9 Must-Know Workplace Safety Tips for Remote Teams

A few years ago no one could imagine that remote work would be possible for so many types of jobs. Today, many people are lucky to have the freedom to work from wherever they feel comfortable. This flexibility is the biggest benefit of working remotely, but there is so much more.

Although remote work gives you the possibility to work from the comfort of your home, many remote workers have embraced coworking spaces as ideal places for productivity. Spaces like that provide a creative atmosphere and essential resources, but that doesn’t mean that safety can be overlooked. Staying protected while working remotely is as crucial as for people who are working from their offices. 

If you are a remote worker and you are not so familiar with workplace safety, here are nine essential tips for remote teams.

1. Choose a Safe and Reliable Workspace

With the expansion of remote workers in a short period of time many coworking spaces have started to work, but not all of them are the same. When it comes to safety, there are things you need to check before you choose a convenient coworking space for you.

Make sure that the workspace you are considering using has proper safety measures, from secure entrances, and fire safety systems, to well-lit surroundings. Also, make sure that the space is compliant with local safety regulations.

2. Maintain Good Ergonomics

If you are going to spend hours in a coworking place, you need to make sure that you are going to feel comfortable there. Ensure that your workplace has adjustable desks and chairs to maintain proper posture. 

3. Secure Your Devices

If you work in a public or shared space it is harder to protect your work information from unknown people, but it is manageable. You need to use a strong password and enable two-factor authentication. You can also consider a privacy screen to prevent unauthorized access to your information. Of course, if your work is not information-sensitive, you don’t need to use all of these secure measures.

4. Stay Aware of Emergency Exits and Protocols

Before you settle into a co-working place you should be familiarized with evaluation routes and procedures in case of an emergency. Also, take note of the emergency exits and all safety protocols. This is not just a boring part someone asks you to learn, it can be crucial for your safety if any emergency happens.

5. Understand Workers’ Compensation Rights

When it comes to workplace injuries, remote workers may face unique challenges. Workers using co-working spaces in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago should be aware of their rights under local labor laws.

If you take Chicago and NYC as a reference point, you’ll quickly realize that the coverage requirements differ. According to Reuters, in NYC most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance (workers employed less than 40 hours per week are an exception). In Chicago, all employers must provide compensation insurance for all their workers (without exception). 

The waiting period for benefits is also different across cities. In Chicago, you have a 3-day waiting period with a retroactive period of 2 weeks, while in New York City, there’s a 7-day waiting period.

When it comes to the maximum weekly benefit, in Chicago it’s determined based on the employee’s average weekly wage (subject to state-specific maximum limits), while in the Big Apple, the max benefit is two-thirds of the weekly wage.

So, as you can see, when it comes to workers’ insurance and compensation, there might be huge differences across different cities and states.

Like any other worker, if you have an injury that happened while you were working, you might need legal assistance to claim compensation.

So, if you’re based in Chicago (Illinois), consulting a workers’ compensation lawyer in Chicago can be very helpful. A specialized attorney can help you navigate the claims process. You need to know your rights which are different from state to state to ensure you remain protected regardless of where you are working.

Similarly, remote workers in Oklahoma City should be aware that local laws and available legal support may differ from what is offered in other cities. If you face a workplace injury while residing or working remotely in OKC, it can be valuable to consult with injury lawyers in OKC who are experienced with personal injury cases specific to the area. These professionals can help ensure you understand your rights, recognize the types of compensation available under Oklahoma law, and provide guidance through any claims process unique to Oklahoma City.

6. Prioritize Cybersecurity

Cyberattacks are now a bigger danger than ever, and for workers like remote workers, who are relying heavily on digital communication, it is essential to protect their computers from it. If you are not sure what you can do, here are a few simple steps that should be very helpful. Use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. You should also keep your software up to date to reduce vulnerability. Always follow your company’s cybersecurity guidelines.

7. Take Regular Breaks to Prevent Fatigue

Physical and mental fatigue is something you want to avoid, for sure. And the best way to do so is to take one simple preventive measure. Plan a few short breaks throughout your day to rest your eyes, stretch, drink coffee, or whatever you need to recharge. This habit is also great for productivity because some studies show that workers with regular breaks are more productive than workers with one or none.

8. Keep Your Belongings Safe

Shared spaces have their pros and cons. One of the less appealing facts is that in that kind of environment, it is more difficult to keep your belongings safe. But, that doesn’t mean that it is not possible to be sure that your things are protected. You can find coworking spaces with lockers and store your belongings that you don’t use for work. Also, it would be wise not to leave valuable items unattended.

9. Know When to Seek Help

You should get familiarized with the co-working space’s staff and what are their roles in ensuring safety. Also make sure that your emergency contact numbers are handy (medical, police, legal, and other help services).

Conclusion

Safety should be a priority for every worker and it is not divided between office and remote workers. It doesn’t matter if you’re working from your home, a coffee shop, or a coworking space, your safety is always a priority. If you follow all mentioned workplace safety tips, you can ensure a safer remote working experience.