Advice for Offices - Returning to Work

Published: 21 May 2020

The overall guidance remains that employers must take necessary steps for all employees to be able to work from home, and working from home should be promoted where possible.

In light of the move towards a medium term response, it is recognised that the effective operation over a sustained period might require some further onsite presence and businesses may wish to start considering how to phase back some of the roles which are currently being performed remotely.

This guidance is intended to enable businesses to decide on the best course of action in returning employees to an office environment.

It is important to note that while restrictions are being lifted, this does not mean mandating a return and employers should consider a number of factors when planning their return. While some employees may be coping well with remote working, others may welcome a return to an office environment and consideration must be taken into account of employee attitudes and caring responsibilities as well as consideration of operational issues that will be alleviated through a return.