Labour Code. This may involve guidance on the suitability of furniture, lighting, and ventilation.
- Appropriate equipment: The provision of ergonomic equipment and training for its correct use are fundamental.
- Promotion of active breaks: Encouraging the worker to take regular breaks, with stretching exercises and changes of posture.
- Regular and clear communication: Maintaining open communication channels to prevent isolation and ensure the necessary support.
- Setting boundaries: Helping to manage workload, respect rest periods, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Conclusion
Teleworking, when well managed, offers numerous advantages. However, its success largely depends on the ability to anticipate and mitigate risks. By focusing on ergonomics and psychosocial well-being, companies and workers can enjoy the benefits of this arrangement, ensuring a productive and healthy working environment, in strict compliance with Portuguese legislation.