Telecommuters pose added risks for employers

The case of the New Jersey employee who died after working in her home raises questions about off-site workers. The court awarded workers' comp death benefits to the spouse of a worker who suffered a pulmonary embolism after sitting at her desk for hours despite other health risk factors.

"It brings to mind the role ergonomic assessments can play in home offices," said Sherri Hickey, director of medical management for Safety National. If possible, Hickey suggests sending an ergonomist to the worker's home to set up the workstation, something that can be invaluable.

"Not just for the desk," said Mark Noonan, managing principal for casualty at Integro Insurance Brokers. "Are there smoke detectors? Are there electric cords all over that you can trip over? Do they have a fire extinguisher?"

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Noonan suggests employers have a written policy for telecommuters "so everybody knows what the rules are," he said.

August 1, 2011

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