Hybrid working is now the preference of nearly three-quarters of knowledge-based workers in Australia, with enhanced productivity being the key reason cited for this shift. However, while the flexibility that hybrid work offers is appealing, it also brings health and safety concerns that employees often overlook, leading to a rise in claims.

In a hybrid work environment, the traditional boundaries of the workplace extend into employees' homes. This shift complicates the determination of work-related injuries or illnesses, especially during remote work, ultimately exacerbating workers' compensation claims.

Understanding the complexities employers face in managing these claims is essential. Therefore, prioritizing wellness initiatives and ensuring safety for hybrid workers is imperative.

In a hybrid work environment, the traditional boundaries of the workplace extend into employees' homes. This shift makes determining work-related injuries or illnesses challenging, especially during remote work, aggravating workers' compensation claims.

We are aware of the complexities employers face in managing such claims, making it necessary to prioritise wellness challenges and ensure safety for hybrid workers.

Health and Safety Concerns in a Hybrid Work Model

Unlike dedicated office spaces, home setups may lack the ergonomic furniture and equipment necessary for comfortable working. As a result, musculoskeletal disorders are becoming increasingly common, as employees often work from non-ergonomic arrangements.

Additionally, recent studies indicate that 31% of employees report feeling more stressed and burnt out while working in a hybrid model. Many also frequently experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, making mental health another significant concern in this work environment. The rise in mental health claims in recent years has prompted regulators to emphasize the importance of psychological safety in workplaces.

Fatigue is another prevalent issue among hybrid workers, often caused by work extending beyond designated hours. Many employees struggle with concentration, experience blurred vision or impaired visual perception, and find themselves yearning for more sleep on their days off.

The Impact on Return-to-Work for Hybrid Workers

The health impacts of hybrid work extend to those returning to the workplace. Many employees resist the prospect of hectic commutes and offices with poor air quality. Therefore, employers must understand their workers' emotional needs and concerns to determine where support is required.

Organisations relying on skill-based labour must be particularly cautious when managing injured employees. These challenges complicate the return-to-work process and the management of workers’ compensation claims.

Claims for workers' compensation in a hybrid work model present unique challenges. Determining whether an injury occurred during work hours or in a work-related context can be difficult when employees operate from various locations. Moreover, a decentralised workforce can hinder an employer’s compliance with state and federal regulations, such as those outlined by Safe Work Australia.

Improving Workplace Health and Safety

Under Australian law, employers have a 'duty of care' to ensure the health and safety of their employees, regardless of where they work. Therefore, it is essential for employers to establish a balance between remote and in-office work to facilitate a smoother recovery and reintegration of injured employees returning to work.

Here are some key strategies to improve health and safety for hybrid workers:

1. Clear Communication and Regular Check-Ins

Establish and maintain open lines of communication with your employees, actively listening to their feedback. Regular check-ins should address their specific needs and the nature of their work.

  1. Detailed Record-Keeping and Prompt Injury Reporting

Maintain detailed records of employee work locations and encourage prompt reporting of injuries to manage claims effectively. These practices ensure compliance with legal requirements while also identifying and preventing future incidents.

  1. Robust Procedures and Workplace Apps

Implement clear procedures regarding employee work arrangements to ensure all staff understand their responsibilities and the correct protocols. Utilise workplace apps to enhance team engagement and collaboration, streamlining workflows and boosting motivation.

  1. Home-Working Risk Assessments

Conduct regular risk assessments for home work setups and advise employees on ergonomic office equipment to prevent musculoskeletal issues. Provide tips on maintaining good posture and encourage regular breaks to stay physically active. Remind employees to rest and recharge during challenging work tasks to mitigate fatigue and enhance productivity.

  1. Wellbeing Programs

Prioritise Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and health support services to promote work-life balance. Implement virtual wellbeing initiatives, such as mindfulness sessions, fitness or yoga classes, and stress management workshops, to support employees' physical and mental health.

  1. Community Building

Foster an inclusive environment by investing in better workplace design that promotes community or a cultural hub approach. Create a sense of belonging by redesigning common areas, adding recreational spaces, and conducting team-building exercises.

  1. Monitor Working Conditions

Ensure a safe and comfortable working environment. Consider installing sensors to monitor office occupancy levels and environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and air quality. Real-time data from these devices can help maintain optimal working conditions and manage the workspace efficiently.

8. Optimising Claims Management Through Experienced Partnerships

Effectively managing workers’ compensation claims directly impacts the health and recovery of injured employees and the overall costs incurred by employers. By collaborating with experts, such as Gallagher Bassett, organisations can streamline their claims management processes, prioritising exceptional patient care while reducing claims costs and premiums.

Across Australia, Gallagher Bassett has built strong partnerships with employers to implement customised claims solutions that enhance return-to-work performance.

From the first report of an injury to the successful closure of a claim, implementing comprehensive risk management strategies is crucial for improving staff health and safety, preventing injuries, and ensuring employees receive the right care at the right time.

Contact us to learn how Gallagher Bassett can support you.

 

Sources

I Changing Places: How hybrid working is rewriting the rule book. PwC Australia.

II Balancing Act – The New Equation in hybrid working. PwC Australia.

III Latest Australian workers’ compensation statistics published. Safe Work Australia (05 December 2022).